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Rags to Riches #3
You for Christmas
Regan Case wouldn’t know the right side of the tracks if they ran her out of town. She’s lived hard since she ran away at sixteen, but eight years later, an accident has terrified her into pulling her life together. And that means finally going home for Christmas.
Taking her return one step at a time, she ends up on the doorstep of her sister’s best friend, Felix Nickson. The man indebted to her after she jammed ten grand down his trousers in high school and enabled him to escape his own demons. Felix agrees to let her stay, but doesn’t count on the chemistry that burns hot between them.
As they get into the Christmas spirit, he watches Regan’s shadows fade away and discovers that beneath her careless attitude, she is by far the bravest woman he’s ever met. He falls for her, fast and hard, but she fears she doesn’t deserve such a good man. A black sheep cannot change her colors.
Can Felix forgive her past or would asking for his love be one too many miracles this Christmas?
Taking her return one step at a time, she ends up on the doorstep of her sister’s best friend, Felix Nickson. The man indebted to her after she jammed ten grand down his trousers in high school and enabled him to escape his own demons. Felix agrees to let her stay, but doesn’t count on the chemistry that burns hot between them.
As they get into the Christmas spirit, he watches Regan’s shadows fade away and discovers that beneath her careless attitude, she is by far the bravest woman he’s ever met. He falls for her, fast and hard, but she fears she doesn’t deserve such a good man. A black sheep cannot change her colors.
Can Felix forgive her past or would asking for his love be one too many miracles this Christmas?
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Published October 29, 2015
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About the author
Madeline Ash
16 books254 followersMadeline Ash is an Australian contemporary romance author and a two-time RITA Award finalist. She writes novels with sensitivity, humour, and heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
December 20, 2016
As a teenager Felix Nickson didn't have the best home life and had been planning on leaving home as soon as he graduated high school. When Regan Case, the younger sister of Felix's best friend, approached Felix just as he was about to leave home she pushed a proposal on him that Felix couldn't refuse. Giving Felix ten thousand dollars to get his new life started all Regan wanted in return was for Felix to take her sister with him and protect her and for Felix to share one kiss with Regan before he left.
Now, eight years after that day that Regan helped change Felix's life Regan has returned to town and asked for a place to stay but not to let her sister know she was back. Regan herself had ran that night from horrors in her home that only she knew but she had also stolen the money to help Felix and to gain her own freedom. Not knowing whether he should trust her but knowing he owed her a debt from before Felix agrees to let Regan stay for the holidays but before they know it that small spark started from a kiss eight years before begins to grown.
You for Christmas is the third book in the Rags to Riches series by Madeline Ash. Each book in the series features a new couple so it is not necessary to have read the other books to enjoy this story as it reads fine as a standalone novel.
The one thing that I enjoy the most with a story such as this one is that there is some kind of history with the characters to explain a more fast forward type of relationship. The story was quite the emotional one with both characters back stories involved where each had a touch time growing up and things they needed to escape from. The book is fairly short so things move rather quickly between Felix and Regan but since they had grown up together and both had their own demons the pair fit rather nicely and the more rushed nature makes more sense.
Overall, a fast pace emotional holiday romance between two somewhat flawed characters who had escaped their pasts.
I received an a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
Now, eight years after that day that Regan helped change Felix's life Regan has returned to town and asked for a place to stay but not to let her sister know she was back. Regan herself had ran that night from horrors in her home that only she knew but she had also stolen the money to help Felix and to gain her own freedom. Not knowing whether he should trust her but knowing he owed her a debt from before Felix agrees to let Regan stay for the holidays but before they know it that small spark started from a kiss eight years before begins to grown.
You for Christmas is the third book in the Rags to Riches series by Madeline Ash. Each book in the series features a new couple so it is not necessary to have read the other books to enjoy this story as it reads fine as a standalone novel.
The one thing that I enjoy the most with a story such as this one is that there is some kind of history with the characters to explain a more fast forward type of relationship. The story was quite the emotional one with both characters back stories involved where each had a touch time growing up and things they needed to escape from. The book is fairly short so things move rather quickly between Felix and Regan but since they had grown up together and both had their own demons the pair fit rather nicely and the more rushed nature makes more sense.
Overall, a fast pace emotional holiday romance between two somewhat flawed characters who had escaped their pasts.
I received an a copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
November 26, 2015
What an amazing, emotional, moving festive story this is!
Regan Case had been in foster care for years. When she was sixteen she gave money to help the boy next door, Felix Nickson, leave his abusive father and asked him to make sure he took her sister with him, then she ran away herself. Eight years later she’s had an accident which has made her reevaluate her life and made her want to reconnect with him and her sister so she’s travelled from Canada back to Melbourne. Once there she finds out where Felix now lives and knocks on the door of his apartment. . . .
Regan has been traumatised by events in her teen years, she’s learnt to protect herself and her feelings by building a fortress around her heart. She comes over as fierce, wild, self reliant, independent and a loner, but that’s only an act and the accident has started demolishing some of those walls. Felix is the only person in the world who owes her, knows she’s soft beneath those barricades and that her serious attitude problems are really just an act to protect herself. She wants to change so seeks his help . . . . even though she’s uncertain she dare reconnect with her sister as that will mean revealing why she ran.
The story has some very emotional scenarios in it, written so well it is easy to empathise with the characters and feel their angst and turmoil. It definitely has a dark subscript, though the reason isn’t discovered till near the end (and I’m not spoiling it by telling that here) and despite that it is still a positive story, showing that despite past events, love can find a way to help heal - especially when mixed with some hope, festive magic, family love and self acceptance. It is good to reconnect with some characters from earlier novels by this author, especially Dee and Jed from ‘Her Secret Prince’. It is a brilliant story that I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
Regan Case had been in foster care for years. When she was sixteen she gave money to help the boy next door, Felix Nickson, leave his abusive father and asked him to make sure he took her sister with him, then she ran away herself. Eight years later she’s had an accident which has made her reevaluate her life and made her want to reconnect with him and her sister so she’s travelled from Canada back to Melbourne. Once there she finds out where Felix now lives and knocks on the door of his apartment. . . .
Regan has been traumatised by events in her teen years, she’s learnt to protect herself and her feelings by building a fortress around her heart. She comes over as fierce, wild, self reliant, independent and a loner, but that’s only an act and the accident has started demolishing some of those walls. Felix is the only person in the world who owes her, knows she’s soft beneath those barricades and that her serious attitude problems are really just an act to protect herself. She wants to change so seeks his help . . . . even though she’s uncertain she dare reconnect with her sister as that will mean revealing why she ran.
The story has some very emotional scenarios in it, written so well it is easy to empathise with the characters and feel their angst and turmoil. It definitely has a dark subscript, though the reason isn’t discovered till near the end (and I’m not spoiling it by telling that here) and despite that it is still a positive story, showing that despite past events, love can find a way to help heal - especially when mixed with some hope, festive magic, family love and self acceptance. It is good to reconnect with some characters from earlier novels by this author, especially Dee and Jed from ‘Her Secret Prince’. It is a brilliant story that I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley, too, for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for this, an honest review.
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December 14, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (12/14/2018)!💝
December 29, 2018
*** 4.5 Stars***
This is a new-to-me author and I really enjoyed this book. I thought the story was quite lovely.
Regan Case seems like your typical bad girl. She's lived a hard life since she ran away from home at the age of sixteen which was eight years ago. She decides it's time to return home, turn her life around and make amends with the sister she hasn't seen in eight years, the sister she ran away to protect.
Regan has no one and as she plans her trip back home there is only one person who comes to mind, that may be wiling to help her, Felix Nickson, her sister's best friend. Felix was seriously abused by his father because he was a computer nerd instead of a football muscle-man player. When Regan found out that Felix was running away after graduation and not planning to return as long as his father was alive she devises a plan. She gives him $10,000 and begs him to take her sister with him since they were best friends. She is doing this to protect her older sister from the horrors that she, herself, has faced living with a foster family.
I have to say that Felix is one of the best heroes I have read about and I loved how he loved Regan! Swoonworthy!
This is a safe read.
This is a new-to-me author and I really enjoyed this book. I thought the story was quite lovely.
Regan Case seems like your typical bad girl. She's lived a hard life since she ran away from home at the age of sixteen which was eight years ago. She decides it's time to return home, turn her life around and make amends with the sister she hasn't seen in eight years, the sister she ran away to protect.
Regan has no one and as she plans her trip back home there is only one person who comes to mind, that may be wiling to help her, Felix Nickson, her sister's best friend. Felix was seriously abused by his father because he was a computer nerd instead of a football muscle-man player. When Regan found out that Felix was running away after graduation and not planning to return as long as his father was alive she devises a plan. She gives him $10,000 and begs him to take her sister with him since they were best friends. She is doing this to protect her older sister from the horrors that she, herself, has faced living with a foster family.
I have to say that Felix is one of the best heroes I have read about and I loved how he loved Regan! Swoonworthy!
This is a safe read.
October 16, 2021
https://celebrityreaders.com/2015/12/...
4.5 stars — OK, this one turned out to be a total Christmas gem!! I had no expectations going into it, had never even heard of this author — just saw it on BookBub or something like that. And it’s turned into one of my fave holiday reads this year!
This isn’t just some fluffy romance read either. There are some dark issues that are dealt with, though you don’t find out exactly what happened until near the end of the book. I thought Regan was written beautifully…you could really tell that she was struggling with something horrible in her past that had shaped her into the woman she became…and she was a very broken and troubled young woman. Sometimes her rough edges were hard to handle, especially b/c you end up falling in total love with Felix (we’ll get to him), but in the end, from my completely inexperienced perspective, I thought she was portrayed and behaved exactly as someone with those past demons would.
Now onto the shining star of this book — FELIX!!! I fell in love with him right from the prologue, with his shyness and inexperience. He was just everything. Patient, kind, though not without a rough edge or two in the beginning. I just wanted to steal him away from Regan and hug him to death. Maybe it’s b/c I have my own geek to love, but he was just everything I love in a book boy.
And their bantering back and forth was a HIGHLIGHT for me! I absolutely love snarky wit and sassy comebacks, and the way they played off each other was delicious. Heck, even at the end there was great interaction with all the secondary characters — which of course makes me want to read some of their stories, so wishlisted.
So basically, we have a holiday winner. I even loved that it was set in Australia and you got to see how Christmas would be in their hot summer. On a side note, as a Canadian, it was a little disheartening that it was all about ice and snow…;)
https://celebrityreaders.wordpress.co...
4.5 stars — OK, this one turned out to be a total Christmas gem!! I had no expectations going into it, had never even heard of this author — just saw it on BookBub or something like that. And it’s turned into one of my fave holiday reads this year!
This isn’t just some fluffy romance read either. There are some dark issues that are dealt with, though you don’t find out exactly what happened until near the end of the book. I thought Regan was written beautifully…you could really tell that she was struggling with something horrible in her past that had shaped her into the woman she became…and she was a very broken and troubled young woman. Sometimes her rough edges were hard to handle, especially b/c you end up falling in total love with Felix (we’ll get to him), but in the end, from my completely inexperienced perspective, I thought she was portrayed and behaved exactly as someone with those past demons would.
Now onto the shining star of this book — FELIX!!! I fell in love with him right from the prologue, with his shyness and inexperience. He was just everything. Patient, kind, though not without a rough edge or two in the beginning. I just wanted to steal him away from Regan and hug him to death. Maybe it’s b/c I have my own geek to love, but he was just everything I love in a book boy.
And their bantering back and forth was a HIGHLIGHT for me! I absolutely love snarky wit and sassy comebacks, and the way they played off each other was delicious. Heck, even at the end there was great interaction with all the secondary characters — which of course makes me want to read some of their stories, so wishlisted.
So basically, we have a holiday winner. I even loved that it was set in Australia and you got to see how Christmas would be in their hot summer. On a side note, as a Canadian, it was a little disheartening that it was all about ice and snow…;)
https://celebrityreaders.wordpress.co...
February 17, 2019
Nice little story
I chose this rating because it was nice little reading,but not stratosphere incredible. It was book for passing the time,but overall not too bad 😊
I chose this rating because it was nice little reading,but not stratosphere incredible. It was book for passing the time,but overall not too bad 😊
October 12, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Regan Case wouldn’t know the right side of the tracks if they ran her out of town. She’s lived hard since she ran away at sixteen, but eight years later, an accident has terrified her into pulling her life together. And that means finally going home for Christmas.
Taking her return one step at a time, she ends up on the doorstep of her sister’s best friend, Felix Nickson. The man indebted to her after she jammed ten grand down in trousers in high school and enabled him to escape his own demons. Felix agrees to let her stay, but doesn’t count on the chemistry that burns hot between them.
As they get into the Christmas spirit, he watches Regan’s shadows fade away and discovers that beneath her careless attitude, she is by far the bravest woman he’s ever met. He falls for her, fast and hard, but she fears she doesn’t deserve such a good man. A black sheep cannot change her colors.
Can Felix forgive her past or would asking for his love be one too many miracles this Christmas?
I have read a few of Madeline Ash's stories recently and have enjoyed them all. This one is no different. I am not usually a "holiday romance" kind of reader but I picked it up on the strength of her other work.
And this was another pleasant surprise. This wasn't the usual romp through the Christmas romance aisle of the local supermarket - this story had some real heart; histories for the characters, some real emotional connection with each other; some moments of levity that keep the "festive" theme at the forefront, without letting it get too light and fluffy. But most of all, for me, it wasn't an insta-love story that we seem to get from these holiday fiction stories. These pair had history and connections that were more developed than just "caught in a snowstorm, let's have sex" kind of way.
Paul
ARH
Regan Case wouldn’t know the right side of the tracks if they ran her out of town. She’s lived hard since she ran away at sixteen, but eight years later, an accident has terrified her into pulling her life together. And that means finally going home for Christmas.
Taking her return one step at a time, she ends up on the doorstep of her sister’s best friend, Felix Nickson. The man indebted to her after she jammed ten grand down in trousers in high school and enabled him to escape his own demons. Felix agrees to let her stay, but doesn’t count on the chemistry that burns hot between them.
As they get into the Christmas spirit, he watches Regan’s shadows fade away and discovers that beneath her careless attitude, she is by far the bravest woman he’s ever met. He falls for her, fast and hard, but she fears she doesn’t deserve such a good man. A black sheep cannot change her colors.
Can Felix forgive her past or would asking for his love be one too many miracles this Christmas?
I have read a few of Madeline Ash's stories recently and have enjoyed them all. This one is no different. I am not usually a "holiday romance" kind of reader but I picked it up on the strength of her other work.
And this was another pleasant surprise. This wasn't the usual romp through the Christmas romance aisle of the local supermarket - this story had some real heart; histories for the characters, some real emotional connection with each other; some moments of levity that keep the "festive" theme at the forefront, without letting it get too light and fluffy. But most of all, for me, it wasn't an insta-love story that we seem to get from these holiday fiction stories. These pair had history and connections that were more developed than just "caught in a snowstorm, let's have sex" kind of way.
Paul
ARH
December 16, 2018
#writingskills
The writing, grammar, and editing were all excellent, which is critical to me because I notice everything. Poor skills are very distracting and bring a whole story down. I noticed a few minor glitches, but they could probably be chalked up to me being American. ;)
Now for the good stuff. The story touched something in me. I connected with the characters, even the minor characters. I haven't read the previous stories in the series, so had no basis to go on. The brief descriptions were spot on and not overly explainy. Sorry, I like making up words. The characters of Felix and, especially Regan, were complex and real and totally believable. Ms. Ash took a complex situation and story and made it flow so smoothly while capturing and holding my attention from beginning to end.
The writing, grammar, and editing were all excellent, which is critical to me because I notice everything. Poor skills are very distracting and bring a whole story down. I noticed a few minor glitches, but they could probably be chalked up to me being American. ;)
Now for the good stuff. The story touched something in me. I connected with the characters, even the minor characters. I haven't read the previous stories in the series, so had no basis to go on. The brief descriptions were spot on and not overly explainy. Sorry, I like making up words. The characters of Felix and, especially Regan, were complex and real and totally believable. Ms. Ash took a complex situation and story and made it flow so smoothly while capturing and holding my attention from beginning to end.
Read
August 8, 20234.5 stars
The 3rd novella in the Rags to Riches series.
And another gorgeous sweet and moving story by Madeline Ash.
Set in Melbourne and Byron Bay.
This time we’re following Felix and Reagan's story. Gone for 8 years Regan is finally back in Australia and lands on Felix’s doorstep.
Regan begs Felix to keep her secret from Stevie and he's not happy.
Felix the ever endearing nerdy hero.
Regan, not so likeable, she’s rough and tough and bad-mannered.
Loved the, snarky, witty banter between Felix and Regan. They are hilarious together!
Some delicate themes are covered in this book.
Always a pleasure to be reunited with the other happy couples from previous Rags to Riches books.
A romance that is smart, effective and hopeful.
Onto Stevie and Ethan's story.
The 3rd novella in the Rags to Riches series.
And another gorgeous sweet and moving story by Madeline Ash.
Set in Melbourne and Byron Bay.
This time we’re following Felix and Reagan's story. Gone for 8 years Regan is finally back in Australia and lands on Felix’s doorstep.
Regan begs Felix to keep her secret from Stevie and he's not happy.
Felix the ever endearing nerdy hero.
Regan, not so likeable, she’s rough and tough and bad-mannered.
Loved the, snarky, witty banter between Felix and Regan. They are hilarious together!
Some delicate themes are covered in this book.
Always a pleasure to be reunited with the other happy couples from previous Rags to Riches books.
A romance that is smart, effective and hopeful.
Onto Stevie and Ethan's story.
December 15, 2018
This was pretty depressing really, and not much really happened There wasnt much character development either - just wodges of metaphors and purple prose that became tedious when the whole book seemed to be just between two people. . The Christmas aspect seemed to be added on somehow and as a Christmas story this was a major fail. There was no 'Christmas' feel to the book other than decorating a flat and buying a tree.
The writing exhausted me. The emotions were all the same vary much and the sentence structure sometimes too choppy as if the writing is gasping for breath. I wanted the story to take a long deep breath and relax, to ease off on the sexual tension and hidden secrets...though it was obvious from the start what the secret is. I want some lighthearted laughter, I wanted to enjoy the relationship and see how Felix coped with Regan. Instead I got reams (and reams... right through to the end) of this:
She had hidden, believing acute loneliness was better than what had come before.
Uneasily, it occurred to him he mightn't want to see into that sack of secrets, after all.
They might tear his heart out.
Regan wondered how her skin was strong enough to contain the madness within. As the plane landed out of Byron Bay, her insides were pummeled by fear, guilt, and an unbearable sadness. Such selfish emotions, they all fought for center stage, careless of the fact that their raging left her brittle and on the verge of cracking.
And this:
Thrown, she resumed stepping in the footprints he'd made in the sand. A perk of being antisocial was not having to deal with inadequacy, but for a moment, her shortfalls joined the cram inside her. As if there was room.
The ending was unsatisfactory.
But he didnt. And I hated him for that.
And yes, this is the first in a series, but there were too many unanswered questions to make me feel satisfied at the end of this book.
The writing exhausted me. The emotions were all the same vary much and the sentence structure sometimes too choppy as if the writing is gasping for breath. I wanted the story to take a long deep breath and relax, to ease off on the sexual tension and hidden secrets...though it was obvious from the start what the secret is. I want some lighthearted laughter, I wanted to enjoy the relationship and see how Felix coped with Regan. Instead I got reams (and reams... right through to the end) of this:
She had hidden, believing acute loneliness was better than what had come before.
Uneasily, it occurred to him he mightn't want to see into that sack of secrets, after all.
They might tear his heart out.
Regan wondered how her skin was strong enough to contain the madness within. As the plane landed out of Byron Bay, her insides were pummeled by fear, guilt, and an unbearable sadness. Such selfish emotions, they all fought for center stage, careless of the fact that their raging left her brittle and on the verge of cracking.
And this:
Thrown, she resumed stepping in the footprints he'd made in the sand. A perk of being antisocial was not having to deal with inadequacy, but for a moment, her shortfalls joined the cram inside her. As if there was room.
The ending was unsatisfactory.
But he didnt. And I hated him for that.
And yes, this is the first in a series, but there were too many unanswered questions to make me feel satisfied at the end of this book.
January 3, 2020
Madeline Ash creates characters with depth. Heartfelt, flawed, deep characters. She gives the story rich detail. Such a good story. You do not need to read the others to understand this title, but those were great too. It’s a quick read. I plan to buy the next book in the series.
December 31, 2015
This wasn't quite what I was expecting. It was a well written story but quite difficult topics for a Christmas read.
It deals with abuse and rape, handled well but not what I'm looking for in a Christmas read.
I kindly received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2025
What a story! A young girl runs away from home and nobody hears from her in 8 years! After a brief introduction to how this came about, the story quickly jumps ahead to when she returns home. Her story is heartbreaking, yet hopeful. She reconnects with an old friend, but hesitates to confront her sister, whom she feels she more than let down by her departure. There are so many adjustments that she must make, but is afraid to make them. Her life was shattered, and she doesn't think she can trust anyone or even trust herself.
This is a touching story about a person who struggles with her inner demons, afraid to confront them head-on. She knows that the time has come to come clean with her sister and her friend, but doing so takes more courage than she can muster. One of her best friends that she seeks out is shocked to see her back home and takes some time to adjust to her being there. But he soon welcomes her and lets her stay with him. Although communication is difficult, there seems to be a magnetism between them and they are drawn to each other. Much of the story is about how they grow closer to each other and enjoy learning more about each other. Of course the attraction becomes sexual as well.
A lot to time is spent convincing this young woman that she needs to see her sister, who she wants to see again, but is afraid that she will be rejected for what she did. It takes a long time to convince her that this must be done. And when this finally happens, she is all of a sudden able to bare her sole and tell the whole story of why she ran away from home without telling her sister the reason. What a surprise this is to not only her sister and her best friend, but definitely to the reader of the story. Although the story is very emotional, I think every reader will enjoy it as much as I did.
This is a touching story about a person who struggles with her inner demons, afraid to confront them head-on. She knows that the time has come to come clean with her sister and her friend, but doing so takes more courage than she can muster. One of her best friends that she seeks out is shocked to see her back home and takes some time to adjust to her being there. But he soon welcomes her and lets her stay with him. Although communication is difficult, there seems to be a magnetism between them and they are drawn to each other. Much of the story is about how they grow closer to each other and enjoy learning more about each other. Of course the attraction becomes sexual as well.
A lot to time is spent convincing this young woman that she needs to see her sister, who she wants to see again, but is afraid that she will be rejected for what she did. It takes a long time to convince her that this must be done. And when this finally happens, she is all of a sudden able to bare her sole and tell the whole story of why she ran away from home without telling her sister the reason. What a surprise this is to not only her sister and her best friend, but definitely to the reader of the story. Although the story is very emotional, I think every reader will enjoy it as much as I did.
November 19, 2019
I loved this one. Capital letters LOVED even.
I kept telling myself to slow down and enjoy it but I just couldn't put it down, so instead I finished it in a couple of hours. I still thoroughly enjoyed it. My husband was skeptical though as I was lying next to him bawling my eyes out.
This is a very emotional book that deals with sensitive material, it may not be for everyone because the trauma of Regan's past has the potential to be a serious trigger. But Regan was so genuine that my heart hurt for her. She trying so hard and struggling with herself that I wanted her to win so bad. I was automatically pulling for her. The balance of hard ass and emotional wreck was beautiful.
Felix is amazing. What a lovely supportive character. He is so sensitive to Regan's moods that he gives her space or gives her comfort without really needing to be told and he is so respectful of her boundaries. <3 <3 <3 Definitely my new book crush.
Also I found it really interesting that Regan fled from Canada back to Australia and it points out that Christmas with snow just isn't Christmas whereas I from Canada found that to be totally backwards but refreshing! Christmas on the beach sounds so alien that I may have to try it sometime.
I can definitely see myself re-reading this story in Christmas's to come.
I kept telling myself to slow down and enjoy it but I just couldn't put it down, so instead I finished it in a couple of hours. I still thoroughly enjoyed it. My husband was skeptical though as I was lying next to him bawling my eyes out.
This is a very emotional book that deals with sensitive material, it may not be for everyone because the trauma of Regan's past has the potential to be a serious trigger. But Regan was so genuine that my heart hurt for her. She trying so hard and struggling with herself that I wanted her to win so bad. I was automatically pulling for her. The balance of hard ass and emotional wreck was beautiful.
Felix is amazing. What a lovely supportive character. He is so sensitive to Regan's moods that he gives her space or gives her comfort without really needing to be told and he is so respectful of her boundaries. <3 <3 <3 Definitely my new book crush.
Also I found it really interesting that Regan fled from Canada back to Australia and it points out that Christmas with snow just isn't Christmas whereas I from Canada found that to be totally backwards but refreshing! Christmas on the beach sounds so alien that I may have to try it sometime.
I can definitely see myself re-reading this story in Christmas's to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 12, 2025
Although instalove, this romantic holiday novella was satisfying and got me out of a reading slump.
Even knowing deep in my heart why Reagan ran and also why she begged Felix to take her sister with him when he left for university, I cried for what she experienced when she was younger. Madeline Ash didn't just tug at my heartstrings during this "confession," she ripped them right out.
Regan was determined to protect herself and push Felix away, but he refused to allow it.
“It meant something to me.”
“God, Felix. Don’t.”
“I face the truth. I don’t run from it.”
“There’s something between us.”
“Yeah, a misunderstanding.”
“Yes. Between our hearts and heads. Wires got crossed and now I’m so gone on you that I can’t think about anything else. But you know what? I don’t care that our situation is complicated or that it’d be easier to fall for almost any other woman out there. I want you.”
After years questioning herself, her self-worth, Regan deserved the happily ever after she finally found with Felix.
Even knowing deep in my heart why Reagan ran and also why she begged Felix to take her sister with him when he left for university, I cried for what she experienced when she was younger. Madeline Ash didn't just tug at my heartstrings during this "confession," she ripped them right out.
Regan was determined to protect herself and push Felix away, but he refused to allow it.
“It meant something to me.”
“God, Felix. Don’t.”
“I face the truth. I don’t run from it.”
“There’s something between us.”
“Yeah, a misunderstanding.”
“Yes. Between our hearts and heads. Wires got crossed and now I’m so gone on you that I can’t think about anything else. But you know what? I don’t care that our situation is complicated or that it’d be easier to fall for almost any other woman out there. I want you.”
After years questioning herself, her self-worth, Regan deserved the happily ever after she finally found with Felix.
December 3, 2019
You for Christmas is a sassy and compelling contemporary romance that is sure to endear you to the characters with their wit and candid dialogue!
The story is a shorter story, easily read in 2-3 hours.
There's very little sexy details to be aware of.
This is a Christmas story, a coming home romance, a story where the character overcomes her past.
This is about Felix and Regan.
She gave him the ability to run away, then ran away herself.
Years later, she comes back to be with the only family that she has left. Stevie, her sister. And best friend to Felix. Felix owes her, for helping him to run away. AS they get to know each other again, they fall for each other.
This is a fast-paced, intriguing story that will keep you on your toes from beginning to end. As we get to know Regan and Felix, their characters endear themselves to us.
This is definitely a story worth reading! Check it out!
The story is a shorter story, easily read in 2-3 hours.
There's very little sexy details to be aware of.
This is a Christmas story, a coming home romance, a story where the character overcomes her past.
This is about Felix and Regan.
She gave him the ability to run away, then ran away herself.
Years later, she comes back to be with the only family that she has left. Stevie, her sister. And best friend to Felix. Felix owes her, for helping him to run away. AS they get to know each other again, they fall for each other.
This is a fast-paced, intriguing story that will keep you on your toes from beginning to end. As we get to know Regan and Felix, their characters endear themselves to us.
This is definitely a story worth reading! Check it out!
December 15, 2018
An emotional rollercoaster! The transformation of Regan from ugly duckling to princess is uplifting!
To be honest I didn't care for the protagonist Regan! She was hard to like, prickly and flighty! Thank goodness I stayed with the story to see this wonderful young woman emerge as a becon of strength and determination in a world of tragedy and regrets!
Felix is a rock of kindness, support, love and understanding! He elicits from Regan the courage to face the pain and hearache she has evoked! With Felix by her side, Regan accepts the consequences of her well intentioned but brutal flight to obscurity!
With love and kindness nurturing her broken life, Regan blooms into the strong beautiful young woman she was meant to be!
Powerful storytelling and a rewarding Christmas story of happy endings!
To be honest I didn't care for the protagonist Regan! She was hard to like, prickly and flighty! Thank goodness I stayed with the story to see this wonderful young woman emerge as a becon of strength and determination in a world of tragedy and regrets!
Felix is a rock of kindness, support, love and understanding! He elicits from Regan the courage to face the pain and hearache she has evoked! With Felix by her side, Regan accepts the consequences of her well intentioned but brutal flight to obscurity!
With love and kindness nurturing her broken life, Regan blooms into the strong beautiful young woman she was meant to be!
Powerful storytelling and a rewarding Christmas story of happy endings!
December 17, 2018
Will Regan and Felix get want they want for Christmas
I really enjoyed this story it kept me hooked from beginning to the end. Felix runs away from his abusive father the moment he finishes high school with his best friend Stevie. They are able to survive thanks to Regan, Stevie's younger sister giving Felix half of the money she stole from her foster family. Jump forward 8 years Felix is in a successful job with no real life outside work. Regan shows up at his door full of secrets including the real reason she stolen the money be she too ran away. The sparks fly between them but will Regan let her past keep her from the future she deserves
I really enjoyed this story it kept me hooked from beginning to the end. Felix runs away from his abusive father the moment he finishes high school with his best friend Stevie. They are able to survive thanks to Regan, Stevie's younger sister giving Felix half of the money she stole from her foster family. Jump forward 8 years Felix is in a successful job with no real life outside work. Regan shows up at his door full of secrets including the real reason she stolen the money be she too ran away. The sparks fly between them but will Regan let her past keep her from the future she deserves
August 13, 2019
I enjoyed reading this tale of Regan Case's return home after eight years. She knocks on the door of Felix Nickson who was her sister's best friend. Before she disappeared Regan stuffed $10,000 into Felix's pants so that he could help protect her sister and himself.
Regan does not want Felix to tell her sister that she is home. She waits until they go to a friend of Felix's for Christmas. Before they leave, they develop feelings for each other. Neither one is willing to admit this to each other, yet. To find out when and if they do, please read this book. Read for the letter "Y" in Alphabet challenge.
Regan does not want Felix to tell her sister that she is home. She waits until they go to a friend of Felix's for Christmas. Before they leave, they develop feelings for each other. Neither one is willing to admit this to each other, yet. To find out when and if they do, please read this book. Read for the letter "Y" in Alphabet challenge.
December 28, 2019
From Pain to Pleasure
Felix thought he was living his best life. He had a stable job where was flourishing, a great apartment, and great friends. He really could not complain. Then on a random day a blast from the past made him realize that none of that mattered more than love.
Sweet heart broken Regan was tired of running. She needed a break from the past that stripped her of her innocence. She realized she could no longer do it on her own. There were so many layers and you could literally feel both Felix and Regan ache for each other.
Felix thought he was living his best life. He had a stable job where was flourishing, a great apartment, and great friends. He really could not complain. Then on a random day a blast from the past made him realize that none of that mattered more than love.
Sweet heart broken Regan was tired of running. She needed a break from the past that stripped her of her innocence. She realized she could no longer do it on her own. There were so many layers and you could literally feel both Felix and Regan ache for each other.
January 7, 2018
I loved this book. It was the first book of Madeline Ash's I have read, and it certainly will NOT be the last. Madeline hooked me in from the first page. I adore her writing style. The cute and quirky way she described her characters and their idiosyncrasies had me wishing I could write as well. I celebrated through their highs and suffered through their lows along with them, whilst they struggled for their HEA.
A very satisfying and rewarding book to read in the holiday season.
A very satisfying and rewarding book to read in the holiday season.
December 31, 2018
So for some reason I was absolutely hooked to this book. I loved the character growth and I really like both Reagan and Felix. I'm not too keen to the damsel in distress skit but Reagan really did need someone. It was heartbreaking reading about her struggles and all you wanted to do was give her a hug. I also liked that this wasn't your typical Christmas story. I don't live in an area where we get snow for the holidays so it was a bit more relatable that way.
January 14, 2019
Oh my gosh..... I was not expecting that!
I loved the whole kit and caboodle of this book. I had not read the first two books..... but I am definitely going to now!
This story was so well written... I just adored Felix, and my heart just went out to Regan.
Get your tissues ready as you read about sassy Regan's reunion with secure and stable Felix.
This damsel in distress and white knight story left me feeling amazing!
Thank you, Madeline Ash.
I loved the whole kit and caboodle of this book. I had not read the first two books..... but I am definitely going to now!
This story was so well written... I just adored Felix, and my heart just went out to Regan.
Get your tissues ready as you read about sassy Regan's reunion with secure and stable Felix.
This damsel in distress and white knight story left me feeling amazing!
Thank you, Madeline Ash.
February 3, 2025
Slow to get moving and paragraphs went on and on describing one thing to the point of boredom, so I just jumped ahead several chapters. It didn’t seem I’d missed anything though as the story seemed to be in the same place. I did this repeatedly and again didn’t seem to miss anything.
I found the premise to be sketchy, lacking an interesting defined plot, and the ending was difficult to follow and eventually disappointing.
I found the premise to be sketchy, lacking an interesting defined plot, and the ending was difficult to follow and eventually disappointing.
December 13, 2018
You for Christmas
What an emotional story. Regan returns after years away. Not expecting forgiveness but wanting to be a better person. Felix is shocked to see Regan at his door. As the past comes to light feeling grow.
I found myself crying even though I kinda guessed what was coming but it still was hard to read. Loved the story and the characters.
What an emotional story. Regan returns after years away. Not expecting forgiveness but wanting to be a better person. Felix is shocked to see Regan at his door. As the past comes to light feeling grow.
I found myself crying even though I kinda guessed what was coming but it still was hard to read. Loved the story and the characters.
December 26, 2018
You for Christmas (Tags to Riches Book 3)
The love story of Feliex and Regan. When Feliex was eighteen and just finished high school, Regan give him $10,000 to run away with her sister to keep her safe. Now right years later Regan is back. Will they learn why she run? Great story.
The love story of Feliex and Regan. When Feliex was eighteen and just finished high school, Regan give him $10,000 to run away with her sister to keep her safe. Now right years later Regan is back. Will they learn why she run? Great story.
December 29, 2018
Another beautiful book from Madeline Ash. Her seemingly effortless ability to combine lighthearted wit and banter with a deep, moving story about strength, courage and love keeps me coming back for more. Regan and Felix's journey is compelling and delightful, and is the perfect addition to her series of connected stories.
January 29, 2019
Sweet Story
It was a wonderful surprise to read about a nerd falling in love. I just loved it. When Regan shows up at Felix's door he is a little put off, as well as surprised. She's from the past, but she is also his best friend's sister, who has been missing for eight years. It's a beautiful story showing love and how that love protects those who are loved. Beautiful.
It was a wonderful surprise to read about a nerd falling in love. I just loved it. When Regan shows up at Felix's door he is a little put off, as well as surprised. She's from the past, but she is also his best friend's sister, who has been missing for eight years. It's a beautiful story showing love and how that love protects those who are loved. Beautiful.
December 26, 2025
I was expecting a really light Christmas romance with a predictable trope but this one surprised me! There were some intense parts that really held my interest and a twist or two I did not expect. The sex scenes had me skimming through a couple of the middle sections - just get me back to the story!
December 13, 2018
Interesting book
This was a new author for me and I was pleasantly surprised. Slightly different style of writing but I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading Stevie’s book now.
This was a new author for me and I was pleasantly surprised. Slightly different style of writing but I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading Stevie’s book now.
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