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O'Connor Family #1
Merry Christmas, Baby
from All He Wants For ChristmasWarm up with a sexy holiday tale of love and romance from USA Today bestselling author Katie Reus... After unexpectedly inheriting a bookstore, Nora and her younger sister settled in Holly, NC, a place where it’s Christmas year-round. As the legal guardian for her sister the past few years, romance has been the last thing on Nora’s mind. But she broke her rules for the town’s golden boy—former SEAL Jackson O’Connor. When Jackson does something stupid and almost loses Nora for good, he realizes just how far he’s willing to go for the woman who’s stolen his heart. But it might take a Christmas miracle to get Nora to give him a second chance. novella Author This novella is part of the All He Wants for Christmas anthology. It may be purchased as part of the anthology or as an individual title.
132 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2015
44 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
About the author
Katie Reus
164 books3,244 followersKatie Reus® is the USA Today bestselling author of the Endgame trilogy, the MacArthur Family series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom's stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn't always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
March 27, 2018
Narrator Review: Sophie Eastlake
Distinguishable between characters: 5 Stars
Impersonating opposite sex: 3 Stars
Accents: N/A
Any critiques: I wasn't a fan of the Hero's voice. I'm very picky about this and it doesn't ruin my overall enjoyment of an audio book.
Overall enjoyment of Performance: 4 Stars
Recommend audible version: Yes
Borrowed on Audible Romance Package
Story Review:
-possessive hero
-likeable heroine
-safe read, no abuse or cheating
-a tiny amount of OW drama
There is some groveling by the Hero since he freaked out when he realized Nora was "it" for him and didn't contact her for 3 weeks. I didn't love that part but that's where our story begins and starts with him pursuing her to get her back.
Distinguishable between characters: 5 Stars
Impersonating opposite sex: 3 Stars
Accents: N/A
Any critiques: I wasn't a fan of the Hero's voice. I'm very picky about this and it doesn't ruin my overall enjoyment of an audio book.
Overall enjoyment of Performance: 4 Stars
Recommend audible version: Yes
Borrowed on Audible Romance Package
Story Review:
-possessive hero
-likeable heroine
-safe read, no abuse or cheating
-a tiny amount of OW drama
There is some groveling by the Hero since he freaked out when he realized Nora was "it" for him and didn't contact her for 3 weeks. I didn't love that part but that's where our story begins and starts with him pursuing her to get her back.
January 4, 2017
Merry Christmas, Baby is about a second chance at love for Nora Cassidy, who is working hard to remodel a bookshop she inherited while raising her younger sister and ex Navy SEAL Jackson O’Connor. Nora and Jackson have great chemistry from the start but Jackson hurt Nora in the past and I really liked that she didn’t make it too easy for him. She made him fight for her – and I loved that he did.
I also greatly enjoyed reading about the Christmas-themed small town of Holly, filled with charming and quirky inhabitants. Who wouldn’t want to live there?
A sweet and sexy short read, not only for the Holiday season.
* I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I also greatly enjoyed reading about the Christmas-themed small town of Holly, filled with charming and quirky inhabitants. Who wouldn’t want to live there?
A sweet and sexy short read, not only for the Holiday season.
* I received a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2016
4.5 - "Best Christmas present ever." Stars!
I originally read Merry Christmas, Baby this time last year when it was released in the Anthology; All He Wants For Christmas...
It hit the Christmas spot then in fact the whole Anthology did, and I was happy to re-read Jackson and Nora’s second-chance at Christmas novella again.
He’d never failed a mission yet and he wasn’t going to start now.
This is a small, but perfectly formed story about a couple who know how they feel about each other, their love has grown from friendship, but the speed and depth of the feelings that have developed causes one of them to pull back, and at a pretty pivotal point in the step from just-friends to more.
"...You fight dirty."
"I play to win..."
It doesn’t take Jackson long to realize that his fear of the unknown is holding him back from a pretty spectacular woman’s love, and he goes all out to rectify his mistake.
2016 has been a year of Katie Reus hits for me, and this novella topped off a pretty impressive pile of great reads perfectly. This is an author whose work I will happily drop everything else for, too read, and I am looking forward to more reading adventures with her and her characters in 2017.
**Copy generously provided by the author, and it was, as it always is, my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
I originally read Merry Christmas, Baby this time last year when it was released in the Anthology; All He Wants For Christmas...
It hit the Christmas spot then in fact the whole Anthology did, and I was happy to re-read Jackson and Nora’s second-chance at Christmas novella again.
He’d never failed a mission yet and he wasn’t going to start now.
This is a small, but perfectly formed story about a couple who know how they feel about each other, their love has grown from friendship, but the speed and depth of the feelings that have developed causes one of them to pull back, and at a pretty pivotal point in the step from just-friends to more.
"...You fight dirty."
"I play to win..."
It doesn’t take Jackson long to realize that his fear of the unknown is holding him back from a pretty spectacular woman’s love, and he goes all out to rectify his mistake.
2016 has been a year of Katie Reus hits for me, and this novella topped off a pretty impressive pile of great reads perfectly. This is an author whose work I will happily drop everything else for, too read, and I am looking forward to more reading adventures with her and her characters in 2017.
**Copy generously provided by the author, and it was, as it always is, my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
October 15, 2016
3.5 stars!
I love a story that is set around Christmas time. I used to binge on the Hallmark Channel movies and recorded them to watch them later in the year. This was a cute, safe short story with extremely minimal angst.
Jackson was an "ok" hero for me. Even though he was a former Seal, which I love, he wasn't alpha enough in my opinion. He liked Nora and I feel dropped the ball when . Now, three weeks later he can't stay away any longer. After he decides he wants to pursue her, there was no stopping her and he was great.
Nora was a really cool heroine. She was raising her younger sister after the death of their mother. They had just recently moved to Holly, NC when her great aunt passed away and left her a bookstore. She worked hard to make it a success, remodeling and making it a bookstore/coffee shop. She really liked Jackson and was hurt when he went silent on her. I liked that she put up at least a little bit of resistance (not much) and made Jackson squirm a bit.
~ow info
~om info-no om drama whatsoever
~moderate steam with a couple of sexy scenes
~a little pushing away from h at first-lasted about a day or so
~no cheating whatsoever
~cute epilogue a couple months out with a HFN ending (wanted more)
~a few great secondary characters that I would like to hear more about.
Being less that 100 pages, it's hard to really get a deep story, but it was cute none the less.
I love a story that is set around Christmas time. I used to binge on the Hallmark Channel movies and recorded them to watch them later in the year. This was a cute, safe short story with extremely minimal angst.
Jackson was an "ok" hero for me. Even though he was a former Seal, which I love, he wasn't alpha enough in my opinion. He liked Nora and I feel dropped the ball when . Now, three weeks later he can't stay away any longer. After he decides he wants to pursue her, there was no stopping her and he was great.
Nora was a really cool heroine. She was raising her younger sister after the death of their mother. They had just recently moved to Holly, NC when her great aunt passed away and left her a bookstore. She worked hard to make it a success, remodeling and making it a bookstore/coffee shop. She really liked Jackson and was hurt when he went silent on her. I liked that she put up at least a little bit of resistance (not much) and made Jackson squirm a bit.
~ow info
~om info-no om drama whatsoever
~moderate steam with a couple of sexy scenes
~a little pushing away from h at first-lasted about a day or so
~no cheating whatsoever
~cute epilogue a couple months out with a HFN ending (wanted more)
~a few great secondary characters that I would like to hear more about.
Being less that 100 pages, it's hard to really get a deep story, but it was cute none the less.
February 2, 2016
Read this as part of an anthology. It was a sweet story. But honestly, the hero had been a jerk to her and she folded like a cheap suit. I think he needed to have to wait a bit before she went back to him. I also do not think much of her parenting skills. While not my business, it did irritate me.
July 25, 2018
1.75 "Sometimes I just need a break from an almost 500 page book" stars.
This wasn't bad for a novella, but it was a little bit repetitive. Certain pieces of information and phrases were repeated a lot. However, I do like a friends to more romance as much as the next gal. I just wish we got to read a little bit more of the MCs getting to know each other and falling in love while they were still friends; all of that happened before the beginning of this novella. Without that background development, most of their attraction seemed physical more than anything else. I like that this was a safe read and that both MCs were celibate since they started getting to know each other and even during their month long break. However, due to the reasons I'd mentioned I couldn't rate this any higher.
This wasn't bad for a novella, but it was a little bit repetitive. Certain pieces of information and phrases were repeated a lot. However, I do like a friends to more romance as much as the next gal. I just wish we got to read a little bit more of the MCs getting to know each other and falling in love while they were still friends; all of that happened before the beginning of this novella. Without that background development, most of their attraction seemed physical more than anything else. I like that this was a safe read and that both MCs were celibate since they started getting to know each other and even during their month long break. However, due to the reasons I'd mentioned I couldn't rate this any higher.
May 5, 2020
This is a cute little Christmas romance. Nora has been in Holly for nine months and she’s wanted Jackson for all that time.
After months of flirting and flitting around each other they go on a date. It’s amazing. But Jackson acts like an idiot and Nora’s had enough.
May 18, 2017
It all happened way too quick for me, I felt like I had been dumped right into the middle of the story, either that or had missed a prologue - I even checked back to the beginning of the book again just to make sure I hadn't skipped past it. Yes I got the gist of what had previously gone on between the H/h but would have liked to have read it and had that build up.
October 16, 2017
I've read book 2, 3 and enjoyed those very much, thought I'll give this one a try.
The hero was a bit of a coward (if you ask me) who asked the heroine on a date and she had almost slept with him and after the date ended he promised he would call her only he never did, a couple of days later the heroine finds out he went on a date with another woman (this was a rumor).
He already knew that the heroine was the one for him before he asked her for a date but he got scared and ran and didn't called her for 3 weeks. She was weak and forgave him right away. Woman didn't even put a fight.
Hero never went on a date with ow he just gave her a ride after she got a flat tire.
Safety Note:
The hero was a bit of a coward (if you ask me) who asked the heroine on a date and she had almost slept with him and after the date ended he promised he would call her only he never did, a couple of days later the heroine finds out he went on a date with another woman (this was a rumor).
He already knew that the heroine was the one for him before he asked her for a date but he got scared and ran and didn't called her for 3 weeks. She was weak and forgave him right away. Woman didn't even put a fight.
Hero never went on a date with ow he just gave her a ride after she got a flat tire.
Safety Note:
December 27, 2016
This was my last Christmas novella for the year. I read a few this year. Busy and all & short(er) attention span + I was in the mood to read some short Christmas stories.
This was 3rd person POV.
The writing was pretty good, with a few of the usual cliches'.
Nora, the heroine had moved to Holly, NC less than a year before.
Jackson, the Hero has live in Holly, NC his whole life. He was a former Navy Seal.
He and Nora had gone out one time three weeks before but he kinda lost his nerve about calling her after.
Nora was briefly miffed, but her attraction to Jackson had her quickly forgiving him.
Jackson makes up for it and they start seeing each other. I liked both characters from what I read. I liked Jackson after he got his nerve up and pursued Nora. Jackson was protective of Nora.
This is a novella, so they moved fast.
Nora has custody of her 17 y/o sister, so Nora has been careful about who she lets in her life.
There's an HEA and a brief epilogue.
I enjoyed reading this holiday novella. 3.75 Christmas stars
ARC from NetGalley.
December 10, 2017
I loved this! It was heartfelt, fun, sweet and hot! Katie built a fantastic new world and I can't wait to reenter it to watch the rest of the O'Conner family find their HEA. I recommend to romance fans looking for a Christmas read that ticks all the boxes you want in a holiday read, but still feels fresh and fun.
December 11, 2017
So, I looked up my “most read authors” on Goodreads and saw that I’ve read 20 books by Katie Reus. Needless to say, I like her or I wouldn’t keep reading her books and novellas. However, this is the worst novella of hers that I’ve read! Of course, I did buy the second novella, Tease Me, Baby, but returned it without reading it. I like sex in my books/novellas but not nasty sex.
There was no small plot whatsoever. Just feelings of lust throughout the story, from both Nora and Jackson. Lust, lust and more lust. And then sex (kind of nasty sex, at that.) That’s it. Nothing Christmasy at all about this novella. For the first time I cannot recommend a KR read.
As to the narration: I love Sophie Eastlake so she was all that kept me listening. Her men sound like men and her emotions are awesome.
November 30, 2022
This one was really cute and sweet. I can't wait to read the next one.
December 23, 2016
This was such a sweet holiday novella. Short, sweet and sexy, this was a fun holiday story about a woman who is raising her younger sister and the former navy SEAL who captures her heart. This is the first book I've read by this author but I can't wait to read more!
February 9, 2017
This novella was originally published as part of the All He Wants for Christmas anthology, I don't think the anthology is on sale any more (I bought it back in 2015) but this story can now be purchased separately.
Nora has spent the last few years focused on raising her teenage sister and running the bookstore she inherited from her aunt. She's turned the business into a success but it hasn't left her much time for romance until her best friend Jackson made a move. Jackson was persistent and spent months worming his way into Nora's affections but just when things started going really well between them and she thought they were going to have a future together he spooked and did a disappearing act. Now several weeks later Nora has totally given up on the idea of a relationship and has gone back to focusing on her work and her sister but Jackson regrets his actions and will do whatever it takes to get Nora to give him another chance.
I think this was my favourite story in the anthology, it's incredibly sweet and I just loved both Nora and Jackson. They make a great couple but add in the Christmas setting and the antics of Nora's younger sister and this was a perfect fun holiday read. Jackson was a bit of an idiot when he panicked and bailed on Nora but he was pretty irresistible so I couldn't blame Nora for forgiving him.
Source: Although I'd previously purchased the anthology I also received this novella from the author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review (I didn't realise it was part of the anthology when I initially requested it).
Nora has spent the last few years focused on raising her teenage sister and running the bookstore she inherited from her aunt. She's turned the business into a success but it hasn't left her much time for romance until her best friend Jackson made a move. Jackson was persistent and spent months worming his way into Nora's affections but just when things started going really well between them and she thought they were going to have a future together he spooked and did a disappearing act. Now several weeks later Nora has totally given up on the idea of a relationship and has gone back to focusing on her work and her sister but Jackson regrets his actions and will do whatever it takes to get Nora to give him another chance.
I think this was my favourite story in the anthology, it's incredibly sweet and I just loved both Nora and Jackson. They make a great couple but add in the Christmas setting and the antics of Nora's younger sister and this was a perfect fun holiday read. Jackson was a bit of an idiot when he panicked and bailed on Nora but he was pretty irresistible so I couldn't blame Nora for forgiving him.
Source: Although I'd previously purchased the anthology I also received this novella from the author via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review (I didn't realise it was part of the anthology when I initially requested it).
December 19, 2016
I’ve heard many great things about Katie Reus and her books. But I never read any of her books before. So when I was looking for a nice Christmas themed audiobook to listen to during the HoHoHo Read-A-Thon, and I saw ‘ Merry Christmas Baby’ I decided this was the perfect opportunity to start listening to my first Katie Reus book.
In ‘Merry Christmas Baby’ we meet Nora. Nora is the owner of a small book/coffee shop and she lived with her younger sister in a small town called Holly. In Holly it’s Christmas all year-round. And ever since Nora got custody of her younger sister, this is the only town she felt like staying. Especially since she met sexy and sweet Jackson O’Connor. Jackson is everything Nora wants in a guy. But after what she taught was a great first date, Jackson ignored her for weeks. Now Jackson is determined to make things up to Nora. But Nora isn’t falling for his tricks again.
‘Merry Christmas Baby’ is a short, romantic and sexy Christmas story that pulled me in from the very first start. This was definitely a perfect Christmas read that had all the feels. A nice small town, a nice book/coffee shop, nice characters and a sweet and sexy romance. I really loved listening to this book.
The romance between Nora and Jackson was definitely very predictable but I still loved every minute of this story. I loved how sweet Jackson was and how much he wanted to fight for Nora. I enjoyed their interactions and I was totally rooting for them.
I also loved the little town of Holly. A town where it is Christmas every day? It sounds very sweet to me. And learning all those Christmas themed shop names.. LOL!! Hilarious.
The narrator Sophie Eastlake had a very nice voice to listen to. I liked the way she made Nora and Jackson come to life. Her voice fitted both the characters perfectly and above all she made it sound natural. I hate it when a narrator makes the romance sound unnatural and it makes you kind of uncomfortable to listen to it. Sophie Eastlake definitely didn’t do that.. I loved listening to this book.
I loved listening to ‘Merry Christmas Baby’ while driving to work. It was a fun and great way to pass the time and it really made me look forward to Christmas time. If you’re looking for a short, fun, sexy and Christmas themed audiobook.. ‘Merry Christmas Baby’ is for you.
In ‘Merry Christmas Baby’ we meet Nora. Nora is the owner of a small book/coffee shop and she lived with her younger sister in a small town called Holly. In Holly it’s Christmas all year-round. And ever since Nora got custody of her younger sister, this is the only town she felt like staying. Especially since she met sexy and sweet Jackson O’Connor. Jackson is everything Nora wants in a guy. But after what she taught was a great first date, Jackson ignored her for weeks. Now Jackson is determined to make things up to Nora. But Nora isn’t falling for his tricks again.
‘Merry Christmas Baby’ is a short, romantic and sexy Christmas story that pulled me in from the very first start. This was definitely a perfect Christmas read that had all the feels. A nice small town, a nice book/coffee shop, nice characters and a sweet and sexy romance. I really loved listening to this book.
The romance between Nora and Jackson was definitely very predictable but I still loved every minute of this story. I loved how sweet Jackson was and how much he wanted to fight for Nora. I enjoyed their interactions and I was totally rooting for them.
I also loved the little town of Holly. A town where it is Christmas every day? It sounds very sweet to me. And learning all those Christmas themed shop names.. LOL!! Hilarious.
The narrator Sophie Eastlake had a very nice voice to listen to. I liked the way she made Nora and Jackson come to life. Her voice fitted both the characters perfectly and above all she made it sound natural. I hate it when a narrator makes the romance sound unnatural and it makes you kind of uncomfortable to listen to it. Sophie Eastlake definitely didn’t do that.. I loved listening to this book.
I loved listening to ‘Merry Christmas Baby’ while driving to work. It was a fun and great way to pass the time and it really made me look forward to Christmas time. If you’re looking for a short, fun, sexy and Christmas themed audiobook.. ‘Merry Christmas Baby’ is for you.
November 13, 2017
Really enjoyed this and recommend it for a feel-good holiday tbr.
Nora the woman whose trust, sexy ex Seal Jackson needs to regain.
Nora is the new girl in town with her teenage sister. She inherited a bookstore in a town that lives and breaths Christmas all year. And now it really is Christmas. But she's not enjoying the season cause her friend whom she'd thought was going to be more than a friend, has been avoiding her for weeks.
Not only that but rumour has it he was seen with someone else!
There's a light mystery that helps bring them back together, and Jackson is devoted to winning Nora... again.
Safety
Nora the woman whose trust, sexy ex Seal Jackson needs to regain.
Nora is the new girl in town with her teenage sister. She inherited a bookstore in a town that lives and breaths Christmas all year. And now it really is Christmas. But she's not enjoying the season cause her friend whom she'd thought was going to be more than a friend, has been avoiding her for weeks.
Not only that but rumour has it he was seen with someone else!
There's a light mystery that helps bring them back together, and Jackson is devoted to winning Nora... again.
Safety
August 17, 2018
Fast, good read. I liked it a lot. The H/h were all about each other. Little ow drama, but it was settled quickly.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-qGB...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R-qGB...
December 5, 2018
**My thanks to NetGalley and KR Press LLC, for providing me with a free copy for an honest review**
With this novella we start where to friends have had most of a night together as more than friends and then Jackson does not contact Nora for three weeks and she is wondering why, along with nursing her heart.
In this novella we get Jackson pleading for another chance after freaking out and wanting more with Nora. We meet Nora's teenage sister who she has guardianship over and a few other members of the town they live in, Holly which is Christmas all year round.
It's a sweet tale where both characters still like each other and can't help themselves when they are alone.
It all happen very quickly, but that happens in novella's, however you certainly do not need to read the rest of the series to know what is going on.
I nice, quick holiday read.
With this novella we start where to friends have had most of a night together as more than friends and then Jackson does not contact Nora for three weeks and she is wondering why, along with nursing her heart.
In this novella we get Jackson pleading for another chance after freaking out and wanting more with Nora. We meet Nora's teenage sister who she has guardianship over and a few other members of the town they live in, Holly which is Christmas all year round.
It's a sweet tale where both characters still like each other and can't help themselves when they are alone.
It all happen very quickly, but that happens in novella's, however you certainly do not need to read the rest of the series to know what is going on.
I nice, quick holiday read.
December 27, 2016
Totally completely a cutesy read!!! But it's the holidays and what else would you want out of a holiday book. It was exactly what I was looking for. It's short, of course, but the story wasn't too rushed like some short stories can be and wasn't insta love either because the two had been prior friends. Perfect Christmas read, IMO.
May 18, 2017
I love to read anything written by Katie Reus and this way no exception. This is a lovely story and a lovely series. I would recommend this book to anyone without hesitation.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2018
Nora and Jackson have been friends for months until that one fateful night. The night of their first date. Then friends became so much more and Nora was floating on cloud nine until Jackson ghosted her. Now three weeks later he shows up hoping to pick up where they left off. Yeah, nope. Not going to happen.
This was a quick little Christmas story with two characters that completely charmed me. Nora is so sweet and yet strong and independent. Jackson is ex-military and gets a bit nervous when he’s talking to Nora. However, he loses that nervousness when the door to Nora cracks open and he bulldozes his way in.
This has a bit of a mystery, some sizzling chemistry, fun characters, and plenty of heart. I loved it!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
This was a quick little Christmas story with two characters that completely charmed me. Nora is so sweet and yet strong and independent. Jackson is ex-military and gets a bit nervous when he’s talking to Nora. However, he loses that nervousness when the door to Nora cracks open and he bulldozes his way in.
This has a bit of a mystery, some sizzling chemistry, fun characters, and plenty of heart. I loved it!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
December 24, 2016
My Review:
I liked this book just because there's a lot of history between the two MC's that happened before the story started.
Nora moved to this small town 9 months ago and Jackson has been courting her ever since. 3 weeks ago, she finally gave in (which she didn't want to do because she didn't want to risk their friendship) and they went out on a date. A date that was wonderful. So wonderful, in fact, that it totally freaked Jackson out. He's been avoiding her for 3 weeks...exactly what Nora feared. But as the book begins, he has realized that he totally screwed up and wants another chance...something that Nora isn't really willing to do, no matter how much she used to like him. She's learned her lesson.
And that's where the book starts...with Jackson coming into the book shop with flowers in his arms and Nora really not wanting to even talk to him. This is a short story that never felt like there wasn't enough information. The story feels very complete. Nora is the guardian for her younger sister and there's even a side story line there for what's going on in her sister's life. To make all of it even better, almost the entire story is told within the confines of the bookstore. Can we say happy place?
I liked the source of conflict between the two. It worked. I found it totally believable that a guy like Jackson would freak out at the perfection of their first date. Even though he really liked her, his momentary panic ruined everything. I could also see Nora's viewpoint. He really hurt her when he never called again.
The story was sweet. It was filled with wonderful small town romance...a place like Holly would be interesting to visit...and fun little moments. I liked the side story line, too. Overall, I just flat-out enjoyed it. Another plus...Jackson is a former SEAL...YUM!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I liked this book just because there's a lot of history between the two MC's that happened before the story started.
Nora moved to this small town 9 months ago and Jackson has been courting her ever since. 3 weeks ago, she finally gave in (which she didn't want to do because she didn't want to risk their friendship) and they went out on a date. A date that was wonderful. So wonderful, in fact, that it totally freaked Jackson out. He's been avoiding her for 3 weeks...exactly what Nora feared. But as the book begins, he has realized that he totally screwed up and wants another chance...something that Nora isn't really willing to do, no matter how much she used to like him. She's learned her lesson.
And that's where the book starts...with Jackson coming into the book shop with flowers in his arms and Nora really not wanting to even talk to him. This is a short story that never felt like there wasn't enough information. The story feels very complete. Nora is the guardian for her younger sister and there's even a side story line there for what's going on in her sister's life. To make all of it even better, almost the entire story is told within the confines of the bookstore. Can we say happy place?
I liked the source of conflict between the two. It worked. I found it totally believable that a guy like Jackson would freak out at the perfection of their first date. Even though he really liked her, his momentary panic ruined everything. I could also see Nora's viewpoint. He really hurt her when he never called again.
The story was sweet. It was filled with wonderful small town romance...a place like Holly would be interesting to visit...and fun little moments. I liked the side story line, too. Overall, I just flat-out enjoyed it. Another plus...Jackson is a former SEAL...YUM!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
January 24, 2016
Book: Merry Christmas, Baby
Author: Katie Reus
Publication Date: 1/23/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
Nora owns the bookstore in Holly and she really has not let a man in to her life in a very long time. The one time she did was with Jackson who took her out once and that was it. It left her angry to say the least. Well now, he walks back into her store and expects her to just drop all for him. Nora and Jackson have been good friends and she allowed it to step across that line but not that far. Jackson comes clean with Nora about why he vanished but can she forgive him? First, they need to figure out who is breaking into the bookstore.
Sweet, Romantic and such as Holly, NC dreams can come true.
I read this book in the book bundle All He Wants which I purchased.
Katie Reus
Author: Katie Reus
Publication Date: 1/23/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
Nora owns the bookstore in Holly and she really has not let a man in to her life in a very long time. The one time she did was with Jackson who took her out once and that was it. It left her angry to say the least. Well now, he walks back into her store and expects her to just drop all for him. Nora and Jackson have been good friends and she allowed it to step across that line but not that far. Jackson comes clean with Nora about why he vanished but can she forgive him? First, they need to figure out who is breaking into the bookstore.
Sweet, Romantic and such as Holly, NC dreams can come true.
I read this book in the book bundle All He Wants which I purchased.
Katie Reus
December 27, 2016
Cute story, although a tad predictable! Nora & Jackson feel the attraction but are terrified of a relationship. In addition, Nora is the legal guardian of her younger sister and doesn't have time for romance. But when someone breaks into Nora's bookstore, will Jackson come to her rescue and keep her safe for the rest of her life?
November 22, 2018
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
3.5 hearts
This was also an author newsletter giveaway (currently $0.99 at Amazon and Barnes & Noble as of writing this post. It is also in the Audible Romance package)
The O'Connor family series is by an author I always enjoy and the books are set in North Carolina, all with a holiday theme. While I got this one through the author, I bought a box set recently including the first 4 books for $0.99. They aren't long books but enough to build the world and the characters.
I really liked how Jackson and Nora opened up and talked to each other and worked through their issues, even though they started because of their chemistry. There is the development of the characters in town, their family and friends, which will will no doubt, help along the rest of the series. Nora owns a bookshop! They are nice, ordinary folks who get their relationship on track during the holidays.
HoHoHoRAT #7
3.5 hearts
This was also an author newsletter giveaway (currently $0.99 at Amazon and Barnes & Noble as of writing this post. It is also in the Audible Romance package)
The O'Connor family series is by an author I always enjoy and the books are set in North Carolina, all with a holiday theme. While I got this one through the author, I bought a box set recently including the first 4 books for $0.99. They aren't long books but enough to build the world and the characters.
I really liked how Jackson and Nora opened up and talked to each other and worked through their issues, even though they started because of their chemistry. There is the development of the characters in town, their family and friends, which will will no doubt, help along the rest of the series. Nora owns a bookshop! They are nice, ordinary folks who get their relationship on track during the holidays.
HoHoHoRAT #7
April 3, 2017
I hold Katie Reus to a high standard, her PNR series are always a fun mix of actiony adventures, original characters and steamy romance. This lacked all three for me. It wasn't unreadable or disappointing, but it wasn't memorable, original or in any way fun either. I'll get the next book in the series, hopefully things will pick up.
July 4, 2018
I really loved this one. Jackson stays away from her for 3 weeks after making out, but there is no one else. Slight ow drama who tries to get the h to believe she slept with H, but didn't last long. Slight push/pull.
March 9, 2017
This book is the perfect mix of sweet, fluffy, with a bit of spicy mixed in. It amazes me how authors writes Novellas. It's short and yet manages to squeeze in a great beginning, insert drama here and wonderful ending all in the span of a mani pedi. Amazeballs I tell you!
December 29, 2016
If you crave a quick, entertaining and sexy holiday escape, think Merry Christmas, Baby!
“You fight dirty,” she murmured, taking the tin from him.
“I play to win.”
Merry Christmas, Baby, by Katie Reus is a sweet and hot second-chance-at-love romance set in the small town of Holly, North Carolina, where it is Christmas-time year-round. I listened to the audio, but also own this novella in kindle form as part of the previously available All He Wants For Christmas box set. It is a quick stand-alone read – perfect for delving into during the holidays – or anytime – when you fancy a lighthearted dose of love and warm-fuzzies romance.
The nice and likable lead characters are Jackson O’Connor, a former Navy SEAL, and Nora a bookstore/coffee shop owner. Their story is fast-paced, but since the characters are already acquainted when we meet them, their instant attraction is wholly believable. Their bantering and dialogue left me alternately laughing and swooning. Being that this tale is from quintessential romantic suspense author Katie Reus, this story includes a slight suspenseful slant.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Merry Christmas, Baby:
He could traverse any terrain on the planet, kill someone countless ways with his bare hands and can and had survived behind enemy lines with his team on more than one occasion. But the thought of Nora going out with someone else twisted him up.
---
He gripped the back of her neck again in that purely dominating way that made her melt. “We’re finishing this when we get back.” His voice was a low, raspy growl.
---
“Tell me if you want to stop.” His voice was surprisingly unsteady as he stood back.
Her heart was pounding. She was glad to know she wasn’t the only one so affected. “No way.” Moonlight and streetlights streamed in from her two windows to give them more than enough illumination. “Now strip.”
Sophie Eastlake aces the narration of this book. If you enjoy audios, the audio edition is the way to go! Sophie has a clear, concise and pleasant voice and she hits all the right notes with pauses, enunciation, expressing emotions and differentiating the characters. Her performance sounds natural and exponentially enhanced my pleasure in the story.
Merry Christmas, Baby pulled me in from the very beginning. The story is condensed into seventy-two pages on my kindle, but it’s not lacking in any way. The couple’s tale is predictable, but delightfully delicious. If you crave a quick, entertaining and sexy holiday escape, think Merry Christmas, Baby!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
“You fight dirty,” she murmured, taking the tin from him.
“I play to win.”
Merry Christmas, Baby, by Katie Reus is a sweet and hot second-chance-at-love romance set in the small town of Holly, North Carolina, where it is Christmas-time year-round. I listened to the audio, but also own this novella in kindle form as part of the previously available All He Wants For Christmas box set. It is a quick stand-alone read – perfect for delving into during the holidays – or anytime – when you fancy a lighthearted dose of love and warm-fuzzies romance.
The nice and likable lead characters are Jackson O’Connor, a former Navy SEAL, and Nora a bookstore/coffee shop owner. Their story is fast-paced, but since the characters are already acquainted when we meet them, their instant attraction is wholly believable. Their bantering and dialogue left me alternately laughing and swooning. Being that this tale is from quintessential romantic suspense author Katie Reus, this story includes a slight suspenseful slant.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Merry Christmas, Baby:
He could traverse any terrain on the planet, kill someone countless ways with his bare hands and can and had survived behind enemy lines with his team on more than one occasion. But the thought of Nora going out with someone else twisted him up.
---
He gripped the back of her neck again in that purely dominating way that made her melt. “We’re finishing this when we get back.” His voice was a low, raspy growl.
---
“Tell me if you want to stop.” His voice was surprisingly unsteady as he stood back.
Her heart was pounding. She was glad to know she wasn’t the only one so affected. “No way.” Moonlight and streetlights streamed in from her two windows to give them more than enough illumination. “Now strip.”
Sophie Eastlake aces the narration of this book. If you enjoy audios, the audio edition is the way to go! Sophie has a clear, concise and pleasant voice and she hits all the right notes with pauses, enunciation, expressing emotions and differentiating the characters. Her performance sounds natural and exponentially enhanced my pleasure in the story.
Merry Christmas, Baby pulled me in from the very beginning. The story is condensed into seventy-two pages on my kindle, but it’s not lacking in any way. The couple’s tale is predictable, but delightfully delicious. If you crave a quick, entertaining and sexy holiday escape, think Merry Christmas, Baby!
My full review is posted at Reading Between The Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
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