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Minnesota Christmas #3
Winterfeuer
Paul ist einsam: Nachdem seine beiden besten Freunde ihr Liebesglück gefunden haben, bleibt er als fünftes Rad außen vor. Da hilft es ihm auch nicht, dass Krankenpfleger Kyle mit Schneepenissen und nicht jugendfreien Nachrichten um seine Aufmerksamkeit buhlt – denn Kyle ist nicht nur zu jung, sondern auch das genaue Gegenteil von dem, was Paul sich wünscht. Als Paul jedoch mit Kyle zusammen an der Weihnachtsaktion der Gemeinde arbeiten muss, offenbart Kyle eine Seite an sich, die für Paul alles verändern könnte …
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2015
47 people are currently reading
987 people want to read
About the author
Heidi Cullinan
50 books2,874 followersAuthor of over thirty novels, Midwest-native Heidi Cullinan writes positive-outcome romances for LGBT characters struggling against insurmountable odds because they believe there’s no such thing as too much happy ever after. Heidi’s books have been recommended by Library Journal, USA Today, RT Magazine, and Publishers Weekly. When Heidi isn’t writing, they enjoy gaming, reading manga, manhua, and danmei, playing with cats, and watching too much anime.
Heidi goes by Jun when being spoken to in person or online, and Jun’s pronouns are they/them.
Heidi goes by Jun when being spoken to in person or online, and Jun’s pronouns are they/them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 357 reviews
October 24, 2015
This is my favorite book of the series, and it's not just because Paul and Kyle are so damn right together.
It's because this book offers the ultimate HEA: three bears, all happy and settled; family, friendship, love, sex on the kitchen table, Christmas ... all that and penis snow sculptures too.
Snow sculptures are Kyle's thing. He makes them for his twin sister, who has Down syndrome. Kyle is 25, but everyone sees him as a child, including Paul, who's tried every man in Logan, and several surrounding counties, on for size.
Kyle may be effeminate, but he is toppy and likes to be in control. And that's what Paul needs: someone to take charge and make him feel like he deserves to be loved.
Paul's family belongs on the Motherfuckers-Like-You-Shouldn't-Have-Children shelf. They constantly put Paul down; nothing he does is good enough. And when Paul starts to avoid them, they spew their venom all over town and almost ruin a good thing.
Thank the angels that Kyle comes to the rescue!
I loved the dynamic between Paul and Kyle, the hurt/comfort and sweet smexy times.
Paul and Arthur always fought; Arthur gets off on banter and conflict. But Kyle isn't like that. He's easygoing and loves to knit for his man. Kyle is a nurturer; the way he takes care of Paul's elderly neighbor brought tears to my eyes.
Once Paul finally acknowledges that he always runs from happiness, he sees Kyle as a man ... a good man, the RIGHT man for him.
Paul runs hot and cold at the beginning, but kudos to the author for not dragging out the miscommunication. Kyle stands up for himself, and Paul actually listens!
The scenes with Arthur's meddlesome but well-meaning mom made me grin, and I absolutely loved Kyle's family: both his parents and Linda Kay. Especially Linda Kay. She added so much light and love to the story.
This book shouldn't be read as a standalone. If you haven't read the first two books, make a day of it and read all three. Just don't forget the hot cocoa.
It's because this book offers the ultimate HEA: three bears, all happy and settled; family, friendship, love, sex on the kitchen table, Christmas ... all that and penis snow sculptures too.
Snow sculptures are Kyle's thing. He makes them for his twin sister, who has Down syndrome. Kyle is 25, but everyone sees him as a child, including Paul, who's tried every man in Logan, and several surrounding counties, on for size.
Kyle may be effeminate, but he is toppy and likes to be in control. And that's what Paul needs: someone to take charge and make him feel like he deserves to be loved.
Paul's family belongs on the Motherfuckers-Like-You-Shouldn't-Have-Children shelf. They constantly put Paul down; nothing he does is good enough. And when Paul starts to avoid them, they spew their venom all over town and almost ruin a good thing.
Thank the angels that Kyle comes to the rescue!
I loved the dynamic between Paul and Kyle, the hurt/comfort and sweet smexy times.
It all tangled and snarled inside him until it became an explosion of joy, of having. Of being, of feeling.
Paul and Arthur always fought; Arthur gets off on banter and conflict. But Kyle isn't like that. He's easygoing and loves to knit for his man. Kyle is a nurturer; the way he takes care of Paul's elderly neighbor brought tears to my eyes.
Once Paul finally acknowledges that he always runs from happiness, he sees Kyle as a man ... a good man, the RIGHT man for him.
Paul runs hot and cold at the beginning, but kudos to the author for not dragging out the miscommunication. Kyle stands up for himself, and Paul actually listens!
The scenes with Arthur's meddlesome but well-meaning mom made me grin, and I absolutely loved Kyle's family: both his parents and Linda Kay. Especially Linda Kay. She added so much light and love to the story.
This book shouldn't be read as a standalone. If you haven't read the first two books, make a day of it and read all three. Just don't forget the hot cocoa.
"I'm not dating you because you're convenient. Because I don't want to simply have sex with you or hang out with you." He stroked the line of Paul's beard. "I want to be with. You. I want to watch gooey movies with you, and laugh and play and figure out new ways to enjoy sex, but I want to help you through the rough parts of life too."
November 28, 2015
4 Stars!!
“Winter Wonderland” in the third book in Heidi Cullinan’s “Minnesota Christmas” series and like the previous book in the series it can be read as a standalone. That being said, I highly recommend you to read the first two since you don’t want to miss two well executed Christmas gems. This was my first Christmas novel this year and even if is still November and Christmas is not even around the corner, I really felt the magical Christmas atmosphere reading this sweet tale.
“Winter Wonderland” fallows the story of Paul, character we met in the other books in the series. Paul Jansen is the only one of his friends who is single. He is happy that his two best friends finally found happiness with two awesome men, but he is lonely, too lonely. He craves what the other two have – love, happiness and stability. He hooks-up occasionally with different man from other nearly small towns, but hook-ups these days are not enough for him. He wants more. He’s sure he’s the only gay man in town, until someone, an admirer leaves him, on his front porch different snow sculptures – penis sculptures. He eventually finds out the artist behind those sculptures is Kyle Parks. Paul can’t believe Paul is his secret admirer, not because he’s ugly or anything, but because Kyle is way too young for him. And let’s forget he’s too femmy, so he’s not the right man for him. Or maybe he is?!
Kyle loves his family and his job, but he hates how most of the residents in his small town think he’s still ‘the leggy little boy’. He’s 25 year old, not 10, so why people can’t seem to let go of his youth? Kyle is young, but he knows what he wants – a real, stable relationship with a man..a man like Paul..with Paul. He always had a crush on him and he would do anything to capture his attention.
Kyle has one chance to prove Paul not only that he’s a full grown adult, but also that he can be the perfect man for him. While Kyle’s family is accepting and supportive with everything Kyle does and also with his sexuality, Paul’s family is simply awful, so everything can get complicated for these two if Kyle doesn’t show Paul how good they are together and how good is to have someone in your life you can trust and love.
This was my favorite installment in the series. It was such a sweet, fun, heartwarming, emotional read. The two main characters were truly endearing and I have to say I love the dynamic between them. I absolutely adored Kyle. He was such a sweetheart; endearing from start to finish. He’s only 25, but he was so mature. The fiercely way he loves his family, especially his adorable sister who has Down syndrome melted my heart. I loved their beautiful relationship and their interactions were fun and so sweet and I also enjoyed his relationship with Paul’s elderly neighbor. With Paul he was amazing. He loves to care for others, but most of all, he loves to care for Paul. And the way he cared for this troubled man was simply beautiful. He was sweet, protective, loyal, kind and made me love him so more and more as the story progressed. Paul has a lot of baggage and my heart broke for him. I hated his family with all my heart. God, what a bunch as a**holes. I loved how Kyle showed him that he has the right to want to feel loved and adored because he deserves. Kyle and Paul’s tender moments were so heartwarming, emotional and I loved every single one of them.
All in all, “Winter Wonderland” was a fantastic holiday romance, low in angst in drama, with two endearing main characters and a sweet love story that will make you swoon.
“Winter Wonderland” in the third book in Heidi Cullinan’s “Minnesota Christmas” series and like the previous book in the series it can be read as a standalone. That being said, I highly recommend you to read the first two since you don’t want to miss two well executed Christmas gems. This was my first Christmas novel this year and even if is still November and Christmas is not even around the corner, I really felt the magical Christmas atmosphere reading this sweet tale.
“Winter Wonderland” fallows the story of Paul, character we met in the other books in the series. Paul Jansen is the only one of his friends who is single. He is happy that his two best friends finally found happiness with two awesome men, but he is lonely, too lonely. He craves what the other two have – love, happiness and stability. He hooks-up occasionally with different man from other nearly small towns, but hook-ups these days are not enough for him. He wants more. He’s sure he’s the only gay man in town, until someone, an admirer leaves him, on his front porch different snow sculptures – penis sculptures. He eventually finds out the artist behind those sculptures is Kyle Parks. Paul can’t believe Paul is his secret admirer, not because he’s ugly or anything, but because Kyle is way too young for him. And let’s forget he’s too femmy, so he’s not the right man for him. Or maybe he is?!
Kyle loves his family and his job, but he hates how most of the residents in his small town think he’s still ‘the leggy little boy’. He’s 25 year old, not 10, so why people can’t seem to let go of his youth? Kyle is young, but he knows what he wants – a real, stable relationship with a man..a man like Paul..with Paul. He always had a crush on him and he would do anything to capture his attention.
Kyle has one chance to prove Paul not only that he’s a full grown adult, but also that he can be the perfect man for him. While Kyle’s family is accepting and supportive with everything Kyle does and also with his sexuality, Paul’s family is simply awful, so everything can get complicated for these two if Kyle doesn’t show Paul how good they are together and how good is to have someone in your life you can trust and love.
This was my favorite installment in the series. It was such a sweet, fun, heartwarming, emotional read. The two main characters were truly endearing and I have to say I love the dynamic between them. I absolutely adored Kyle. He was such a sweetheart; endearing from start to finish. He’s only 25, but he was so mature. The fiercely way he loves his family, especially his adorable sister who has Down syndrome melted my heart. I loved their beautiful relationship and their interactions were fun and so sweet and I also enjoyed his relationship with Paul’s elderly neighbor. With Paul he was amazing. He loves to care for others, but most of all, he loves to care for Paul. And the way he cared for this troubled man was simply beautiful. He was sweet, protective, loyal, kind and made me love him so more and more as the story progressed. Paul has a lot of baggage and my heart broke for him. I hated his family with all my heart. God, what a bunch as a**holes. I loved how Kyle showed him that he has the right to want to feel loved and adored because he deserves. Kyle and Paul’s tender moments were so heartwarming, emotional and I loved every single one of them.
All in all, “Winter Wonderland” was a fantastic holiday romance, low in angst in drama, with two endearing main characters and a sweet love story that will make you swoon.
February 1, 2016
*4.5 stars*
I hate when a lot of time goes by between when I read a book and when I write my review, but sometimes life gets in the way. But this book... it deserves an awesome review, because ICE PENISES! Toppy twinks! I just adored this Heidi Cullinan story. It was everything I've come to expect from this series, which will always hold a place the squishy, mushy, kinky part of my heart.
Kyle was so fabulous. I love it when I get a twist in roles, and a skinny boy who can dominate a big guy... you get 'em Kyle, you nasty boy! Kyle may look small, but he can put his money where his mouth is... *wink, wink* Kyle wasn't just a talented penis-sculptor (I will never get tired to typing that), but he was also a loving brother, devoted friend, and an all around awesome guy. He was a good balance for Paul, who was a little too wishy-washy about the relationship in the beginning for my taste. Luckily, Paul decided to get with the program, and once Kyle and Paul got together the story really took off.
I think if you are a fan of the Minnesota Christmas series, you will really like this one. This series happens to be one of my favorites of Heidi Cullinan's, and I think she ended it on an awesome note.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I hate when a lot of time goes by between when I read a book and when I write my review, but sometimes life gets in the way. But this book... it deserves an awesome review, because ICE PENISES! Toppy twinks! I just adored this Heidi Cullinan story. It was everything I've come to expect from this series, which will always hold a place the squishy, mushy, kinky part of my heart.
Kyle was so fabulous. I love it when I get a twist in roles, and a skinny boy who can dominate a big guy... you get 'em Kyle, you nasty boy! Kyle may look small, but he can put his money where his mouth is... *wink, wink* Kyle wasn't just a talented penis-sculptor (I will never get tired to typing that), but he was also a loving brother, devoted friend, and an all around awesome guy. He was a good balance for Paul, who was a little too wishy-washy about the relationship in the beginning for my taste. Luckily, Paul decided to get with the program, and once Kyle and Paul got together the story really took off.
I think if you are a fan of the Minnesota Christmas series, you will really like this one. This series happens to be one of my favorites of Heidi Cullinan's, and I think she ended it on an awesome note.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
October 5, 2015
Dreams do come true.
Even if you think it will never happen, even if you've given up all hope, even if you don't think you deserve it.
It can still happen.
Let's play in the snow.
Paul, diehard romantic, waiting for his Prince Charming. Oddly enough, he's got one hitting him up on Grindr. But, can you really trust a handle? All of his friends in Logan managed to pair bond and Paul is both happy and sad. If only...
When a rash of unexpected gifts/pranks, really could be either has got him riled up and he catches the culprit red-handed--it's little Kyle Parks, really? Well, maybe not so little with all that he's been up to, but still.
Kyle, sweet and dependable, hiding behind a facade of affectation. Naturally a nurturer and preternaturally young looking he's been fighting a losing battle for anyone in Logan to see him as an adult. A grown man, including Paul Hansen.
What follows is the dance back and forth as preconceptions are realigned, desires acknowledged, and dragons slain. There's a refreshing flip in relationship expectations for Kyle and Paul, and the heart and want is quite palpable. Throw in sweet little D/s kisses and they melt together.
Overall, a romantic holiday love story.
Favorite quote:
~A copy was provided by Netgalley and a review submitted~
ETA: While characters from other books in the series make appearances, background of those stories is not necessary for this one. It can be read as a standalone.
Even if you think it will never happen, even if you've given up all hope, even if you don't think you deserve it.
It can still happen.
Let's play in the snow.
Paul, diehard romantic, waiting for his Prince Charming. Oddly enough, he's got one hitting him up on Grindr. But, can you really trust a handle? All of his friends in Logan managed to pair bond and Paul is both happy and sad. If only...
When a rash of unexpected gifts/pranks, really could be either has got him riled up and he catches the culprit red-handed--it's little Kyle Parks, really? Well, maybe not so little with all that he's been up to, but still.
Kyle, sweet and dependable, hiding behind a facade of affectation. Naturally a nurturer and preternaturally young looking he's been fighting a losing battle for anyone in Logan to see him as an adult. A grown man, including Paul Hansen.
What follows is the dance back and forth as preconceptions are realigned, desires acknowledged, and dragons slain. There's a refreshing flip in relationship expectations for Kyle and Paul, and the heart and want is quite palpable. Throw in sweet little D/s kisses and they melt together.
Overall, a romantic holiday love story.
Favorite quote:
It was, despite his efforts to skirt this revelation, an unveiling of his heart.
~A copy was provided by Netgalley and a review submitted~
ETA: While characters from other books in the series make appearances, background of those stories is not necessary for this one. It can be read as a standalone.
December 12, 2016
Written December 16, 2015
3.3 Stars - A truly very sweet cozy Christmas candy
Book #3 ~ I really liked #1-Let it Snow (4 stars) then two years ago. This new Winter Wonderland, a full length novel (200 pages) and praised by many friends, was surprisingly for "sale" a couple of weeks ago. — Thanks, to sweet Lei who told me. Of course I downloaded.
Light-hearted, romantic, charming, easy to read, entertaining, filthy hot, cute, snowy, homely, familiar... — Yes, uber super cosiness. — I enjoyed.
*********************************************
The 'Minnesota Christmas' series is by now next to a M/M romance tradition with a new Winter / Christmas book about three friends in a picturesque snowy Minnesota town each year. Big, bearded, cuddly men. All three in need and want for a cute nice man to love and take care of.
# Grumpy "big-bear" Marcus found his own 'Goldilocks' in the hairdresser Frankie (#1).
# The sharp Gabriel from the Library then got the rougher tougher "middle-bear" Arthur (#2).
It is just poor lonely "wee-bear" Paul Jansen (37) left who isn't lucky enough to yet have his own boyfriend to cuddle with in Christmas times. Or take to gay-couple dinners with his friends..,
Then a very naughty big snow-penîs (imagine!!!) appears on Paul's front yard. The snow sculpture master is Kyle Parks, the local guy working at the nursery. But Kyle is a teenage-looking "boy" and way to young (he is actually 25), a bit twinkie, and for sure not the "dominant top" as Paul's inner desires prefer. ~ Or, maybe isn't everything as it seems at first. You have to look closer.
Enchanting loveable characters..
Paul is just a adorable shy, very sweet-hearted man, with a bit low self esteem, but in a huge hurried need of a caring boyfriend. He immediately dug deep into my romance-heart and I just smiled ridiculously silly every time I thought of him. A truly wonderful sweet little teddy bear. So cuddly, so submissive, all of my maternal feelings hit top gear immediately. Kyle, on the other side is a much stronger man, very nurturing, caring and thoughtful, but also more energetic and driven. These two were like frozen hands in warm gloves - perfect for each other.
Adorable sweet winter smex..
Well this wasn't very believable or realistic but super über cozy. So very charmingly written and described ... once again. Books for frozen winter hearts. This story defrost the most chilly before Christmas. Do you also fancy, some naughty kink and a lot of hot tumbling under the duvets in your M/M reads will this be even more fun.
**********************************************
A quite heavy sugar shock (I couldn't take more than a chapter or two each day) ...and Christmas hasn't even begun. ~ Once a year with these cuddling bears is enough.
I LIKE - sugary cute ...but in moderate doses
3.3 Stars - A truly very sweet cozy Christmas candy
Book #3 ~ I really liked #1-Let it Snow (4 stars) then two years ago. This new Winter Wonderland, a full length novel (200 pages) and praised by many friends, was surprisingly for "sale" a couple of weeks ago. — Thanks, to sweet Lei who told me. Of course I downloaded.
Light-hearted, romantic, charming, easy to read, entertaining, filthy hot, cute, snowy, homely, familiar... — Yes, uber super cosiness. — I enjoyed.
*********************************************
The 'Minnesota Christmas' series is by now next to a M/M romance tradition with a new Winter / Christmas book about three friends in a picturesque snowy Minnesota town each year. Big, bearded, cuddly men. All three in need and want for a cute nice man to love and take care of.
# Grumpy "big-bear" Marcus found his own 'Goldilocks' in the hairdresser Frankie (#1).
# The sharp Gabriel from the Library then got the rougher tougher "middle-bear" Arthur (#2).
It is just poor lonely "wee-bear" Paul Jansen (37) left who isn't lucky enough to yet have his own boyfriend to cuddle with in Christmas times. Or take to gay-couple dinners with his friends..,
Then a very naughty big snow-penîs (imagine!!!) appears on Paul's front yard. The snow sculpture master is Kyle Parks, the local guy working at the nursery. But Kyle is a teenage-looking "boy" and way to young (he is actually 25), a bit twinkie, and for sure not the "dominant top" as Paul's inner desires prefer. ~ Or, maybe isn't everything as it seems at first. You have to look closer.
‘...part of him had dangerous fantasies about how maybe Kyle was his Goldilocks after all. Not too hot, not too cold.’
Enchanting loveable characters..
Paul is just a adorable shy, very sweet-hearted man, with a bit low self esteem, but in a huge hurried need of a caring boyfriend. He immediately dug deep into my romance-heart and I just smiled ridiculously silly every time I thought of him. A truly wonderful sweet little teddy bear. So cuddly, so submissive, all of my maternal feelings hit top gear immediately. Kyle, on the other side is a much stronger man, very nurturing, caring and thoughtful, but also more energetic and driven. These two were like frozen hands in warm gloves - perfect for each other.
Adorable sweet winter smex..
Well this wasn't very believable or realistic but super über cozy. So very charmingly written and described ... once again. Books for frozen winter hearts. This story defrost the most chilly before Christmas. Do you also fancy, some naughty kink and a lot of hot tumbling under the duvets in your M/M reads will this be even more fun.
**********************************************
A quite heavy sugar shock (I couldn't take more than a chapter or two each day) ...and Christmas hasn't even begun. ~ Once a year with these cuddling bears is enough.
I LIKE - sugary cute ...but in moderate doses
October 31, 2015
After eagerly anticipating this book all year I was sad that I liked but didn't love it. I fell in love with Paul in the previous two books and was excited that he would finally get his HEA.
Negatives first.
What I didn't love so much:
*Paul. He was kind of "blah". I just wanted to shake him and scream at him to snap out of it. He was kind of frustrating.
*The sh*t storm Paul's family pulled and the lack of resolution- at least to me. At the end I just thought- that's it?
What I loved:
*Kyle. My gosh, I loved everything about him. He's got this gentle caring heart- the way he took care of his sister and the way he was with his patients melted my heart. And once he and Paul were together he was able to fill the broken pieces of Paul's heart left by Paul's family. I also loved how comfortable he was in his skin.
*The secondary cast of characters. Corrina, Kyle's family, and the rest of the guys added joy and humor to the story.
*The love story between Paul and Kyle was beautiful and lovely to read it unfold.
Although it wasn't what I was expecting, I would still recommend it. No two readers read the same book and we all react differently. It was a sweet holiday read and I hope that we get more books in the series. 3.5 Stars.
*ARC kindly provided by Samhain Publishing for an honest review*
*This review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews*
December 19, 2016
***3.75 Stars***
Oh Paul! He was such a romantic at heart! He wanted it all...the Christmas fairytale and the happily ever after. And thankfully, Santa sent him a bossy, toppy twink to make all his Christmas wishes come true.
Kyle may be younger than Paul, but he knows what he wants and he isn't afraid to go after it. But poor Paul, he's afraid to even hope that Kyle may be everything he's looking for. At first he rejects Kyle, coming up with all kinds of reasons why they shouldn't be together...but really, he's terrified of ruining something that may be all kinds of wonderful.
And Kyle....oh, Kyle. He was such a sweet, caring guy. A nurse at the senior care center who just wants to take care of everyone's grandmas and grandpas, a brother who loves his spunky twin sister with Down syndrome and a lover who wants to take care of Paul. With his young twink exterior and his sweet interior, the whole town put Kyle in a box and was prepared to keep him there.
But don't think for a minute that he lives his life in that box. Kyle may be all of those things, but he's so much more. And one of those things is a bossy, sexy top. He'll be the first to tell you not to judge anyone by their appearance.
"Tell me what you want?" Kyle kissed Paul's cheek, his chin, the side of his mouth, as his hand idly stroked Paul's length. "Do you want me to suck you? Fuck you? Do you want to suck me? Do you want to fuck me?"
"I - I thought..."
"You thought I was so toppy I couldn't bottom? Honey, I can drive from anywhere."
Everyone you've come to love over the course of this series shows up in this book...Marcus and Frankie (who are building a life in their new home), Gabriel and Arthur (who are settling into their life together and remodeling the cabin), Corinna (our town meddler, who naturally helps Kyle snag Paul's heart) and we get new secondary characters....
Kyle's family. A pillar of love and support and everything that family should be.
And Paul's family....a group of vile people who are a waste of space on this planet.
Overall this was a great conclusion to the series (I know there's one more book after this, but I've chosen not to read it) and I'm so happy that the three bears of Logan have found their men....and their happily ever afters.
October 14, 2015
This one was just a miss for me. I really didn't see the romance as anything more than a crush or puppy love. Also the relationship felt rushed which is really weird to say because in the first book I think Frankie and Marcus had maybe three days to fuck, fight, and fall in love.
Maybe it's the age gap which isn't my thing, or how much of a door mat Paul is in this. Make that a childish door mat...his expression of displeasure in his family in the end didn't endear me to his case by any means. Though I did have to say what he did after did get me all misty eyed.
So I guess this goes under my different strokes for different folks category. If age gap angst is your thing, awesome, this might be the book for you.
I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review!
This review can also be found at mle and my book blog, a shared brain cell, here.
Maybe it's the age gap which isn't my thing, or how much of a door mat Paul is in this. Make that a childish door mat...his expression of displeasure in his family in the end didn't endear me to his case by any means. Though I did have to say what he did after did get me all misty eyed.
So I guess this goes under my different strokes for different folks category. If age gap angst is your thing, awesome, this might be the book for you.
I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review!
This review can also be found at mle and my book blog, a shared brain cell, here.
November 17, 2015
It pains me. It pains me that I didn't just love this one. Paul has been waiting patiently for his HEA all this time and so have I. And really, up until 50% of the book I was wondering why all these mixed reviews. Then, I got it.
First of all, let me say that I absoluely LOVED parts of it.
*Kyle. Kyle was absolutely fantastic! A breath of fresh air. Hard working, determined and bold but selfless and giving.
*The dynamics of their relationship. It worked so well for me, that the roles were flipped. Toppy effeminate Kyle and "submissive" bear, Paul, burnt the sheets. And the kitchen table.
*Linda Kay. How can you NOT love her? Linda Kay is a real person and her beautiful story made me all teary eyed.
*The snow penises. And that first scene when Paul gets caught making one. So cute.
So, for all these reasons I was really enjoying the story. Until I started enjoying it less and less. Because I kept waiting for Paul to snap out of his funk! Although I never really understood where he was coming from, I let it pass because, ok, everyone freaks out now and then and Paul is a sensitive one.
But I felt that Kyle did all the work, while Paul was ...just there. I wish he stood up to his family who were the worst kind of people, just once. I get it, his character was more like the quiet, wounded bear who would rather not confront others. And maybe that would have been ok, had there been some kind of resolution with said family. But there was nothing.
Also, Arthur. He pissed me off because I felt he was getting between Paul and Kyle a couple of times. He seriously needed it to tone it down!
Overall, this was a nice holiday story. I was just bummed because my expectations were too high, I guess.
Marcus & Frankie FOR EVA!
First of all, let me say that I absoluely LOVED parts of it.
*Kyle. Kyle was absolutely fantastic! A breath of fresh air. Hard working, determined and bold but selfless and giving.
*The dynamics of their relationship. It worked so well for me, that the roles were flipped. Toppy effeminate Kyle and "submissive" bear, Paul, burnt the sheets. And the kitchen table.
*Linda Kay. How can you NOT love her? Linda Kay is a real person and her beautiful story made me all teary eyed.
*The snow penises. And that first scene when Paul gets caught making one. So cute.
So, for all these reasons I was really enjoying the story. Until I started enjoying it less and less. Because I kept waiting for Paul to snap out of his funk! Although I never really understood where he was coming from, I let it pass because, ok, everyone freaks out now and then and Paul is a sensitive one.
But I felt that Kyle did all the work, while Paul was ...just there. I wish he stood up to his family who were the worst kind of people, just once. I get it, his character was more like the quiet, wounded bear who would rather not confront others. And maybe that would have been ok, had there been some kind of resolution with said family. But there was nothing.
Also, Arthur. He pissed me off because I felt he was getting between Paul and Kyle a couple of times. He seriously needed it to tone it down!
Overall, this was a nice holiday story. I was just bummed because my expectations were too high, I guess.
Marcus & Frankie FOR EVA!
November 28, 2015
3.5 stars
Can be read as a stand-alone.
Paul is the only one left of the 3 friends who hasn’t found Mr. Right yet. When he finds snow penises on his lawn, he doesn’t know what to think of it.
It turns out to be Kyle, who is trying to get Paul’s attention. Kyle is 25 and therefore a lot younger than 38 year old Paul. And because Kyle is skinny and swishy, Paul assumes they won’t be a good fit. Because what Paul wants is someone to dominate him in the bedroom. But Kyle is not what he seems..
I really loved the younger, skinnier guy being the dominant top and the older bear to be the more submissive bottom.
There were some parts that dragged a bit. I hated the whole episode with Paul’s family and I felt it wasn’t really resolved at the end. It could have been left out completely.
Still, a very nice, and sexy holiday story.
Can be read as a stand-alone.
Paul is the only one left of the 3 friends who hasn’t found Mr. Right yet. When he finds snow penises on his lawn, he doesn’t know what to think of it.
It turns out to be Kyle, who is trying to get Paul’s attention. Kyle is 25 and therefore a lot younger than 38 year old Paul. And because Kyle is skinny and swishy, Paul assumes they won’t be a good fit. Because what Paul wants is someone to dominate him in the bedroom. But Kyle is not what he seems..
I really loved the younger, skinnier guy being the dominant top and the older bear to be the more submissive bottom.
There were some parts that dragged a bit. I hated the whole episode with Paul’s family and I felt it wasn’t really resolved at the end. It could have been left out completely.
Still, a very nice, and sexy holiday story.
December 4, 2015
(5th Xmas read 2015 with Paul)
I liked this one the best!! No people were more perfect for each other than Kyle and Paul.
Kyle was adorable. All his life he’s been treated as a child and Paul is also afraid to get involved with a 25 year old. But Kyle is no ordinary 25 year old. His whole teenage years he’d been crushing on Paul and when Paul and Arthur break up, Kyle sees this as his chance to make sure Paul is his.
Kyle
He makes his intentions clear by leaving certain snow sculptures on his front porch.
Paul is a contradiction in how he looked like, a bear and what he needed from a partner. Kyle was able to give him exactly what he needed. A place to let go…
“When had he become such a mess that getting exactly what he wanted most terrified him enough he tried to send it away?”
Paul
Paul runs and Kyle follows and makes him understand. I really loved their dynamics. Paul really has this baggage. His family that keeps criticising him for being who he is has made him the man scared to trust his feelings.
Kyle’s family was awesome. I loved his devotion to his twin sister Linda Kay who has Downs-syndrome. Kyle’s profession being a nurse in a nursing home, his need to take care of people had me in tears a few times.
In short this book is about family. Especially choosing a new family we are not born into. It’s about hope and love.
“When you’re done being by yourself, you come find me, okay? You come be with me. I’ll be your family. For as long as you’ll have me.”
December 22, 2015
*** 3 boring stars ***
I'm sad. I so wanted to love this book. I've been waiting for Paul to get his HEA with a great boyfriend, which he got, don't get me wrong, but it was all just... boring. 
And it upsets me, because I wanted it to be so much better. I liked it, though, hence 3 stars. It was sweet seeing Kyle and Paul finding each other and I'm very happy for them, but there was no fire, no passion, no funny situations, no nothing. Just... boring. *sniffles*
December 11, 2015
Paul finally gets his HEA in this story and I found Kyle to be a perfect partner for him. I enjoyed everything about this story except for the ending, which felt rushed and left me feeling like the story was unfinished.
Kyle is the "kid" that has crushed on Paul since he was in middle school, biding his time until Paul finally threw over Arthur. He comes from a close-knit family and dotes on his twin sister Linda Kay who was born with Downs Syndrome. His family is wonderful and supportive. We learn that Paul's family is anything but and is just getting worse. Paul however, sits and takes their abuse during phone calls and dinners because "they're family". Once Paul is with Kyle and lets his family know it, they decide to ruin his life.
Kyle is a wonderful character and his "toppy twink" persona is all kinds of hot when the two get together. Beyond that he is just a kind, caring person. I expected a bit more spark from Paul, but we don't see much more than a bit of it toward the end and it's not even directed at the people who want to put him down.
There is a beautiful happy ending for Kyle and Paul's relationship, but all of the issues regarding the drama with Paul's parents felt unresolved. I was also hoping to get a bit of an epilogue showing them moving in together and how Linda Kay would deal with it since it was brought up several times in the story.
Overall this was an enjoyable installment of the story, but it just left me wanting a little bit more in the end.
Kyle is the "kid" that has crushed on Paul since he was in middle school, biding his time until Paul finally threw over Arthur. He comes from a close-knit family and dotes on his twin sister Linda Kay who was born with Downs Syndrome. His family is wonderful and supportive. We learn that Paul's family is anything but and is just getting worse. Paul however, sits and takes their abuse during phone calls and dinners because "they're family". Once Paul is with Kyle and lets his family know it, they decide to ruin his life.
Kyle is a wonderful character and his "toppy twink" persona is all kinds of hot when the two get together. Beyond that he is just a kind, caring person. I expected a bit more spark from Paul, but we don't see much more than a bit of it toward the end and it's not even directed at the people who want to put him down.
There is a beautiful happy ending for Kyle and Paul's relationship, but all of the issues regarding the drama with Paul's parents felt unresolved. I was also hoping to get a bit of an epilogue showing them moving in together and how Linda Kay would deal with it since it was brought up several times in the story.
Overall this was an enjoyable installment of the story, but it just left me wanting a little bit more in the end.
September 21, 2024
3.5 Stars
Collectively, I’d say this was my favorite of the bunch by a smidge. If you want to know the truth, Arthur’s nephew Thomas from book 2, is still the standout character of the series. Love that kid so hard!!
Anyhoo, Kyle just wants to be taken seriously and treated like a grown up. He’s had his sights on Paul for forever, but it feels like an insurmountable feat to win his affections, let alone catch his eye. However, with the help of Arthur’s well intentioned mom, he just might be able to pull it off.
Paul is completely ready to settle down and be in a committed relationship. He’s been wanting this for years, but due to some family angst and personal hangups, he panics when he gets his heart’s desire. Can Kyle help him overcome his fears? Of course he can. Kyle’s warm heart and good intentions will conquer all.
There was a bit of comedy in this leading up to how Kyle pursues Paul. There’s also a fair amount of angsty insecurity and doubt. What stood out for me this time around, was as much as small town life can infuriate, it can also have a lot of good parts to it too. The sense of community is strong in this as people plan for a big holiday festival. As each subsequent story is told, the town of Logan becomes more fully fleshed out as a consequence. So intermix that with good feels and a touch of dirty smex, this had an ending that hints towards more to come (as we all already know). Overall a tidy for now, ending.
Collectively, I’d say this was my favorite of the bunch by a smidge. If you want to know the truth, Arthur’s nephew Thomas from book 2, is still the standout character of the series. Love that kid so hard!!
Anyhoo, Kyle just wants to be taken seriously and treated like a grown up. He’s had his sights on Paul for forever, but it feels like an insurmountable feat to win his affections, let alone catch his eye. However, with the help of Arthur’s well intentioned mom, he just might be able to pull it off.
Paul is completely ready to settle down and be in a committed relationship. He’s been wanting this for years, but due to some family angst and personal hangups, he panics when he gets his heart’s desire. Can Kyle help him overcome his fears? Of course he can. Kyle’s warm heart and good intentions will conquer all.
There was a bit of comedy in this leading up to how Kyle pursues Paul. There’s also a fair amount of angsty insecurity and doubt. What stood out for me this time around, was as much as small town life can infuriate, it can also have a lot of good parts to it too. The sense of community is strong in this as people plan for a big holiday festival. As each subsequent story is told, the town of Logan becomes more fully fleshed out as a consequence. So intermix that with good feels and a touch of dirty smex, this had an ending that hints towards more to come (as we all already know). Overall a tidy for now, ending.
December 20, 2015
ETA: link to my review Gay.Guy.Reading and Friends
I'm writing a review for Gay.Guy.Reading and Friends. I'll add a link when it's available.
5 erotic snow sculptures
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'm writing a review for Gay.Guy.Reading and Friends. I'll add a link when it's available.
5 erotic snow sculptures
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 11, 2015
3.5 stars.
I was very excited to read about Paul and Kyle. This book had me at toppy twink. Color me intrigued. When my most recent Cullinan read was Carry the Ocean, I had pretty high hopes. And Cullinan can write, there is no doubt about that. But this one didn't quite live up to that standard.
As I said, the writing was amazing, as usual. But it was the characters that made me not enjoy this story as much as I wish I could have. Kyle had a weak start, but came through in the end. He is 25 and has a baby face. And he's tired of everyone treating him like a teenager. So he decides to leave giant penis ice sculptures on his crush's porch. Well - that's a sign of maturity. That will make people treat you like a grown up! But Kyle made me come around, and I really liked him.
Paul, however, spent the entire book being a doormat. He ran away from good things and ran toward people who treat him poorly. Whether that's his family or boyfriends, it doesn't matter. I'm all for turning the other cheek in certain situations, but come on! Sometimes a verbal smackdown is warranted! And it was warranted in this book for Paul's family, specifically his sister. That never happened.
The love story was very beautiful, and the steam was fair. The ending was a bit abrupt and out of left field, but overall a good read, if not great. Some will definitely love this, and it is Cullinan. It's just not as great as some of her other stories. For a holiday-themed book, it was lovely.
I was very excited to read about Paul and Kyle. This book had me at toppy twink. Color me intrigued. When my most recent Cullinan read was Carry the Ocean, I had pretty high hopes. And Cullinan can write, there is no doubt about that. But this one didn't quite live up to that standard.
As I said, the writing was amazing, as usual. But it was the characters that made me not enjoy this story as much as I wish I could have. Kyle had a weak start, but came through in the end. He is 25 and has a baby face. And he's tired of everyone treating him like a teenager. So he decides to leave giant penis ice sculptures on his crush's porch. Well - that's a sign of maturity. That will make people treat you like a grown up! But Kyle made me come around, and I really liked him.
Paul, however, spent the entire book being a doormat. He ran away from good things and ran toward people who treat him poorly. Whether that's his family or boyfriends, it doesn't matter. I'm all for turning the other cheek in certain situations, but come on! Sometimes a verbal smackdown is warranted! And it was warranted in this book for Paul's family, specifically his sister. That never happened.
The love story was very beautiful, and the steam was fair. The ending was a bit abrupt and out of left field, but overall a good read, if not great. Some will definitely love this, and it is Cullinan. It's just not as great as some of her other stories. For a holiday-themed book, it was lovely.
December 8, 2019
Spoiler Ahead This was book 3 in the
" Minnesota Christmas"
and it was a pretty good book. Paul Jansen who we met in book one of this series was the only one of his friends who wanted a relationship. Naturally, he’s the last single man standing. No gay man within a fifty-mile radius wants more than casual sex. Kyle Parks is 25 year old and knows what he wants and he wants Paul so he leaves him penises made of snow on his front steps. Although Paul found it funny the people and his family didn't find it funny. I really felt bad for Paul his family was a piece of work they didn't approve of him being gay so they put him down. I also liked how Gabriel and Corrina step up to help Kyle win Paul. The sex scenes were hot between these two. This book was well written like the rest of the books in this series with no errors in grammar or spelling. I hope that there is another book in this series.
February 4, 2016
4.5 stars
Yet another charming and very wintery tale from small-town Logan, Minnesota. In this one, the third bear, Paul, finds his very unexpected love with the much younger (and very toppy) twink, Kyle. Oh, and I just adored Kyle. Who wouldn't fall in love with him?! This was heartwarming and sexy and so feel good. It's a perfect book when you're trying to keep warm in front of the fire on a cold winter's night.
Yet another charming and very wintery tale from small-town Logan, Minnesota. In this one, the third bear, Paul, finds his very unexpected love with the much younger (and very toppy) twink, Kyle. Oh, and I just adored Kyle. Who wouldn't fall in love with him?! This was heartwarming and sexy and so feel good. It's a perfect book when you're trying to keep warm in front of the fire on a cold winter's night.
January 1, 2016
♥ ♥ ♥ 3.5 STARS ♥ ♥ ♥
It was a tad bit on the boring side. But was still overall good. I loved Kyle and his snow penises.
November 16, 2015
3.75 stars
I've been reading holiday books since late September. Honestly, I'm a bit ashamed, because I'm one of those people who complains very loudly when holiday music pops up on the radio right after Halloween. I know, I'm a hypocrite.
But it's November now, and there's some nonsense about Starbucks cups, so I'm going to assume that the holiday season has officially begun.
Small-town Christmas romance? Yes please!
I've wanted to read Paul's story ever since I read Sleigh Ride last year. As much as I loved Arthur and Gabriel together, I couldn't help but feel for Paul being the odd man out. And despite my initial skepticism, "too-young, too-twinky Kyle Parks" was the perfect love interest for Paul.
Paul and Kyle's relationship gave me the warm fuzzy feeling that I look for in a holiday romance. I loved how Kyle went out of his way to bring Paul the attention and care he'd so obviously been deprived of. While Paul's behaviour at first made me want to slap him upside the head, I could understand where he was coming from. Once Paul got with the program, I was doing my happy dance.
The sex. Hawt. The toppy twink and the submissive bear. That totally worked for me.
Re-visiting Logan, Minnesota was a fun time. I liked seeing how the town has grown from book 1. It was great to catch up with the couples of the previous books. And I think what was even better was getting to see more of Corrina, Arthur's mother. I've put that woman on a mental pedestal, and I'm not taking her off anytime soon.
My only complaint is that
'Winter Wonderland' was a really good holiday romance, and if this is the last book in the Minnesota series, I think this was a good place to end.
I've been reading holiday books since late September. Honestly, I'm a bit ashamed, because I'm one of those people who complains very loudly when holiday music pops up on the radio right after Halloween. I know, I'm a hypocrite.
But it's November now, and there's some nonsense about Starbucks cups, so I'm going to assume that the holiday season has officially begun.
Small-town Christmas romance? Yes please!
I've wanted to read Paul's story ever since I read Sleigh Ride last year. As much as I loved Arthur and Gabriel together, I couldn't help but feel for Paul being the odd man out. And despite my initial skepticism, "too-young, too-twinky Kyle Parks" was the perfect love interest for Paul.
Paul and Kyle's relationship gave me the warm fuzzy feeling that I look for in a holiday romance. I loved how Kyle went out of his way to bring Paul the attention and care he'd so obviously been deprived of. While Paul's behaviour at first made me want to slap him upside the head, I could understand where he was coming from. Once Paul got with the program, I was doing my happy dance.
The sex. Hawt. The toppy twink and the submissive bear. That totally worked for me.
Re-visiting Logan, Minnesota was a fun time. I liked seeing how the town has grown from book 1. It was great to catch up with the couples of the previous books. And I think what was even better was getting to see more of Corrina, Arthur's mother. I've put that woman on a mental pedestal, and I'm not taking her off anytime soon.
My only complaint is that
'Winter Wonderland' was a really good holiday romance, and if this is the last book in the Minnesota series, I think this was a good place to end.
November 9, 2015
Among the many authors in the M/M genre, both seasoned and new, Heidi Cullinan stands out for the sheer quality of her prose, the deep understanding of her characters and the subtle sense of humor that permeates her every page. All these defining characteristics were present in Cullinan’s earliest work, but as she matures, they become more pronounced and each of her books brings forth a new surprise.
I must confess that I adored the previous two books in this series. For me, they’re a sure sign that Christmas is coming in its full romantic shine. I love romance as much as the next person, but there’s something so special about holiday stories, and especially those that take place around Christmas. After all, we all dream about our very own Christmas miracles and we love to witness them happening to others, fictional or otherwise.
Paul Jansen and Kyle Parks make a very odd pair, but that’s usually true for Heidi’s boys. We remember Paul from the previous two books and we remember that he was not our favorite. But as we learn more about him, some of his past actions become more understandable, if not entirely justified. Paul may seem like a bear on the outside, but he is a delicate, vulnerable, soft-hearted man on the inside. In fact, both of these men crush stereotypes left and right, which is precisely the sort of thing I appreciate. Being Christmas-themed, these books are a bit lighter than Heidi’s usual work, but the overall tone, the characters and everything else can only be described as perfect for the holidays.
Winter Wonderland is a fairly quick read, but that only makes it all the more appealing. It’s easy to reread in winter months and it basically guarantees the same level of delight each time you decide to pick it up. All three books have made it to my ‘comfort reread’ list were they’re sure to stay for many years to come.
November 18, 2015
Winter Wonderland is the third book (and my favorite) of the Minnesota Christmas series. What's not to love? We get a toppy twink who needs to take charge and a teddy bear who needs to let go - not just of the normal stresses of life, but especially of a poisonous family. And penis snow sculptures, no way will I ever forget those.
I absolutely LOVE the toppy twink/submissive bear dynamic (there is no BDSM here, though, it's just the best analogy I could think of). We see the opposite all the time, and I really enjoyed this particular dynamic.
Paul has always put up with his family's hate and vitriol, thinking if he just endured it, then it would be over more quickly. Oh, no, Paul. They were only killing you slowly, and it broke my heart to see. Paul's family left him so unsure of himself, and feeling unworthy, that he never let himself get too close. Arthur came the closest, but Arthur only wanted to keep things casual. And then he went and fell for the town librarian and that was that. So, now with his two best friends paired up, Paul is left feeling like a fifth wheel and thinking he'll never have someone for himself.
And, Kyle, oh Kyle. He's been half in love with Paul forever. But getting Paul to actually notice him takes a tremendous amount of work. And Arthur's managing mother. Kyle looks much younger than he is and most people dismiss him as if he were a teenager. But Kyle is more formidable than he looks, and when he can't get Paul to notice him, he takes more drastic measures. I've got to hand it to Kyle, the snow penises were pretty ingenious. And though, if I found them on my own front step, I'd be more than a little creeped out, Kyle made them completely endearing.
So, pull up a chair and get some hot cocoa (I'll have mine with chocolate liquor, please; and marshmallows) and get ready for some holiday cheer! Oh, and Paul's family, who will not fill you with cheer, but more probably murderous thoughts. Kyle's family, though, is what a family should be. They love each other and support each other. And you won't be able to help but fall in love with Kyle's twin sister, Linda Kay. She has Downs Syndrome, and some of the best lines in the book.
Winter Wonderland is about family (if not the family you're born to, then the family you choose), and Christmas, and happy ever afters. It's about figuring out that you don't, in fact, have to just accept the hate and negativity. And, most importantly, it's about love. The very best kind of love.
I absolutely LOVE the toppy twink/submissive bear dynamic (there is no BDSM here, though, it's just the best analogy I could think of). We see the opposite all the time, and I really enjoyed this particular dynamic.
Paul has always put up with his family's hate and vitriol, thinking if he just endured it, then it would be over more quickly. Oh, no, Paul. They were only killing you slowly, and it broke my heart to see. Paul's family left him so unsure of himself, and feeling unworthy, that he never let himself get too close. Arthur came the closest, but Arthur only wanted to keep things casual. And then he went and fell for the town librarian and that was that. So, now with his two best friends paired up, Paul is left feeling like a fifth wheel and thinking he'll never have someone for himself.
And, Kyle, oh Kyle. He's been half in love with Paul forever. But getting Paul to actually notice him takes a tremendous amount of work. And Arthur's managing mother. Kyle looks much younger than he is and most people dismiss him as if he were a teenager. But Kyle is more formidable than he looks, and when he can't get Paul to notice him, he takes more drastic measures. I've got to hand it to Kyle, the snow penises were pretty ingenious. And though, if I found them on my own front step, I'd be more than a little creeped out, Kyle made them completely endearing.
So, pull up a chair and get some hot cocoa (I'll have mine with chocolate liquor, please; and marshmallows) and get ready for some holiday cheer! Oh, and Paul's family, who will not fill you with cheer, but more probably murderous thoughts. Kyle's family, though, is what a family should be. They love each other and support each other. And you won't be able to help but fall in love with Kyle's twin sister, Linda Kay. She has Downs Syndrome, and some of the best lines in the book.
Winter Wonderland is about family (if not the family you're born to, then the family you choose), and Christmas, and happy ever afters. It's about figuring out that you don't, in fact, have to just accept the hate and negativity. And, most importantly, it's about love. The very best kind of love.
November 17, 2015
*** 4.25 Stars ***
December 29, 2015
You had me at:
May 13, 2024
This is a part of a series that follows a handful of gay men in a small town in Minnesota... Marcus, Arthur and Paul, three "bears", three best friends, as they try to find their forever partners. In this story we get to see Paul, who is the neediest of the entire bunch, finally find his forever love.... well not right away... first we have to have a little bit of angst and drama. Paul is from a quite conservative family. Poor guy…. He’s a big "bear", but he’s also a big mess...a mess of anxiety, a complete lack of confidence, and some other oddities that you would never suspect considering that he is a big "bear". He has his friends, he’s dated, but he can’t ever seem to connect with the right guy. He’s lonely but he’s so tied up in his own head that he can’t see what is right in front of him. Kyle Parks. the Resident Twink. So much so that "Look at me I'm a twink" should have been written in bright, glowing florescent paint across his forehead. He finally decides he’s waited long enough and he’s going to get "his man" come Hell or high water. He starts by trying his luck with Grindr, which doesn’t work so well. Next, he tries his personal specialty, snow sculptures...and leaves a lovely creation on Paul’s front porch. I won't say what it was, but let's just say that the town was NOT amused. I, however laughed and snickered through the rest of the story. Paul is not too impressed either. He eventually enlists the help of resident "busybody" Corrina, who helps him come up with a plan of attack. Kyle, after a few more "mishaps" gets his man, and we get a very sweet holiday story. I loved this book along with poor Paul and all his drama, and Kyle and his strength and willpower to not give up his cause, even if some of his methods were a bit on the questionable side. The plot that runs through it about trying to save this small town was a great backdrop to Paul and Kyle’s love story. The little details in this book that worked so well...like Holiday movies, snow sculptures, cooking together, friends, food, family...it was a perfect way to spend a memorable Christmas.
January 4, 2016
This was a good addition to the series, and I was pleased to see Paul find his happy ending. Kyle was wonderful as the toppy twink trying to move out from under the general perception of him as a "good kid", rather than a grown man. If his patience felt a bit super-human, it didn't make me love him less. The secondary characters filled in the richness of the story a lot. I liked that Kyle's sister, Linda Kaye, was generally a sweet and cheerful person with Down Syndrome, and yet her limitations sometimes did cause stress and complications or concerns to the family. Kyle's acceptance and care for her meant more, because they came with some cost to him as well.
Paul was a little less colorful than I expected from seeing him previously. I also wished there was just a bit more resolution between him and his hurtful family. (Realistically, sometimes those gaps don't get either bridged, or burned, but this felt up in the air enough to almost make me want another book to tie up loose ends.) I also wondered how Kyle's sister was going to deal with losing a lot of him to his new relationship. He wasn't going to be able to be there for her as unceasingly as in the past, while giving Paul what he needed, and I anticipated that being hard on both of them. I wanted to see him have to compromise, to find a workable center in his life. For once, he wouldn't be able to do it all. So the end felt a bit rushed and open. Still a very enjoyable series, and I loved the glimpses of the other couples and familiar secondary characters as the story moved along.
Paul was a little less colorful than I expected from seeing him previously. I also wished there was just a bit more resolution between him and his hurtful family. (Realistically, sometimes those gaps don't get either bridged, or burned, but this felt up in the air enough to almost make me want another book to tie up loose ends.) I also wondered how Kyle's sister was going to deal with losing a lot of him to his new relationship. He wasn't going to be able to be there for her as unceasingly as in the past, while giving Paul what he needed, and I anticipated that being hard on both of them. I wanted to see him have to compromise, to find a workable center in his life. For once, he wouldn't be able to do it all. So the end felt a bit rushed and open. Still a very enjoyable series, and I loved the glimpses of the other couples and familiar secondary characters as the story moved along.
March 14, 2016
Book #2 is still my favorite...
I actually finished this one a few days ago, but I think I've been in a bit of a Christmas slump and just haven't had the motivation to get around to the review...but I really did enjoy this one.
I liked Paul and Kyle together they were really sweet. I liked the fact that Kyle wasn't intimidated by their age difference and that in spite of his occasional insecurities he still went after what he wanted, which was Paul. While Paul may have resisted initially and to me it was a very believable thing given his family (I'd like to shot punt the lot of them into a snowbank.) and the age difference between him and Kyle. It was fun to have the Frankie & Marcus as well as Gabriel & Arthur as a part of Kyle & Paul's story without taking over the focus of the story.
While book #2 remains my favorite I have thoroughly enjoyed all 3 of these books and can't help but wonder whether this is the last story in this series or not. Part of me definitely hopes not as I found myself a little intrigued by Marcus's friend Dale and wondered if there wasn't a HEA waiting for him in this lovely little town of Logan, Minnesota.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 because no still 1/2 stars here on GR and I think if my Christmas cheer had been around more, I probably would have enjoyed this one even more than I did.
I actually finished this one a few days ago, but I think I've been in a bit of a Christmas slump and just haven't had the motivation to get around to the review...but I really did enjoy this one.
I liked Paul and Kyle together they were really sweet. I liked the fact that Kyle wasn't intimidated by their age difference and that in spite of his occasional insecurities he still went after what he wanted, which was Paul. While Paul may have resisted initially and to me it was a very believable thing given his family (I'd like to shot punt the lot of them into a snowbank.) and the age difference between him and Kyle. It was fun to have the Frankie & Marcus as well as Gabriel & Arthur as a part of Kyle & Paul's story without taking over the focus of the story.
While book #2 remains my favorite I have thoroughly enjoyed all 3 of these books and can't help but wonder whether this is the last story in this series or not. Part of me definitely hopes not as I found myself a little intrigued by Marcus's friend Dale and wondered if there wasn't a HEA waiting for him in this lovely little town of Logan, Minnesota.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 because no still 1/2 stars here on GR and I think if my Christmas cheer had been around more, I probably would have enjoyed this one even more than I did.
November 12, 2015
Totally adorable, perfect holiday read, and a great ending(?) to this series, if that's what it is. Kyle was adorably toppy, which was such a treat, and Paul was so wonderful in his insecurities and his needs. I love this tiny little town in Minnesota and really hope that I get to visit it again next year!
January 9, 2016
I love this series and like just about everyone else, I couldn't wait for Paul's story. It was going to take someone incredibly special to give Paul his HEA and the author couldn't have put together a better partner for him than Kyle.
I wanted to hug Paul forever and always. I wanted to have Kyle in my life just to make it brighter. Paul broke my heart, but I was also so proud and happy for him for not letting his upbringing ruin his future.
There were two scenes that cemented these two for me. At 83%, when Paul was watching Kyle and Linda Kay and Kyle's mom handed him cocoa? That part? Yeah. That part was it. I was completely confident in Kyle's feels, but Paul had a fuckton of baggage to wade through and I was with Kyle, Paul could bolt for the hills at any moment. It all felt so fragile and scary and hopeful at the same time. The second, when Kyle was alone after his mom and sis stormed the town meeting and acted like complete shitheels, that was the second, Paul finally felt something other than defeat and fear and I was so happy for him. He wouldn't have felt that if he didn't have Kyle's strength giving him confidence, but the revelation was all his.
The ending was a smidge abrupt, but because it was Paul, I knew how his and Kyle's HEA was going to roll out. There were plenty of clues along the way. I just want to read them in detail. So, it's not like I was left hanging in any way, I just wanted to have more especially since Paul was really finding his way in his own skin and believing in his own HEA too.
Being that this is Heidi Cullinan, the Queen of Fuck Mountain (thank you Cupcake) there was plenty of dirty to go along with the sweet. This book really reminded me why I like her characters so much. They aren't forced into their boxes and are more than their labels. And it reads in a really organic way. What you may think you are going to read in a stereotypical character is nothing like what you are going to get and I love it. I get to discover who an MC really is right along with their love interest. It's filthy, fun and each romp is a tasty little surprise into what turns each guys crank.
This series is going into my comfy Christmas reread pile of happiness. I met a new friend not long ago from MN. I'm not sure how he and I ended up on the topic of MM romance, I'm pretty sure copious amounts of vodka were involved, and he had no idea the genre even existed. I bought this series for him for Christmas and he is HOOKED. It's so fun to be able to share the love with a new convert and we've been messaging back and forth as we read this one. That amped my enjoyment level up of course and I couldn't have found a better series to share with a new reader.
I wanted to hug Paul forever and always. I wanted to have Kyle in my life just to make it brighter. Paul broke my heart, but I was also so proud and happy for him for not letting his upbringing ruin his future.
There were two scenes that cemented these two for me. At 83%, when Paul was watching Kyle and Linda Kay and Kyle's mom handed him cocoa? That part? Yeah. That part was it. I was completely confident in Kyle's feels, but Paul had a fuckton of baggage to wade through and I was with Kyle, Paul could bolt for the hills at any moment. It all felt so fragile and scary and hopeful at the same time. The second, when Kyle was alone after his mom and sis stormed the town meeting and acted like complete shitheels, that was the second, Paul finally felt something other than defeat and fear and I was so happy for him. He wouldn't have felt that if he didn't have Kyle's strength giving him confidence, but the revelation was all his.
The ending was a smidge abrupt, but because it was Paul, I knew how his and Kyle's HEA was going to roll out. There were plenty of clues along the way. I just want to read them in detail. So, it's not like I was left hanging in any way, I just wanted to have more especially since Paul was really finding his way in his own skin and believing in his own HEA too.
Being that this is Heidi Cullinan, the Queen of Fuck Mountain (thank you Cupcake) there was plenty of dirty to go along with the sweet. This book really reminded me why I like her characters so much. They aren't forced into their boxes and are more than their labels. And it reads in a really organic way. What you may think you are going to read in a stereotypical character is nothing like what you are going to get and I love it. I get to discover who an MC really is right along with their love interest. It's filthy, fun and each romp is a tasty little surprise into what turns each guys crank.
This series is going into my comfy Christmas reread pile of happiness. I met a new friend not long ago from MN. I'm not sure how he and I ended up on the topic of MM romance, I'm pretty sure copious amounts of vodka were involved, and he had no idea the genre even existed. I bought this series for him for Christmas and he is HOOKED. It's so fun to be able to share the love with a new convert and we've been messaging back and forth as we read this one. That amped my enjoyment level up of course and I couldn't have found a better series to share with a new reader.
December 13, 2016
*** This is an amazing Christmas romance !! We get deeply emotional characters, with a heartwarming tale and super hot sexiness. Wow ! Paul has a mystery. Who is leaving snow sculptures of penises on his doorstep? Kyle, who has wanted Paul for a long time has figured out how to get his attention. Sweet, tall, femme Kyle, wants hunky, hairy bear Paul, and not just for a quickie, but forever. The guys are working on the Winter Festival and getting to know each other, but Paul is worried. He's had so much bad luck with guys, and his family is mean, verbally abusive to him about his sexuality. Kyle's family is just the opposite, open, caring and accepting. Kyle's sister, Linda Kay is delightful, and his parents are very understanding. Their relationship is rocky at first, but moves along, with long talks, hot sex, and deep yearning and need. The town's people are fabulous, with all the characters we've come to know and new ones, too. Paul's family and bigot friends under the guise of religion are horrible, and it's too bad these kinds of people are in real life, too. They are the ones missing out on the awesomeness of their son and his friends. Paul realizes he can have a family with Kyle, Kyle's family, their friends, Edna, and many more. Time to move on and be happy.
This is book three of the Minnesota Christmas series, and I recommend it highly. ENJOY !!!
This is book three of the Minnesota Christmas series, and I recommend it highly. ENJOY !!!
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