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Heartbreaker Bay #2.5
One Snowy Night
New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis returns to Heartbreaker Bay with a fun and festive holiday novella!
It’s Christmas Eve and Rory Andrews is desperate to get home to the family she hasn’t seen in years. Problem is, her only ride to Lake Tahoe comes in the form of the annoyingly handsome Max Stranton, and his big, goofy, lovable dog Carl.
Hours stuck in a truck with the dead sexy Max sounds like a fate worse than death (not), but Rory’s out of options. She’s had a crush on Max since high school and she knows he’s attracted to her, too. But they have history… and Max is the only one who knows why it went south.
They’ve done a good job of ignoring their chemistry so far, but a long road trip in a massive blizzard might be just what they need to face their past… and one steamy, snowy night is all it takes to bring Max and Rory together at last.
It’s Christmas Eve and Rory Andrews is desperate to get home to the family she hasn’t seen in years. Problem is, her only ride to Lake Tahoe comes in the form of the annoyingly handsome Max Stranton, and his big, goofy, lovable dog Carl.
Hours stuck in a truck with the dead sexy Max sounds like a fate worse than death (not), but Rory’s out of options. She’s had a crush on Max since high school and she knows he’s attracted to her, too. But they have history… and Max is the only one who knows why it went south.
They’ve done a good job of ignoring their chemistry so far, but a long road trip in a massive blizzard might be just what they need to face their past… and one steamy, snowy night is all it takes to bring Max and Rory together at last.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 8, 2016
467 people are currently reading
2253 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
389 books13.8k followersJill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
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November 14, 2016
One Snowy Night is book #2.5 in the Heartbreaker Bay series by Jill Shalvis. This is a perfect little holiday novella that is sure to get your holiday spirit jump started.
Rory Andrews works in the pet shop for Willa. She loves her job and has worked hard to make a life for herself in San Francisco. But she’s not proud of the way she was back when she was a teenager. She had trouble fitting in and was the target of the school mean girl. She left home at age seventeen and hasn’t been back since. This year for Christmas, it’s time to make things right. For the first time in six years she is going home for Christmas. Unfortunately, it seems like her only ride is with Max, the object of her teenage fantasies. He has been working for Archer at the security firm in her building for the last year and brings his dog in often for grooming. The last thing her nerves need now is to be trapped in a truck cab for several hours with him.
Max Stranton’s dog has probably never been cleaner since he gets more baths than he needs. He just can’t seem to stay away from the pet shop and Rory. He doesn’t want to like her. He should hate her for what she did back in high school. But he didn’t hesitate a second when Willa told him that Rory needed a ride home for Christmas.
What started as a rain storm in San Francisco quickly changed to sleet and then to snow the higher they climbed. It’s a full fledged blizzard now. With traffic accidents, pit stops, escaping dogs and plenty of other things, their trip suffers several delays. So Max and Rory finally have plenty of opportunity to hash out the past. Max finally gets the whole story about what happened six years ago. These two were so perfect for each other. I loved watching their connection grow and blossom. And even though Rory needed to get home on time, when given the opportunity to go ahead without him or stay with him and wait, she stayed.
I have loved the Heartbreaker Bay series from the start and am so glad we got this addition. I am so excited about the next full length novel due out the end of January, Accidentally On Purpose, which will be Elle and Archer’s story.
Rory Andrews works in the pet shop for Willa. She loves her job and has worked hard to make a life for herself in San Francisco. But she’s not proud of the way she was back when she was a teenager. She had trouble fitting in and was the target of the school mean girl. She left home at age seventeen and hasn’t been back since. This year for Christmas, it’s time to make things right. For the first time in six years she is going home for Christmas. Unfortunately, it seems like her only ride is with Max, the object of her teenage fantasies. He has been working for Archer at the security firm in her building for the last year and brings his dog in often for grooming. The last thing her nerves need now is to be trapped in a truck cab for several hours with him.
Max Stranton’s dog has probably never been cleaner since he gets more baths than he needs. He just can’t seem to stay away from the pet shop and Rory. He doesn’t want to like her. He should hate her for what she did back in high school. But he didn’t hesitate a second when Willa told him that Rory needed a ride home for Christmas.
What started as a rain storm in San Francisco quickly changed to sleet and then to snow the higher they climbed. It’s a full fledged blizzard now. With traffic accidents, pit stops, escaping dogs and plenty of other things, their trip suffers several delays. So Max and Rory finally have plenty of opportunity to hash out the past. Max finally gets the whole story about what happened six years ago. These two were so perfect for each other. I loved watching their connection grow and blossom. And even though Rory needed to get home on time, when given the opportunity to go ahead without him or stay with him and wait, she stayed.
I have loved the Heartbreaker Bay series from the start and am so glad we got this addition. I am so excited about the next full length novel due out the end of January, Accidentally On Purpose, which will be Elle and Archer’s story.
December 8, 2025
Ridiculously unbelievable with shallow, juvenile characters and actions. I have not read the previous books in this series, but I don't think that would have helped boost my rating by much. As others have said, Carl the dog is the most interesting character. Skip this one if you have not read the previous books in the series.
December 8, 2018
4 stars!!
One Snowy Night is a cute Christmas novella about Rory and Max. Rory is stuck in a truck with Max, a guy she knew from high school. There is something between them, a pull, but neither one of them have ever given in to it. There’s a snowstorm and they find themselves faced with truths about their pasts and realizations about what they both want from the future. This novella took place in a span of 24 hours. It was quick to listen to, and as I’m trying to get some Christmas reads in to put me in the spirit, it hit the spot! I really enjoyed it. Even though it says it’s book 2.5, it can be read as a stand-alone.
One Snowy Night is a cute Christmas novella about Rory and Max. Rory is stuck in a truck with Max, a guy she knew from high school. There is something between them, a pull, but neither one of them have ever given in to it. There’s a snowstorm and they find themselves faced with truths about their pasts and realizations about what they both want from the future. This novella took place in a span of 24 hours. It was quick to listen to, and as I’m trying to get some Christmas reads in to put me in the spirit, it hit the spot! I really enjoyed it. Even though it says it’s book 2.5, it can be read as a stand-alone.
November 4, 2016
There are two sides to this story...
Well, that was short and sweet. I've wanted Rory's story since reading the last instalment of the Heartbreaker Bay series, The Trouble with Mistletoe. She's a tough cookie who ran away from home at 17 and has survived a traumatic experience. Luckily, that traumatic experience also landed her in the path of Willa (heroine from The Trouble with Mistletoe) who gave her a job and a wee bit of hope. Rory's job put her in a position where she has come face to face with her past.
Max and his dog Carl make a regular trip to South Bark Mutt Shop for Carl to get groomed. Now, Carl's a Doberman and doesn't really need a weekly grooming but Max can't stop. He's got it BAD for the groomer. Max has known Rory for years but a decision she made rocked his whole world in a bad way. Doesn't seem to stop him wanting her, though.
It's Christmas and both Rory and Max have plans to return home to Tahoe to visit family. When Max finds out from Willa that Rory was planning to take the bus, he jumps at the chance to drive her. At first things are a little strained but they eventually talk and get things sorted.
One Snowy Night was a cute little novella that packed a punch. I'm glad I got to see Rory all sorted out and that Max was the one to help with that.
Most of my thoughts and feelings were positive (no surprise there as it is a Jill Shalvis) but I did struggle with a couple of things. I probably didn't need to see him have his friend (with benefits) wish him a Merry Christmas. Let's just say she was a wee bit exuberant. Also, I know it's a novella and there's a lot to cover in a short story, but I can't help but roll my eyes a little when the L word gets mentioned. I swear I roll my eyes every bloody time but deep down I do love the insta-lust/love that sometimes happen.
It was all good...I just wished it was longer. I love the Heartbreaker Bay series and I can't wait for Accidentally On Purpose.
To purchase One Snowy Night from Amazon - http://amzn.to/2ehx0Ct
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
October 24, 2016
3.5 - "Merry Christmas... You deserve it." Stars!
One Snowy Night is a novella that I have been itching too read since we were introduced to Rory in the last book of the Heartbreaker Bay series. Jill teased readers that this was a woman with as past, and this little Christmas treat gives you the answers.
This is a really quick, and I mean really, really quick novella. If memory serves the story actually finished around the 70% mark, and it is a shame really because it did make the story for Rory and Max feel a little on the rushed side for me. I also found that using almost the identical trope in relation to their connection as was used in The Trouble with Mistletoe made the novella feel a little repetitive in story-telling.
"Use the past to fix the now… You make your mistakes – which is allowed, by the way. After all, you’re only human, but you learn from them. Grow from them. Things can’t always be forgotten, but they can be forgiven."
As my rating attests, I still really enjoyed this novella, Jill’s writing style just pulls me in, and I cannot help but connect with the characters, and I absolutely fell in love with Carl the dog, but I was just hoping for a little more of everything with and for this couple.
"Take a chance… Take the risk."
As with every series that I read from this author, Heartbreaker Bay and its inhabitants have definitely got a story or two left to tell. Accidentally on Purpose is due, January 2017, Elle and Archer have also been simmering through the previous books in the series too, so I am itching to see what sort of story Jill has in store for them.
"So… where were we?"
ARC generously provided by the publisher, via InkSlinger PR, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
One Snowy Night is a novella that I have been itching too read since we were introduced to Rory in the last book of the Heartbreaker Bay series. Jill teased readers that this was a woman with as past, and this little Christmas treat gives you the answers.
This is a really quick, and I mean really, really quick novella. If memory serves the story actually finished around the 70% mark, and it is a shame really because it did make the story for Rory and Max feel a little on the rushed side for me. I also found that using almost the identical trope in relation to their connection as was used in The Trouble with Mistletoe made the novella feel a little repetitive in story-telling.
"Use the past to fix the now… You make your mistakes – which is allowed, by the way. After all, you’re only human, but you learn from them. Grow from them. Things can’t always be forgotten, but they can be forgiven."
As my rating attests, I still really enjoyed this novella, Jill’s writing style just pulls me in, and I cannot help but connect with the characters, and I absolutely fell in love with Carl the dog, but I was just hoping for a little more of everything with and for this couple.
"Take a chance… Take the risk."
As with every series that I read from this author, Heartbreaker Bay and its inhabitants have definitely got a story or two left to tell. Accidentally on Purpose is due, January 2017, Elle and Archer have also been simmering through the previous books in the series too, so I am itching to see what sort of story Jill has in store for them.
"So… where were we?"
ARC generously provided by the publisher, via InkSlinger PR, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
March 25, 2018
4 'Snowy Love' Stars!
Yeah, I know it's almost April and this is a Christmas story but it seems I am becoming addicted to Jill Shalvis and her Heartbreaker Bay series. I was in the mood for something short and light between reads and One Swony Night definitely did not disappoint me! I loved seeing Rory get her happy ending with Max and his adorable dog Carl. I would have wanted an epilogue at the end but besides that I really enjoyed this sweet and christmasy novella!
Yeah, I know it's almost April and this is a Christmas story but it seems I am becoming addicted to Jill Shalvis and her Heartbreaker Bay series. I was in the mood for something short and light between reads and One Swony Night definitely did not disappoint me! I loved seeing Rory get her happy ending with Max and his adorable dog Carl. I would have wanted an epilogue at the end but besides that I really enjoyed this sweet and christmasy novella!
November 7, 2016
This review can also be found at Carole's Random Life.
I really enjoyed this novella. The Heartbreaker Bay series has been just wonderful so far and this story features a couple of characters that we have met in previous books. The story is short but there really is a whole lot going on between these characters. It was really nice to watch Max and Rory open up with each other and begin there new relationship.
It is Christmas Eve and Rory wants to go home to visit family for the first time in a number of years. Max grew up in the same town as Rory so he volunteers to give her a ride. They have a lot of chemistry but they also have some history standing in their way. As Max, Rory, and Max's dog, Carl make their way home for the holiday, they run into some bad weather that changes their plans.
I liked Max and Rory together. They both have some issues from their interconnected past that have affected their lives. I liked how open they were with each other and really let the truth come out. It turns out that things were not exactly what they seemed. They have strong attraction to each other that really was hard to ignore. Now that everything is out on the table, there is nothing stopping them from getting the happily ever after they both deserve.
I would recommend this novella to fans of contemporary romance. This novella is part of the Heartbreaker Bay series and while it could be read as a stand alone, I think that fans of the series will get the most enjoyment from this story. I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss.
I really enjoyed this novella. The Heartbreaker Bay series has been just wonderful so far and this story features a couple of characters that we have met in previous books. The story is short but there really is a whole lot going on between these characters. It was really nice to watch Max and Rory open up with each other and begin there new relationship.
It is Christmas Eve and Rory wants to go home to visit family for the first time in a number of years. Max grew up in the same town as Rory so he volunteers to give her a ride. They have a lot of chemistry but they also have some history standing in their way. As Max, Rory, and Max's dog, Carl make their way home for the holiday, they run into some bad weather that changes their plans.
I liked Max and Rory together. They both have some issues from their interconnected past that have affected their lives. I liked how open they were with each other and really let the truth come out. It turns out that things were not exactly what they seemed. They have strong attraction to each other that really was hard to ignore. Now that everything is out on the table, there is nothing stopping them from getting the happily ever after they both deserve.
I would recommend this novella to fans of contemporary romance. This novella is part of the Heartbreaker Bay series and while it could be read as a stand alone, I think that fans of the series will get the most enjoyment from this story. I can't wait to see what happens next in this series.
I received an advance reader edition of this book from Avon Books via Edelweiss.
November 4, 2016
3.5 Wonderful, Snowy Night Stars!
One Snowy Night is a wonderful holiday novella featuring Rory Andrews who, we’ve learned from previous books, had a very troubled past. In this story she finally returns home to face that past and in the process discovers her future has been right in front of her all along.
Max Stranton is the kind of man I would love to be in love with. He’s strong, dependable, patient, and all kinds of sexy. Together, he and Rory made this holiday story a delight and I’m so, so happy for them!
My only complaint (which is a good kind of complaint) is that I think (and wish) Rory deserves a longer story because she’s just such an awesome woman.
An ARC was provided by Avon Books. In appreciation I’m giving them an honest review.
Blurb… It’s Christmas Eve and Rory Andrews is desperate to get home to the family she hasn’t seen in years. Problem is, her only ride to Lake Tahoe comes in the form of the annoyingly handsome Max Stranton, and his big, goofy, lovable dog Carl.
Hours stuck in a truck with the dead sexy Max sounds like a fate worse than death (not), but Rory’s out of options. She’s had a crush on Max since high school and she knows he’s attracted to her, too. But they have history… and Max is the only one who knows why it went south.
They’ve done a good job of ignoring their chemistry so far, but a long road trip in a massive blizzard might be just what they need to face their past… and one steamy, snowy night is all it takes to bring Max and Rory together at last.
November 16, 2016
4.5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Rory Andrews is a 23 yr. old woman raised in Tahoe. She grew up feeling neglected, & didn't have wonderful memories from her childhood. Between the rocky relationship with her family & being bullied at school, her teen years were awful, & she ran away just after her junior year when she was 17.
Rory now lives in San Francisco & works for a kind lady named Willa at the South Bark Mutt Shop. She got her GED & has really turned her life around in the past few years. She still has regrets from her past with her family, but is happy now.
Rory hasn't been home in years. She decides she is going home to Tahoe for the holidays to face her past & make amends with her family. A gorgeous guy from her home town offers her a ride since they're going the same place. His name is Max Stranton. Max went to high school with Rory & was her first crush. He was the popular jock & she always flew under the radar. They now work in the same building & run into each other a lot. Wanting to save money, Rory accepts the ride home from Max.
Max has always been drawn to Rory & recently makes sure their paths cross often. He's extremely attracted to her, but doesn't want to be. They have a history, & he holds a grudge against her for something she isn't aware of. Most of the time she drove him crazy, but he couldn't deny the physical pull between them. Whether they wanted to admit it, they'd both definitely taken notice of each other, & shared an intense chemistry that always seemed to ignite whenever they got close.
Max & Rory head for Tahoe on Christmas Eve & get stuck for hours together in a blizzard. Rory has always felt flustered around Max & is insanely attracted to him. Things quickly heat up between these two & as they come together they realize how bad they've wanted one another. Max has never felt this way about a woman, & wants Rory to be his, not just for the holidays, but for always.
I really enjoyed this holiday novella & can't wait for Elle & Archer's story next in Accidentally On Purpose. Just love this series!
-"You're the one for me, Rory."
-"I want you, Max. I always have."
-"I want it all."
(ARC provided by author)
Rory Andrews is a 23 yr. old woman raised in Tahoe. She grew up feeling neglected, & didn't have wonderful memories from her childhood. Between the rocky relationship with her family & being bullied at school, her teen years were awful, & she ran away just after her junior year when she was 17.
Rory now lives in San Francisco & works for a kind lady named Willa at the South Bark Mutt Shop. She got her GED & has really turned her life around in the past few years. She still has regrets from her past with her family, but is happy now.
Rory hasn't been home in years. She decides she is going home to Tahoe for the holidays to face her past & make amends with her family. A gorgeous guy from her home town offers her a ride since they're going the same place. His name is Max Stranton. Max went to high school with Rory & was her first crush. He was the popular jock & she always flew under the radar. They now work in the same building & run into each other a lot. Wanting to save money, Rory accepts the ride home from Max.
Max has always been drawn to Rory & recently makes sure their paths cross often. He's extremely attracted to her, but doesn't want to be. They have a history, & he holds a grudge against her for something she isn't aware of. Most of the time she drove him crazy, but he couldn't deny the physical pull between them. Whether they wanted to admit it, they'd both definitely taken notice of each other, & shared an intense chemistry that always seemed to ignite whenever they got close.
Max & Rory head for Tahoe on Christmas Eve & get stuck for hours together in a blizzard. Rory has always felt flustered around Max & is insanely attracted to him. Things quickly heat up between these two & as they come together they realize how bad they've wanted one another. Max has never felt this way about a woman, & wants Rory to be his, not just for the holidays, but for always.
I really enjoyed this holiday novella & can't wait for Elle & Archer's story next in Accidentally On Purpose. Just love this series!
-"You're the one for me, Rory."
-"I want you, Max. I always have."
-"I want it all."
December 24, 2020
Tenia esta pequeña lectura Navideña pendiente desde hace años, pero ahora que he retomado la saga no podia no leer esta historia, y la verdad es que fue mas adorable de lo que imagine.
Rory y Max ( y Cal ) son tan lindos, tanto que puedo pasar por alto que el desenlace de este libro sea un tanto precipitado, me hubiera convencido mas de haber tenido un par de capitulos mas, sobre todo para que asi el final no se sintiera tan brusco, por lo demas, una novela ideal para esta epoca.
Un relato de Navidad muy alegre y lleno de sentimiento festivo.
2.5 Estrellas!
September 29, 2016
A bit disappointed that 40% of this novella is a teaser for a different book, but I loved Rory, so I was happy to get her story.
I really hope we get to see Rory and Max in the next book because I know I want more of their HEA. The slice of time we got was sweet and fairly angst free. And Carl was adorable.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
I really hope we get to see Rory and Max in the next book because I know I want more of their HEA. The slice of time we got was sweet and fairly angst free. And Carl was adorable.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
December 21, 2018
3.5 stars.
October 17, 2017
Sadly this one didn't work for me. I loved Rory, but Max was an ass. The book started bad for me with another woman (a friend with benefits of his) kissing him in front of Rory and I don't care that they weren't together yet, it still upset me. Then the way he judged her for their past history without knowing all the facts really upset me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2021
Two hours of Christmas-y romance. Sexy fun.
October 17, 2017
One Snowy Night was a novella in the Heartbreaker Bay series by Jill Salvis.
Rory and Max have been part of the series from the beginning. Rory worked for Willa (The Trouble with Mistletoe) and Max worked for Archer (Accidentally on Purpose). They grew up in the same town and went to High School together, but were never really friends. We've seen an attraction in previous books, but we also saw a little hostility. The book opened with Rory hitching a ride home with Max for Christmas, a place she hasn't been to in years.
Salvis started One Snowy Night off by unveiling a mysterious vibe between the two showing they didn't like each other and tried to avoid each other at all costs. We didn't know why, we just knew it was something that each harbored and the other had no clue. The book covers less than twenty four hours but the mystery was finally resolved through a series of events while they were venturing home.
It was a sweet and quick addition to the series and a bridge between books two and three. Hopefully we'll see them fully develop as the series progresses. We finally get Archer and Elle's story next.
Rory and Max have been part of the series from the beginning. Rory worked for Willa (The Trouble with Mistletoe) and Max worked for Archer (Accidentally on Purpose). They grew up in the same town and went to High School together, but were never really friends. We've seen an attraction in previous books, but we also saw a little hostility. The book opened with Rory hitching a ride home with Max for Christmas, a place she hasn't been to in years.
Salvis started One Snowy Night off by unveiling a mysterious vibe between the two showing they didn't like each other and tried to avoid each other at all costs. We didn't know why, we just knew it was something that each harbored and the other had no clue. The book covers less than twenty four hours but the mystery was finally resolved through a series of events while they were venturing home.
It was a sweet and quick addition to the series and a bridge between books two and three. Hopefully we'll see them fully develop as the series progresses. We finally get Archer and Elle's story next.
November 9, 2016
Get excited because Jill Shalvis has written another Christmas-themed novella! If you know me, then you may already know that I love Shalvis’ Christmas novellas. They’re always very sweet and fun, and when you add that does of sexiness, well, it really becomes hard to resist.
ONE SNOWY NIGHT is all about Rory and Sexy Max. The two don’t exactly expect to be spending so much time together when they drive together to Lake Tahoe but it’s inevitable if they both want to get where they are going.
As always, Shalvis injects this story with her trademark wit and charm and I definitely found myself smiling as I read it. They’re just such fun, feel-good reads and you’ll definitely get into the Christmas spirit once you read this story.
ONE SNOWY NIGHT is part of the Heartbreaker Bay series. While the Lucky Harbor series is still probably my all-time favorite series from Shalvis, this one is growing on me more and more. There’s some good banter and even an adorable dog, so you already know it’s going to be a cute little story. At 160 pages, this novella is quite hefty and definitely gives you a detailed story so even if you’re not a huge fan of novellas, this one is long enough to provide a full story. I would high recommend this series if you enjoy small-town romances with a generous heap of humor.
November 16, 2016
I found this one to be quite unbelievable. Max is totally into Rory, but at the same time blames her for ruining his life in high school. So he's mean to her, even though he goes out of his way to see her more often than necessary for dog grooming. After a decade of hating her, she apologizes and now everything is all better - he refuses to let her feel bad about what happened in the past even though he has held a grudge until two minutes ago. And then WHAM, the L-word. The End.
Jill Shalvis is so much better than this nonsense, I dunno WTF she was thinking here. I read this because another reviewer said it was angst-free, when in reality it is 100% angst. And silly angst at that.
Also the story is 112 pages - the rest is a preview for another book.
Jill Shalvis is so much better than this nonsense, I dunno WTF she was thinking here. I read this because another reviewer said it was angst-free, when in reality it is 100% angst. And silly angst at that.
Also the story is 112 pages - the rest is a preview for another book.
September 24, 2019
Se trata de la historia de Rory y Max, dos personajes que ya aparecen en el anterior libro de la serie. Me llamaron la atención y pensé en leer su historia, que únicamente he encontrado en inglés.
Se trata de un viaje en carretera, en Navidad y en medio de una gran nevada, así que resulta ser toda una aventura; ambos personajes han compartido varios "incidentes desafortunados" en el instituto y se reencuentran varios años después y sucede lo inevitable...
La historia me ha parecido bonita, pero al ser tan corta le ha restado verosimilitud; creo que la trama daba para una novela
Se trata de un viaje en carretera, en Navidad y en medio de una gran nevada, así que resulta ser toda una aventura; ambos personajes han compartido varios "incidentes desafortunados" en el instituto y se reencuentran varios años después y sucede lo inevitable...
La historia me ha parecido bonita, pero al ser tan corta le ha restado verosimilitud; creo que la trama daba para una novela
April 7, 2017
3.5 stars
The residents of Heartbreaker Bay captured me in the first book and so I was excited about this holiday novella, One Snowy Night, from Jill Shalvis and while it was very enjoyable I almost feel like it could have been added into the last book as a side love story. Despite the fact I felt like this couple's story deserved and needed more time, I'd rather have this short story than none at all and it was a fun and sexy read.
We've seen Rory and Max circle around each other in the first two books and we know that there is something from their past that they both don't want to talk about; something that makes them keep their distance while quietly checking each other out. When Rory's nosey boss arranges for Max to give her a lift from San Francisco to Tahoe on Christmas Eve, they are forced in close quarters and forced to talk about more than either one is comfortable with. Of course with Max's dog, Carl, as a chaperone they have something to bridge the gap and wreck havoc more than once on their snowy holiday adventure. To be honest Carl kind of stole the show, but I also feel like he was quite excited with the outcome of this story.
I'll admit I was happy to see them work through this issues of their past, but man the last chapter was such a whirlwind I felt like I got whiplash; way to much happened and everything wrapped up a bit too nice and neat given all the issues, but still an enjoyable read.
Review copy provided by Avon for a voluntary review.
The residents of Heartbreaker Bay captured me in the first book and so I was excited about this holiday novella, One Snowy Night, from Jill Shalvis and while it was very enjoyable I almost feel like it could have been added into the last book as a side love story. Despite the fact I felt like this couple's story deserved and needed more time, I'd rather have this short story than none at all and it was a fun and sexy read. We've seen Rory and Max circle around each other in the first two books and we know that there is something from their past that they both don't want to talk about; something that makes them keep their distance while quietly checking each other out. When Rory's nosey boss arranges for Max to give her a lift from San Francisco to Tahoe on Christmas Eve, they are forced in close quarters and forced to talk about more than either one is comfortable with. Of course with Max's dog, Carl, as a chaperone they have something to bridge the gap and wreck havoc more than once on their snowy holiday adventure. To be honest Carl kind of stole the show, but I also feel like he was quite excited with the outcome of this story.
I'll admit I was happy to see them work through this issues of their past, but man the last chapter was such a whirlwind I felt like I got whiplash; way to much happened and everything wrapped up a bit too nice and neat given all the issues, but still an enjoyable read.
Review copy provided by Avon for a voluntary review.
October 13, 2020
Rory ve Max'in bir geçmişi olduğu belliydi bu yüzden hikayelerini çok merak ediyordum. Araya sıkıştırılmış bir novella olarak karşıma gelmiş olsa da beğendim.
November 19, 2016
Jill Shalvis’ Heartbreaker Bay series has been full of charm and swoons. I can’t get enough of these loveable characters, which is why even though I strongly dislike novellas, I was eager to pick up One Snowy Night. This short story, while too short in my opinion, was still a lovely book that put a huge smile on my face.
We met Rory and Max in the previous book and there was definitely some underlying tension between them in that one, and I knew that that same tension would be sizzling in their book. As expected, the chemistry between Rory and Max in One Snowy Night was palpable all throughout this novella. These two had some issues to work through. They knew each other as teenagers and they unknowingly caused some heartbreak to each other. So being stuck together in a truck is the perfect opportunity for them to talk it out. Despite the initial anger the two shared, there was obviously some underlying fierce attracting and need to protect each other. I thought they were so sweet together and I couldn’t wait for them to make up. I will admit that things happened a little fast for my liking. I’m being selfish, but I would have loved to have a longer story of these two.
As characters, both Rory and Max shined, though probably not as much as the previous characters in the series. Still though, these are two characters who were very very hard to dislike. They had their stupid moments when I wanted to smack some senses into them, but I liked that they eventually talked through their issues. We get to see them as high school students through memories and again, I would have liked it better if I had gotten to know them more through a longer book.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick, romantic and charming introduction to Jill Shalvis’ writing, then I think One Snowy Night is the perfect place to start. Or if you just want a Christmassy book, this is the one for you!
October 3, 2016
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2dL4JCj
One Snowy Night was a cute Christmasy treat. A little sassy, a little sexy, and a whole lot snowy. See, Rory, Max, and his pup Carl are head home for the holidays and land themselves one heck of a road trip. Snow storms, car trouble, exuberant pup pups and an elephant in the truck--dealing with some bad blood from back when they were teenagers. Yes. It's one adventurous and eventful evening that'll change everything.
I liked Rory and Max. They drive each other crazy, still harbor some bad feelings over the past, but damn they have one serious case of the lusts for each other despite it all. It's always fun watching that dynamic. The cozy quarters during the road trip made for some heated moments as both anger and a dose of lust flared. There's a tiny bit of sheet time thrown in the mix, too.And then there is Carl. I loved Carl the dog. He totally stole the show and provided so much comic relief as these two dealt with the past. Big, slobbery, and totally charming.
This one is a novella but, whew, things at the end moved a bit fast even for that and just wrapped up too nice and tidy between Max and Rory but also between Rory and her family who she's had a rocky relationship with. Still a fun read, though, and a nice way to kill an hour. I just needed a tiny bit more at the end.
***At 99cents this was priced right but no way was this 160 pages. Maybe if you include all the excerpts at the end. The actual story ended just shy of 60%
November 14, 2016
One Snowy Night was short and sweet, but perfect for fans who have been watching the crazy attraction between Rory and Max. The two have never dated but attended high school together, and there is a history. Neither is willing to open up or take a chance, but their attraction is blatantly obvious to their circle of friends. A little meddling has Max giving Rory a lift back home for Christmas.
Mix in an adorable dog, a snow storm and close quarters and you have the makings for romance. I had fun with this story and thought it was an excellent edition. As always I would have preferred a full-length novel. This isn't quite the 160 pages I expected. On my Kindle, it ended around page 80 and included a sneak peek at Accidently On Purpose. Still, I think it will please fans who wanted to see this couple find some happy. I enjoyed getting to know the history behind the two of them and seeing things come together. We get a little heat and heart to leave you smiling. I do wish the story had a more detailed ending as this felt abrupt. Hopefully, we will continue to see their relationship develop in the other books.
While this could have been more if it was a full-length novel, and I missed some of the magic that comes with the slower build I honestly had a good time with this
If you love animals, friends, that are close, you will enjoy reading the Heartbreakers Bay series and seeing these characters fall. Shalvis delivers heat and heart warming magic.
Copy provided by Publisher This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Mix in an adorable dog, a snow storm and close quarters and you have the makings for romance. I had fun with this story and thought it was an excellent edition. As always I would have preferred a full-length novel. This isn't quite the 160 pages I expected. On my Kindle, it ended around page 80 and included a sneak peek at Accidently On Purpose. Still, I think it will please fans who wanted to see this couple find some happy. I enjoyed getting to know the history behind the two of them and seeing things come together. We get a little heat and heart to leave you smiling. I do wish the story had a more detailed ending as this felt abrupt. Hopefully, we will continue to see their relationship develop in the other books.
While this could have been more if it was a full-length novel, and I missed some of the magic that comes with the slower build I honestly had a good time with this
If you love animals, friends, that are close, you will enjoy reading the Heartbreakers Bay series and seeing these characters fall. Shalvis delivers heat and heart warming magic.
Copy provided by Publisher This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Book Reviewer
December 20, 2017
Cute sweet romance. Short, but if you read the book before this one you know enough to enjoy this. 😊
November 5, 2017
A very short novella that tells us how Max and Rory finally got together.
November 9, 2018
Super cute very short romance. I enjoy a sweet romance every once in a while and this one hit the spot. I love the idea of two people, who have strong attraction for each other and also reasons to hate each other, are stuck together in a truck in a winter storm. Oh, did I forget to mention that there is also a big lovable dog. This is my first time reading Jill Shalvis and I will read her again.
November 18, 2016
The Heartbreaker Bay series so far has been very enjoyable reads for me and I was looking forward to this holiday novella, a break of sorts for this series that features two of the secondary characters going home for Christmas in a second chance romance. Rory and Max have a high school history that neither is fully ready to acknowledge out loud. But that doesn’t stop them from being attracted to each other in the present. Max has a habit of bringing his dog into the pet shop more often than strictly necessary, though he won’t admit that it’s because he likes seeing Rory take care of his pet (even if he might be thinking he’d like her to shower that attention on him). At the same time, he holds some resentment towards Rory for some things that happened in their past. When Rory is set to go home for the first time in years, her travel plans get changed when the weather turns, and Max offers her a personal lift. Their close quarters get even closer when they are forced to seek shelter from the storm in a motel on the way. Trapped together, some of the bubbling feelings between them come out, both as emotional cathartic revelations as well as an upwelling of desire. One night together could bring them closer together, but will they be willing to forgive the past to pursue a future together?
I enjoyed this novella, in particular, because both Max and Rory were interesting characters in the previous books and it was obvious that there was more to their story. Rory made some choices in the past that she’s not proud of, but never knew the fallout and how it affected Max until he reveals it to her now. It changes everything between them, the distance and wariness giving way to an honest discussion of their attraction to each other. It leads to a sexy night and both of them not wanting things to end. I liked how strong Rory’s character is, how she’s overcome a past drug and alcohol dependence and made a new life for herself. Max comes across as a strong and competent man, with a bit of a chip on his shoulder but still with some softness inside. His dog Carl is a scene stealer and adds some bright moments to a sometimes emotional story. The novella turned out to be shorter than expected, ending at about the 60% mark on my ereader with the rest taken up by chapter excerpts of some of the other stories in the series. Because of this, the ending felt a bit rushed, though it does have an appropriate happy for now resolution. If you like the ‘trapped in a blizzard’ theme, and sexy second chance romances with themes of redemption and forgiveness, then you’ll enjoy this story full of trademark Jill Shalvis style and wit.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Tasty Tours (and Edelweiss) for review.
This review appears at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
I enjoyed this novella, in particular, because both Max and Rory were interesting characters in the previous books and it was obvious that there was more to their story. Rory made some choices in the past that she’s not proud of, but never knew the fallout and how it affected Max until he reveals it to her now. It changes everything between them, the distance and wariness giving way to an honest discussion of their attraction to each other. It leads to a sexy night and both of them not wanting things to end. I liked how strong Rory’s character is, how she’s overcome a past drug and alcohol dependence and made a new life for herself. Max comes across as a strong and competent man, with a bit of a chip on his shoulder but still with some softness inside. His dog Carl is a scene stealer and adds some bright moments to a sometimes emotional story. The novella turned out to be shorter than expected, ending at about the 60% mark on my ereader with the rest taken up by chapter excerpts of some of the other stories in the series. Because of this, the ending felt a bit rushed, though it does have an appropriate happy for now resolution. If you like the ‘trapped in a blizzard’ theme, and sexy second chance romances with themes of redemption and forgiveness, then you’ll enjoy this story full of trademark Jill Shalvis style and wit.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Tasty Tours (and Edelweiss) for review.
This review appears at Straight Shootin' Book Reviews: https://straightshootinbookreviews.co...
October 19, 2019
Rory works for Willa at her pet shop. Max works for Archer. The two are on a road trip from the San Francisco area to Tahoe, up in the mountains, and become stranded for the night due to a road closure. These two have a lot to work out: past issues, present feelings, getting to Tahoe in time for Christmas morning. It made me dizzy, frankly, and I wanted more pages to sort out all of these feelings. Especially because I like Max so much and there is good tension between these two. (I'm crying for the full-length novel that this could have been.)
Max and Rory are another couple (like Willa and Keane) that went to school together but parted under very negative circumstances. In this situation (again, much like Willa and Keane), Rory doesn't realize something that she said/did had a big impact on Max's life.
Look, I LOVE the "stranded because of snow" trope, and the story itself is fun too. But I really want more page time for these two. Less than 60% of this short novella just isn't enough and I literally NEVER read excerpts, so the 40% of excerpts from other books at the end just killed me.
Go ahead and read this one: it's really cute and you'll want to know the backstory here! Also the snowiness definitely makes for a winter-y, holiday feel, which I love. But be sure to prepare your expectations for how short it is.
At least we'll probably see Max and Rory pop up in future installments. And I'm still dying to read about Archer and Elle.
My thoughts on the Heartbreaker Bay Series:
Sweet Little Lies (Heartbreaker Bay #1)
The Trouble With Mistletoe (Heartbreaker Bay #2)
One Snowy Night (Heartbreaker Bay #2.5)
Accidentally On Purpose (Heartbreaker Bay #3)
Chasing Christmas Eve (Heartbreaker Bay #4)
Holiday Wishes (Heartbreaker Bay #4.5)
About That Kiss (Heartbreaker Bay #5)
Max and Rory are another couple (like Willa and Keane) that went to school together but parted under very negative circumstances. In this situation (again, much like Willa and Keane), Rory doesn't realize something that she said/did had a big impact on Max's life.
Look, I LOVE the "stranded because of snow" trope, and the story itself is fun too. But I really want more page time for these two. Less than 60% of this short novella just isn't enough and I literally NEVER read excerpts, so the 40% of excerpts from other books at the end just killed me.
Go ahead and read this one: it's really cute and you'll want to know the backstory here! Also the snowiness definitely makes for a winter-y, holiday feel, which I love. But be sure to prepare your expectations for how short it is.
At least we'll probably see Max and Rory pop up in future installments. And I'm still dying to read about Archer and Elle.
My thoughts on the Heartbreaker Bay Series:
Sweet Little Lies (Heartbreaker Bay #1)
The Trouble With Mistletoe (Heartbreaker Bay #2)
One Snowy Night (Heartbreaker Bay #2.5)
Accidentally On Purpose (Heartbreaker Bay #3)
Chasing Christmas Eve (Heartbreaker Bay #4)
Holiday Wishes (Heartbreaker Bay #4.5)
About That Kiss (Heartbreaker Bay #5)
November 9, 2016
3.5 stars
A sweet holiday novella -- I loved the tension between Rory and Max when I read Willa's book, The Trouble with Mistletoe, back in September, so I pre-ordered this one when I saw it being listed.
I knew that it being a novella length, it would be pretty rushed in romantic department. The fact that there was a history between them helped. Plus I thought the chemistry was believable. And there was a dog (can't forget to mention the dog)
I just wish they they skip the whole "I love you's" between them. I will be fine without it. They need to return to San Fransisco and make an attempt in a relationship first.
A sweet holiday novella -- I loved the tension between Rory and Max when I read Willa's book, The Trouble with Mistletoe, back in September, so I pre-ordered this one when I saw it being listed.
I knew that it being a novella length, it would be pretty rushed in romantic department. The fact that there was a history between them helped. Plus I thought the chemistry was believable. And there was a dog (can't forget to mention the dog)
I just wish they they skip the whole "I love you's" between them. I will be fine without it. They need to return to San Fransisco and make an attempt in a relationship first.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2018
It was a sweet and quick addition to the series!!!
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