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The 12 Dares of Christmas
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B01N40CPIT
Tis the Season to be Daring
Lauren Hall has one wish for Christmas this year—raise money to build a new, no-kill animal shelter for the town of Sycamore Cove. And she is prepared to do anything to make it happen. Even dare a man she just met to perform a strip tease for the local knitting society.
Gabe Nicholson has one wish too—obtain the job of a lifetime to launch his career. Only his wishes get snowballed when his best friend's little sister hands him a pair of stripper pants and a bottle of eggnog-flavored body oil.
It’s all sugar plums and mistletoe until a scandal caused by Lauren’s fundraiser threatens to ruin it all. With Gabe's work opportunities disappearing before his eyes and Lauren's fundraising efforts tanking, their game of dares stands to burn them both. Unless it ignites a spark of Christmas magic.
Tis the Season to be Daring
Lauren Hall has one wish for Christmas this year—raise money to build a new, no-kill animal shelter for the town of Sycamore Cove. And she is prepared to do anything to make it happen. Even dare a man she just met to perform a strip tease for the local knitting society.
Gabe Nicholson has one wish too—obtain the job of a lifetime to launch his career. Only his wishes get snowballed when his best friend's little sister hands him a pair of stripper pants and a bottle of eggnog-flavored body oil.
It’s all sugar plums and mistletoe until a scandal caused by Lauren’s fundraiser threatens to ruin it all. With Gabe's work opportunities disappearing before his eyes and Lauren's fundraising efforts tanking, their game of dares stands to burn them both. Unless it ignites a spark of Christmas magic.
238 pages, ebook
First published November 22, 2016
111 people are currently reading
214 people want to read
About the author
Leigh W. Stuart
7 books27 followersLeigh W. Stuart was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, daughter to an English teacher. Most nights of her youth were spent hiding under the covers with a flashlight and a book, and she still gets nostalgic whenever she gets a whiff of paper-book scent. Although she decided to be a writer by the age of six years old, she later talked herself out of it and went on to study French and German in college. She met her husband in Switzerland, where she studied abroad one year, and they now live there with their two children. Recently, she has returned to the university for a degree in English Literature.
She loves getting messages from her readers - don't hesitate to drop her a note!
She loves getting messages from her readers - don't hesitate to drop her a note!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
February 7, 2017
Unfortunately I didn't like.it.
The idea of the dares were smart although these dares in themselves were almost childish. Too easy going for the writer but too boring for me.
The writer also wanted to complicate the story of Gabe and Lauren making a super-overprotecitve brother but was overprotective only for the flow of story.
The writting itself was poor and with other words... Nope... I didn't like it...
1,5 star for dare !!!
P.S. This is the 2nd year that I started my book year with 1star book... (luck or faith?)
P.S.2: The book was sent by the author of netgalley.com for an honest review.
The idea of the dares were smart although these dares in themselves were almost childish. Too easy going for the writer but too boring for me.
The writer also wanted to complicate the story of Gabe and Lauren making a super-overprotecitve brother but was overprotective only for the flow of story.
The writting itself was poor and with other words... Nope... I didn't like it...
1,5 star for dare !!!
P.S. This is the 2nd year that I started my book year with 1star book... (luck or faith?)
P.S.2: The book was sent by the author of netgalley.com for an honest review.
November 29, 2016
2.5 stars
12 Dares of Christmas ended up NOT what I expected when I read the blurb, saw the cover, and asked for the ARC from Netgalley. It started cute, when Lauren dared Gabe to wear stripper pants and jumped out of a cake in front of the women of Knitting Society of Sycamore Cove because the original stripper was unavailable.
Unfortunately, the further dares were more of the erotic nature (“If you don’t dare me, then I’ll have no choice but to assume your dare is for me to strip your clothes off and get on my knees in front of you.”) which led to more sex scenes that I prefer on this kind of holiday romance. It wasn't my cup of tea -- I was imagining the dares to be fluffier or cuter than anything sex related.
After that, this story just lost all its appeal for me *sorry*
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
12 Dares of Christmas ended up NOT what I expected when I read the blurb, saw the cover, and asked for the ARC from Netgalley. It started cute, when Lauren dared Gabe to wear stripper pants and jumped out of a cake in front of the women of Knitting Society of Sycamore Cove because the original stripper was unavailable.
Unfortunately, the further dares were more of the erotic nature (“If you don’t dare me, then I’ll have no choice but to assume your dare is for me to strip your clothes off and get on my knees in front of you.”) which led to more sex scenes that I prefer on this kind of holiday romance. It wasn't my cup of tea -- I was imagining the dares to be fluffier or cuter than anything sex related.
After that, this story just lost all its appeal for me *sorry*
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
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December 17, 2016
Lauren is passionate about raising money to build a new, no-kill shelter in her home town of Sycamore Cove. To thank the ladies of the local knitting group for their generous donation, she has planned a dinner, and a surprise male dancer to jump out of a cake for dessert. Apparently these ladies really wanted something spicy for their “thank you” from Lauren. But when the male dancer doesn’t show, Lauren calls her brother, Cooper, and begs him to come in as a replacement. To Lauren’s surprise (and happiness that she doesn’t have to see her brother in his underwear) a dancer shows up at the last minute. Except he isn’t a dancer.
Gabe is Cooper’s best friend from college. Lauren had seen pictures of him on Facebook, but never met him in person – so when he shows up, she doesn’t recognize him. Her brother sent Gabe to help out, not telling him what he was really going to do – so when Lauren drags him in a closet and starts rubbing eggnog body oil on him – he thinks this is his lucky day! When he learns that he has to get in a cake and dance around for a room full of ladies – his excitement isn’t as great. But he sees what this means to Lauren and is a good sport.
Have I mentioned that Gabe is a ginger? I don’t think we get enough Ging heroes! Cheers for the gingers!
A mouthwatering ginger with a trim beard and captivating, green eyes stepped toward her. Broad shoulders filled his wool coat, jeans hugged his narrow waist, and melting snow twinkled in his hair, lashes, and beard.
Back to the story – Gabe happens to be staying at Cooper’s house – and as Lauren doesn’t want to be alone for the holidays, she ends up at Cooper’s house – and they both accidentally end up in the same guest room, in the same bed – and this is how their relationship starts. They have hot chemistry. The only problem is that Cooper is extremely overprotective of his baby sister and would never let Gabe get close to her , so they have to be secretive. Gabe continues to help Lauren raise money for the shelter and Lauren continues to have doubts and worries about her attraction to Gabe.
This book starts out super cute with Gabe filling in for the dancer. It made me giggle. Overall, the chemistry is great between these two. Referring to the title, their friendship/relationship starts with a dare, getting Gabe to dance – and they continue with the dares throughout the book. There are some very sexy dares that turned quite steamy. I give a thumbs up
I liked their relationship but there are times that Lauren’s defensiveness wore me out. There is also another girl in town that has the hots for Gabe and it was hard for Lauren to trust that Gabe wasn’t into her. It dragged on for a while and I got tired of it. I didn’t think I would like Cooper’s extreme protectiveness but it actually worked for me. He is more of a big doofus so his caveman attitude fit.
It’s a fun sexy read – I’ll try this author again.
Grade: B-
Gabe is Cooper’s best friend from college. Lauren had seen pictures of him on Facebook, but never met him in person – so when he shows up, she doesn’t recognize him. Her brother sent Gabe to help out, not telling him what he was really going to do – so when Lauren drags him in a closet and starts rubbing eggnog body oil on him – he thinks this is his lucky day! When he learns that he has to get in a cake and dance around for a room full of ladies – his excitement isn’t as great. But he sees what this means to Lauren and is a good sport.
Have I mentioned that Gabe is a ginger? I don’t think we get enough Ging heroes! Cheers for the gingers!
A mouthwatering ginger with a trim beard and captivating, green eyes stepped toward her. Broad shoulders filled his wool coat, jeans hugged his narrow waist, and melting snow twinkled in his hair, lashes, and beard.
Back to the story – Gabe happens to be staying at Cooper’s house – and as Lauren doesn’t want to be alone for the holidays, she ends up at Cooper’s house – and they both accidentally end up in the same guest room, in the same bed – and this is how their relationship starts. They have hot chemistry. The only problem is that Cooper is extremely overprotective of his baby sister and would never let Gabe get close to her , so they have to be secretive. Gabe continues to help Lauren raise money for the shelter and Lauren continues to have doubts and worries about her attraction to Gabe.
This book starts out super cute with Gabe filling in for the dancer. It made me giggle. Overall, the chemistry is great between these two. Referring to the title, their friendship/relationship starts with a dare, getting Gabe to dance – and they continue with the dares throughout the book. There are some very sexy dares that turned quite steamy. I give a thumbs up
I liked their relationship but there are times that Lauren’s defensiveness wore me out. There is also another girl in town that has the hots for Gabe and it was hard for Lauren to trust that Gabe wasn’t into her. It dragged on for a while and I got tired of it. I didn’t think I would like Cooper’s extreme protectiveness but it actually worked for me. He is more of a big doofus so his caveman attitude fit.
It’s a fun sexy read – I’ll try this author again.
Grade: B-
February 5, 2017
I was hoping to read a cozy holiday romance when I requested for this book on Netgalley. What I got was a "very cozy" romantic read. Erotic romances are not the genre I prefer, so this book was not what I had expected. It really is my bad, I mean I should've got that from the blurb, but I was blinded by the word "dare" and the idea of the protagonist fighting to build a no-kill animal shelter (sigh! teary eyed).
Having said this, I did manage to read the book through (I dared myself) and discovered that if I overlook the eroticism, it wasn't a bad read. Quite formulaic so no surprises anywhere but sparks of mischief in some of the dares do help keep the pace going.
So, to answer the cliche, would I recommend the book? Yes, to someone who enjoys M&B kind of romances.
Thank you Netgalley for the book and this is my honest opinion.
Having said this, I did manage to read the book through (I dared myself) and discovered that if I overlook the eroticism, it wasn't a bad read. Quite formulaic so no surprises anywhere but sparks of mischief in some of the dares do help keep the pace going.
So, to answer the cliche, would I recommend the book? Yes, to someone who enjoys M&B kind of romances.
Thank you Netgalley for the book and this is my honest opinion.
December 9, 2016
5 Words: Christmas, family, charity, friendship, attraction.
This was pretty much your standard x-rated romantic Christmas comedy. It was fun and heartwarming, with all of the usual tropes you'll have come to expect if you read any Christmas romance, with the addition of baby animals.
I did like the whole dare aspect, how it all started out as a game, even if I didn't get it. If someone "dares" me to do something I just say no and go back to my book, but these two take them a lot more seriously.
So yes. Fun and enjoyable, with beautiful people and puppies and kittens.
This was pretty much your standard x-rated romantic Christmas comedy. It was fun and heartwarming, with all of the usual tropes you'll have come to expect if you read any Christmas romance, with the addition of baby animals.
I did like the whole dare aspect, how it all started out as a game, even if I didn't get it. If someone "dares" me to do something I just say no and go back to my book, but these two take them a lot more seriously.
So yes. Fun and enjoyable, with beautiful people and puppies and kittens.
November 20, 2016
Review to follow. The book description is a bit deceiving. This book is very erotic, not what I expected, but nonetheless, enjoyable.
November 23, 2016
"I want to understand you. I want to get into every single part of your heart and mind and see what holds you together. I need every part of you."
The 12 Dares of Christmas was a delightful (pre)holiday season read that had me wearing a huge smile as I read. I decided to give this one a try because I was drawn to the premise. Anyone willing to better the life of shelter animals is an automatic winner in my eyes. I just knew I was going to like Lauren, and I did! She was such an easy character to relate to. Gabe is a really great love interest, even if his flip flopping about wanting something more serious/not wanting something more serious was trying my patience.
The romance between Gabe and Lauren was hot and sweet and pretty much perfect. I loved the dares. Like really loved the dares. Such a cute and original approach to a romance plot. I also love that Gabe wasn't the least bit scared of Cooper, but was willing to keep what was going on between him and Lauren hush hush.
And speaking of Lauren's brother Cooper.......he was a little too crazy protective brother for me. I have 3 younger brothers so I guess I was spared from all that crazy :) I'm hoping the author plans to explain what had Cooper all frazzled and stressed out all the time in future novels. The casual glimpses we see of him was begging for more exploration.
The supporting characters were also great. I'd love to know more about Cooper, Abby, Aunt Jo, and Sandra. I adored the snowy small town setting. It just screamed cozy romance. It almost made me wish it snowed here in Texas for like a day then it could go away until the next year.
The ending left me feeling all warm and fuzzy <3 I really enjoyed this book :)
Only complaints? I would have loved more Aunt Jo. As a crazy cat lady in training I'm convinced she is my spirit animal.
& now I'm craving croissants. I hate when books make me hungry ;)
The 12 Dares of Christmas was a delightful (pre)holiday season read that had me wearing a huge smile as I read. I decided to give this one a try because I was drawn to the premise. Anyone willing to better the life of shelter animals is an automatic winner in my eyes. I just knew I was going to like Lauren, and I did! She was such an easy character to relate to. Gabe is a really great love interest, even if his flip flopping about wanting something more serious/not wanting something more serious was trying my patience.
The romance between Gabe and Lauren was hot and sweet and pretty much perfect. I loved the dares. Like really loved the dares. Such a cute and original approach to a romance plot. I also love that Gabe wasn't the least bit scared of Cooper, but was willing to keep what was going on between him and Lauren hush hush.
And speaking of Lauren's brother Cooper.......he was a little too crazy protective brother for me. I have 3 younger brothers so I guess I was spared from all that crazy :) I'm hoping the author plans to explain what had Cooper all frazzled and stressed out all the time in future novels. The casual glimpses we see of him was begging for more exploration.
The supporting characters were also great. I'd love to know more about Cooper, Abby, Aunt Jo, and Sandra. I adored the snowy small town setting. It just screamed cozy romance. It almost made me wish it snowed here in Texas for like a day then it could go away until the next year.
The ending left me feeling all warm and fuzzy <3 I really enjoyed this book :)
Only complaints? I would have loved more Aunt Jo. As a crazy cat lady in training I'm convinced she is my spirit animal.
& now I'm craving croissants. I hate when books make me hungry ;)
February 8, 2017
Sweet Sexy Story
Lauren is a determined young woman who loves her home town of Sycamore Cove and is doing all she can including funneling all her money into PR and Events to raise money to open a new Animal Shelter in Town. Lauren has been waiting tables since graduating with a bachelors degree and needs to make this project work to show both herself and the town that she is positively ingenious.
Gabe is in town to Party with his former College Roommate, Cooper - who happens to be Lauren's over protective older brother. And he's a smokin' hot Ginger with a Beard (swoon-worthy in my book!) to top it off!
The two have never met before. When Lauren calls in a favor to her brother. Her brother sends Gabe in his place and once they lay eyes on each other the sparks fly. Lauren thinks Gabe is a Male Dancer who is there to help her raise money for the new shelter. Gabe thinks he's simply helping Cooper's sister with a Cake Situation.
I really loved the push and pull of the beginning of their relationship - and the sexual tension definitely brought the heat. Neither one of these two could back down when dared and made for some rather hilarious, awkward & steamy moments. In the end it was really nice to see how they brought balance to each others personalities and still kept the sizzle that brought them together.
Funniest dare for me was the "Snow Diving".
If you want a bit of lighthearted romance with complex characters, Laughter and steamy times and a cute puppy/kitty or two. This would be a good holiday read for you!
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this Advanced Readers Copy.
Lauren is a determined young woman who loves her home town of Sycamore Cove and is doing all she can including funneling all her money into PR and Events to raise money to open a new Animal Shelter in Town. Lauren has been waiting tables since graduating with a bachelors degree and needs to make this project work to show both herself and the town that she is positively ingenious.
Gabe is in town to Party with his former College Roommate, Cooper - who happens to be Lauren's over protective older brother. And he's a smokin' hot Ginger with a Beard (swoon-worthy in my book!) to top it off!
The two have never met before. When Lauren calls in a favor to her brother. Her brother sends Gabe in his place and once they lay eyes on each other the sparks fly. Lauren thinks Gabe is a Male Dancer who is there to help her raise money for the new shelter. Gabe thinks he's simply helping Cooper's sister with a Cake Situation.
I really loved the push and pull of the beginning of their relationship - and the sexual tension definitely brought the heat. Neither one of these two could back down when dared and made for some rather hilarious, awkward & steamy moments. In the end it was really nice to see how they brought balance to each others personalities and still kept the sizzle that brought them together.
Funniest dare for me was the "Snow Diving".
If you want a bit of lighthearted romance with complex characters, Laughter and steamy times and a cute puppy/kitty or two. This would be a good holiday read for you!
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this Advanced Readers Copy.
November 28, 2016
A hilariously sweet Christmas romance filled with snappy dialog, witty banter and a gorgeously sexy ginger and a big hearted whirling dervish of a woman. Gabe finds himself in one hilariously embarrassing situation after another, all in the name of helping Lauren in her fundraising endeavors. The story is nonstop laughs, dares that start early and gather steam throughout the book.
I found myself smiling many times during the story just for the overall goodness it contained. There are also a host of quirky characters to round out the holiday fun...all the while the underlying theme was helping out shelter animals who need our help the most. Perfect Christmas fodder...and I don't use that term as a derogatory one, it just fit the best.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
I found myself smiling many times during the story just for the overall goodness it contained. There are also a host of quirky characters to round out the holiday fun...all the while the underlying theme was helping out shelter animals who need our help the most. Perfect Christmas fodder...and I don't use that term as a derogatory one, it just fit the best.
This book was provided by the Publisher and Netgalley, I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
December 10, 2016
I love books with animals in them, so I liked the premise of the heroine, Lauren, raising money to build an animal shelter. Her brother is extremely protective of her, so any of his friends know Lauren is strictly off limits. But when sexy Gabe appears and gets roped into helping Lauren raise money, neither Lauren nor Gabe can stick to big brother's rules.
This is a fun, heated Christmas story. If you like your romance with more sizzle than fluff, you will probably enjoy it. Some of the dares felt a little unlikely, but overall it's a fun little rom com.
I received a copy from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
This is a fun, heated Christmas story. If you like your romance with more sizzle than fluff, you will probably enjoy it. Some of the dares felt a little unlikely, but overall it's a fun little rom com.
I received a copy from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
December 21, 2017
The 12 Dares of Christmas by Leigh W. Stuart is the first book I have read from this author, and I enjoyed it. A cute yet spicy holiday read! Lauren and Gabe's chemistry was very steamy, and the love between them was heart pounding. A fun sexy read just for the holidays!
--Received a copy in exchange for an honest review--
--Received a copy in exchange for an honest review--
January 28, 2017
Sweet, comforting and sexy for this holiday read. Loved it so much!
November 28, 2016
Lauren needed a male dancer to jump out of a cake in the next fifteen minutes. The Knitting Society Of Sycamore Grove deserved that much for all the help they had given Lauren in her passion to have a new animal shelter that was sorely needed with a no kill policy and new clean and roomy kennels flr the animals.Lauren had contacted groups and businesses in town for support for the shelter. The knitters had jumped at the chance to help their community. The ladies had given their everything and Lauren wanted to give them a special end of the year party.lauren had been stuck in waitressing since graduating college with her bachelor's degree and couldn’t find a job in her field. Lauren was blackmailing her brother Cooper into being the male dancer. Then the original person who was the cousin of Lauren’s friend showed up or so Lauren thought. His name was Gabe and he was hot and was actually Cooper’s best friend from college. Gabe was presently unemployed but had a good interview to get an analytics manager with the governor's staff. Gabe thought Lauren was coming on to him and was all for it no matter what Cooper said but that wasn’t what Lauren wanted from Gabe was to come out of the cake and act like a male dancer. Cooper had invited gabe to stay for a week with him after the interview. Then when Lauren finally realized who Gabe was she dared him to be the one out of the cake and dance. Gabe did remend Lauren he then would have a right to dare her back about she agreed. Lauren’s mom and stepdad were on a cruise for Christmas and had rented out their house to Lauren had to stay with Cooper. Cooper kept his place really cold . gabe came into Lauren while she was sleeping and woke her up for a pillow and blanket. He ended up in the same bed as Lauren and dares her to keep her cold feet and hands off him during the night. Once Lauren had fallen asleep she turned to Gabe for his body heat and losing the dare. Gabe had heard about Lauren from cooper but he had left out her beauty as well as her continuous energy which drew gabe to Lauren. Then since Lauren lost the first dare Gabe then dared her to touch him where ever she wanted for as long as she wanted.
I liked this story a lot. I loved the dares going back and forth between gabe and Lauren. I also liked the attraction between Gabe and Lauren even if Lauren didn’t want to come between her brother and his best friend. This also had a good plot and kept my interest. I also laughed at times while reading this and that is always a good thing. I loved the ins and outs of this story and the characters and I recommend.
I liked this story a lot. I loved the dares going back and forth between gabe and Lauren. I also liked the attraction between Gabe and Lauren even if Lauren didn’t want to come between her brother and his best friend. This also had a good plot and kept my interest. I also laughed at times while reading this and that is always a good thing. I loved the ins and outs of this story and the characters and I recommend.
December 1, 2016
Peppermints, hot men and snow – who could want more?
Leigh W. Stuart has written an amazing pre-holiday book that brings a massive smile to everyone that reads it. It has definitely gotten me in the holiday mood a lot more than I would have been. I decided to sign up to be a beta reader because I have read some of her other books and they were amazing so I decided to give this one a go and I didn't regret it!
I loved how we are first introduced to Lauren. She is frazzled and nervous. However, she is doing all of this to achieve her dream. The fact that Lauren wanted to build an animal shelter with the idea of a no-kill policy made my heart melt as it is exactly what we need in this world.
When we are first introduced to Gabe there is a lot of sexual tension between these characters. I instantly loved their chemistry and they were already extremely cute even though Gabe was slightly annoying at some stages of their relationship.
The romance between these two characters makes you wish that you had a relationship like that if you were single like I am. It was an original approach for this story and the development of their relationship.
I loved that Gabe was not scared of Lauren’s overprotective brother Cooper and took time to show Lauren that he really was not afraid and wanted to make things work.
The supporting characters of Abby, Cooper, really helped to set the book due to their variety of personalities and traits.
The setting of a small town enticed by snow was adorable and helped to build the idea of a romance. The snow made me wish that I didn't have to travel almost three or more hours just to see snow!
Cooper is an amazing brother. Yes, he may be slightly overprotective however he is willing to help his sister with anything that she needs – even if it does come at a price. Abby is Lauren's best friend and their friendship is amazing and I loved it so much even at some times it was slightly weird.
The book was amazing and left a warm happy feeling. Both the beginning and end was amazing and left you wishing that you could have been in that story and along with the journey! I can't wait to read it again and again.
Thank you to Leigh W. Stuart for writing an amazing story and letting us all come along for the ride of Lauren's relationship with Gabe and achieving her dreams.
Leigh W. Stuart has written an amazing pre-holiday book that brings a massive smile to everyone that reads it. It has definitely gotten me in the holiday mood a lot more than I would have been. I decided to sign up to be a beta reader because I have read some of her other books and they were amazing so I decided to give this one a go and I didn't regret it!
I loved how we are first introduced to Lauren. She is frazzled and nervous. However, she is doing all of this to achieve her dream. The fact that Lauren wanted to build an animal shelter with the idea of a no-kill policy made my heart melt as it is exactly what we need in this world.
When we are first introduced to Gabe there is a lot of sexual tension between these characters. I instantly loved their chemistry and they were already extremely cute even though Gabe was slightly annoying at some stages of their relationship.
The romance between these two characters makes you wish that you had a relationship like that if you were single like I am. It was an original approach for this story and the development of their relationship.
I loved that Gabe was not scared of Lauren’s overprotective brother Cooper and took time to show Lauren that he really was not afraid and wanted to make things work.
The supporting characters of Abby, Cooper, really helped to set the book due to their variety of personalities and traits.
The setting of a small town enticed by snow was adorable and helped to build the idea of a romance. The snow made me wish that I didn't have to travel almost three or more hours just to see snow!
Cooper is an amazing brother. Yes, he may be slightly overprotective however he is willing to help his sister with anything that she needs – even if it does come at a price. Abby is Lauren's best friend and their friendship is amazing and I loved it so much even at some times it was slightly weird.
The book was amazing and left a warm happy feeling. Both the beginning and end was amazing and left you wishing that you could have been in that story and along with the journey! I can't wait to read it again and again.
Thank you to Leigh W. Stuart for writing an amazing story and letting us all come along for the ride of Lauren's relationship with Gabe and achieving her dreams.
December 6, 2016
Lauren Hall wants only one thing from Santa this year: enough money to build a no kill animal shelter in her hometown of Sycamore Cove. That means no fundraising idea is too crazy including daring a complete stranger to be a stripper for one night. Gabe Nicholson isn’t sure what to make of the bubbly little sister of his friend from college but he’s always up for a challenge. Gabe is currently unemployed though and trying to get a job working for a conservative governor, so perhaps accepting Lauren’s dare and jumping out of a cake wasn’t the best idea. Gabe just can’t say no to Lauren no matter how crazy her dares get even if it means ticking off her brother. Will Lauren raise enough money for the no kill shelter? Will Gabe get the job he wants? Can they keep their relationship a secret from Lauren’s overprotective brother?
I had been in a bit of a reading slump. Everything was just blah with nothing standing out until I started reading this delightful romantic comedy. The very first page had me grinning from ear to ear and it wasn’t long afterwards that I found my happy bookworm place again.
The interactions between Gabe and Lauren are what makes this book so awesome. Starting with the stripper dare, these two take turns daring each other. Some of the dares are down right steamy (a certain pantry scene comes to mind) and others end with hilarious results. Lauren and Gabe are one of those couples who you just know fifty years from now they will still be keeping each other on their toes.
Lauren is such a selfless character. She would literally give her last piece of food to someone who was in need and go hungry herself rather than seeing someone suffer. The reason she wants to build a new animal shelter will have you eyes misting over.
The 12 Dares of Christmas is a humorous debute novel from Leigh Stuart. The book features a hilarious story line with lots of Christmas cheer and two loveable main characters. This novel is great for anyone who loves contemporary romance.
I had been in a bit of a reading slump. Everything was just blah with nothing standing out until I started reading this delightful romantic comedy. The very first page had me grinning from ear to ear and it wasn’t long afterwards that I found my happy bookworm place again.
The interactions between Gabe and Lauren are what makes this book so awesome. Starting with the stripper dare, these two take turns daring each other. Some of the dares are down right steamy (a certain pantry scene comes to mind) and others end with hilarious results. Lauren and Gabe are one of those couples who you just know fifty years from now they will still be keeping each other on their toes.
Lauren is such a selfless character. She would literally give her last piece of food to someone who was in need and go hungry herself rather than seeing someone suffer. The reason she wants to build a new animal shelter will have you eyes misting over.
The 12 Dares of Christmas is a humorous debute novel from Leigh Stuart. The book features a hilarious story line with lots of Christmas cheer and two loveable main characters. This novel is great for anyone who loves contemporary romance.
December 13, 2016
In search of a cute, fast and easy romance and a bit of erotic reading set during Christmas time?
this book is perfect for that!
I wanted something light and fluffy but not pure sexy-times, and this was exactly that.
The writing was nice and easy to read, but not dumbed down.
There was an actual story line and while some moments were very typical romance-fluff and the entire romance in itself was very insta-love-y and not exactly what i really love in my romance stories typically... i kind of enjoyed this book anyways.
Or maybe because it was not what i typically reach for.
I did really enjoy the very festive setting of this book that really give you a nice winter feel, so perfect for what the book promises.
I also enjoyed the characters, even if they are rather cliche, with a little "innocent" sister, the protective big brother and the big brothers best friend.
All perfectly wonderful looking and of course a strange first meeting that makes them somehow end up in love -no spoilers for that because lets be honest we all know how those books end even before we pick it up and read the first sentence!
I am a sucker for this type of story, and it was exactly what i wanted:
Fun, easy and a little bit of sexy romance!
If you want something with christmas feelings but that doesn't just focus on that?
Pick this up! I dare you!
*thanks to netGalley, the publishers and the author for giving me a free ecopy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review!*
this book is perfect for that!
I wanted something light and fluffy but not pure sexy-times, and this was exactly that.
The writing was nice and easy to read, but not dumbed down.
There was an actual story line and while some moments were very typical romance-fluff and the entire romance in itself was very insta-love-y and not exactly what i really love in my romance stories typically... i kind of enjoyed this book anyways.
Or maybe because it was not what i typically reach for.
I did really enjoy the very festive setting of this book that really give you a nice winter feel, so perfect for what the book promises.
I also enjoyed the characters, even if they are rather cliche, with a little "innocent" sister, the protective big brother and the big brothers best friend.
All perfectly wonderful looking and of course a strange first meeting that makes them somehow end up in love -no spoilers for that because lets be honest we all know how those books end even before we pick it up and read the first sentence!
I am a sucker for this type of story, and it was exactly what i wanted:
Fun, easy and a little bit of sexy romance!
If you want something with christmas feelings but that doesn't just focus on that?
Pick this up! I dare you!
*thanks to netGalley, the publishers and the author for giving me a free ecopy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review!*
December 24, 2016
Lauren has been doing everything she can to raise enough money to build a new animal shelter for her hometown, the shelter they have is in very poor condition and she wants to create something so much better. The local knitting society have been incredibly supportive of her efforts and she's arranged a fun night for them to show her appreciation but when the stripper doesn't turn up it looks like she's going to be in trouble. Until her brother's best friend Gabe walks in and she dares him to take the stripper's place.
There are a few things I look for when I pick up a Christmas story, I want something funny and sweet and it has to have plenty of holiday spirit, and The 12 Dares of Christmas hit the spot perfectly. This is a really light hearted and fun read but it has plenty of heat to it too and I loved both of the main characters. There is no unnecessary drama but instead you'll find lots of humour, some fun side characters, a sweet romance and an almost naked man jumping out of a giant cake.
Lauren and Gabe make a great couple, I enjoyed the chemistry between them and I absolutely loved the back and forth between them as they kept daring each other to do things. This is definitely a story I can picture myself rereading in the future and I'll be watching out for more from Leigh W. Stuart in the future.
Source: Received from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
There are a few things I look for when I pick up a Christmas story, I want something funny and sweet and it has to have plenty of holiday spirit, and The 12 Dares of Christmas hit the spot perfectly. This is a really light hearted and fun read but it has plenty of heat to it too and I loved both of the main characters. There is no unnecessary drama but instead you'll find lots of humour, some fun side characters, a sweet romance and an almost naked man jumping out of a giant cake.
Lauren and Gabe make a great couple, I enjoyed the chemistry between them and I absolutely loved the back and forth between them as they kept daring each other to do things. This is definitely a story I can picture myself rereading in the future and I'll be watching out for more from Leigh W. Stuart in the future.
Source: Received from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
December 29, 2016
This book was provided to me by NetGalley for an honest review.
Yes, technically the Christmas season is over - but as long as my Christmas tree is up (usually until January 6), I'm counting it!
As any reader of the site should know by now, I am a sucker for a holiday romance. 12 Dares definitely had its moments where it was hot and steamy, and others when it was funny, but it still left a lot to be desired.
Lauren is a sweet heroine - working her butt off to help the local animal shelter (even though...well, I'll let you read that part). Gabe is lovely for helping her out, even though he wasn't sure what he was going to do in order to help her (bless him). And together they make a cute couple. Add in the problem that Gabe is Lauren's older brother's close friends - and you have your friction. But, even with all that, I still could not fully muster enough energy to care about these two characters. Not really. They left me feeling a bit bland about it.
To be honest, the insta-love is really getting to me. This may be why I'm taking a little break from the romance genre. Not for long, mind you, because I love it.
Back to the book - if you want a HEA (happily ever after) steamy romance surrounding Christmas, you'll like this.
Yes, technically the Christmas season is over - but as long as my Christmas tree is up (usually until January 6), I'm counting it!
As any reader of the site should know by now, I am a sucker for a holiday romance. 12 Dares definitely had its moments where it was hot and steamy, and others when it was funny, but it still left a lot to be desired.
Lauren is a sweet heroine - working her butt off to help the local animal shelter (even though...well, I'll let you read that part). Gabe is lovely for helping her out, even though he wasn't sure what he was going to do in order to help her (bless him). And together they make a cute couple. Add in the problem that Gabe is Lauren's older brother's close friends - and you have your friction. But, even with all that, I still could not fully muster enough energy to care about these two characters. Not really. They left me feeling a bit bland about it.
To be honest, the insta-love is really getting to me. This may be why I'm taking a little break from the romance genre. Not for long, mind you, because I love it.
Back to the book - if you want a HEA (happily ever after) steamy romance surrounding Christmas, you'll like this.
December 7, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Lauren and Gabe make an interesting couple, each have their own goals for this Christmas season. Lauren’s is to raise enough money to build a no-kill animal shelter in her small town. Gabe’s is the ideal job he’s been dreaming of for a long time. When you toss in an overprotective brother into the mix then you have a fun and quirky set of dares between two people who are trying to deny their attraction to each other… and failing badly.
There are definitely sexy times to be had in this story. So if you’re looking for a sweet and clean romance, expect some sex to be going on.
I enjoyed this story but I wasn’t blown away by it. I wish I had been but some of the dares were simply too over the top for me, personally. Still, it’s a good story with some laugh out loud moments
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
Lauren and Gabe make an interesting couple, each have their own goals for this Christmas season. Lauren’s is to raise enough money to build a no-kill animal shelter in her small town. Gabe’s is the ideal job he’s been dreaming of for a long time. When you toss in an overprotective brother into the mix then you have a fun and quirky set of dares between two people who are trying to deny their attraction to each other… and failing badly.
There are definitely sexy times to be had in this story. So if you’re looking for a sweet and clean romance, expect some sex to be going on.
I enjoyed this story but I wasn’t blown away by it. I wish I had been but some of the dares were simply too over the top for me, personally. Still, it’s a good story with some laugh out loud moments
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this novel. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this story.*
November 26, 2016
4 1/2 stars!
A heartwarming, highly entertaining romance that will definitely get you in the holiday spirit! This book captured me right from the start, and held tight through the end. With it's unique storyline, interesting characters you can't help but love, hilarious banter, crazy antics, intense situations, and intriguing twists, it'll have you turning the pages faster to see what happens next! This is a fantastic holiday story that everyone can enjoy!
This was a great story, and I loved the uniqueness of it. While it had lots of humor, crazy antics, and some intense situations, it was also an emotional roller-coaster of a story. It's the perfect book to get everyone in the spirit of the holidays.
I strongly recommend this book and great author.
I received an arc from the publisher via NetGalley. This is my honest and unbiased review.
A heartwarming, highly entertaining romance that will definitely get you in the holiday spirit! This book captured me right from the start, and held tight through the end. With it's unique storyline, interesting characters you can't help but love, hilarious banter, crazy antics, intense situations, and intriguing twists, it'll have you turning the pages faster to see what happens next! This is a fantastic holiday story that everyone can enjoy!
This was a great story, and I loved the uniqueness of it. While it had lots of humor, crazy antics, and some intense situations, it was also an emotional roller-coaster of a story. It's the perfect book to get everyone in the spirit of the holidays.
I strongly recommend this book and great author.
I received an arc from the publisher via NetGalley. This is my honest and unbiased review.
November 27, 2016
Lauren Hall is aiming to rise enough money to build a new no-kill animal shelter in her town. As part of that she dares a man she has just met to strip for the local knitting society to raise funds.
Gabe Nicholson is her brother's best friend and has only one wish in life - to get the job of a lifetime he is applying for in order to launch his career. However instead he is faced with his best friend's little sister handing him stripper pants and eggnog flavoured body oil.
In a series of dares between each other will Gabe manage to get the job of a lifetime, the animal shelter built, and the woman of his dreams in his arms?
This was a sugar sweet Christmas story. I liked the clarity of the writing style and enjoyed the overall premise of the book however I found the tit for tat dares went on a bit too long and thought they should have stopped before they actually did.
Gabe Nicholson is her brother's best friend and has only one wish in life - to get the job of a lifetime he is applying for in order to launch his career. However instead he is faced with his best friend's little sister handing him stripper pants and eggnog flavoured body oil.
In a series of dares between each other will Gabe manage to get the job of a lifetime, the animal shelter built, and the woman of his dreams in his arms?
This was a sugar sweet Christmas story. I liked the clarity of the writing style and enjoyed the overall premise of the book however I found the tit for tat dares went on a bit too long and thought they should have stopped before they actually did.
December 1, 2016
Dare Your Way Into A Relationship
The story was fun, quirky and sometimes just bust out laughing ridiculous. Lauren is a grown woman whose brother still tries to intimidate her dates and the funny part is she lets him.
Gabe is her brother's friend and he is not allowed to sniff around the sister. Having never met Lauren but having heard stories about her he was pleasantly surprised when they finally did meet under covers.
That first meeting has set the tone of the book. Two adults that resort to childish behaviors to so they don't let the other now how much they like them. As I said they things these two get into will keep you laughing.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
The story was fun, quirky and sometimes just bust out laughing ridiculous. Lauren is a grown woman whose brother still tries to intimidate her dates and the funny part is she lets him.
Gabe is her brother's friend and he is not allowed to sniff around the sister. Having never met Lauren but having heard stories about her he was pleasantly surprised when they finally did meet under covers.
That first meeting has set the tone of the book. Two adults that resort to childish behaviors to so they don't let the other now how much they like them. As I said they things these two get into will keep you laughing.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
November 17, 2016
Leigh W. Stuart has written a Christmas romance that leaves you wishing for your own sexy Ginger-man for Christmas!!!
Lauren & Gabe's adventure to a relationship through dares and volunteer work is epic! As I am reading, I'm cheesing like a dang Cheshire cat and giggling like a school girl with each dare! If you need a pick me up or just a cute read for the holidays then I recommend this book it will lighten your heart!
* I received this book early through NetGalley for an honest review* I gave this book 4.5 stars!
Lauren & Gabe's adventure to a relationship through dares and volunteer work is epic! As I am reading, I'm cheesing like a dang Cheshire cat and giggling like a school girl with each dare! If you need a pick me up or just a cute read for the holidays then I recommend this book it will lighten your heart!
* I received this book early through NetGalley for an honest review* I gave this book 4.5 stars!
November 26, 2016
Thanks to netgalley.com for the ARC.
This was such a good book, it had a twist of a love story and is totally worth the read. The situations these characters get themselves into is funny and kinda naughty. I was laughing so hard during the opening of this book, it was a great way to capture the readers attention and the excellent writing kept my attention throughout the book. The characters were complex and the super over protective brother who mysteriously was never around had me drawing my own conclusions to what was going on in his life.
This was such a good book, it had a twist of a love story and is totally worth the read. The situations these characters get themselves into is funny and kinda naughty. I was laughing so hard during the opening of this book, it was a great way to capture the readers attention and the excellent writing kept my attention throughout the book. The characters were complex and the super over protective brother who mysteriously was never around had me drawing my own conclusions to what was going on in his life.
November 27, 2016
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I love to grab Christmas romances during the holidays and this one was perfect. I enjoyed the pleasant writing and I laughed out loud several times. Both of the characters had a back story although I would a have liked a little bit more about Gabe. But other than that I enjoyed the flow of the book it was funny and very sexy. I could also see the set up for the overprotective brother and I am very curious about his story. If you want a story to read while escaping from relatives this holiday, this one is perfect.
December 5, 2016
AMAZING! The two characters cracked me up!..I was laughing a lot. Lauren and Gabe. Incredible love story.
Not just the love and connection between those two but pets also. Lauren wants to build an animal shelter.
I think there is the righty amount of sizzle and heat. The chemistry is amazing. The obstacles and stuff they come up with..wow..A real "feel good" book.
Totally fits the Christmas season and the time for giving.
I recommend this book to anyone.
This is the first book I read by the author. I look forward to reading more books by her.
Not just the love and connection between those two but pets also. Lauren wants to build an animal shelter.
I think there is the righty amount of sizzle and heat. The chemistry is amazing. The obstacles and stuff they come up with..wow..A real "feel good" book.
Totally fits the Christmas season and the time for giving.
I recommend this book to anyone.
This is the first book I read by the author. I look forward to reading more books by her.
December 11, 2016
Lauren is desperate to save animals and built a new shelter in town, hoping to also help the elderly in the process. When her dancer is a no show she ends up daring Gabe to become the entertainment of the night. Only thing is he returns the favour with a dare for her to follow through with.
The book was cute, the dares were unpredictable some where crazier than others but both characters seemed to grow to like each other more because of these. Now all I need is to find my very own Gabe.
The book was cute, the dares were unpredictable some where crazier than others but both characters seemed to grow to like each other more because of these. Now all I need is to find my very own Gabe.
December 15, 2016
The 12 Dares of Christmas was a sweet and fun read. It is a great book to get you into the holiday spirit. Lauren and Gabe pretty much hit it off from the beginning. Gabe helps Lauren raise money for the no-kill animal shelter. I loved the dares! They were hot and sexy to read! I really enjoyed the secondary character too. I want more of Cooper! Overall this was a fun quick read!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
November 22, 2016
Author Leigh W. Stuart has absolutely nailed the perfect holiday read! An addictive combination of naughty and nice, Lauren and Gabe's budding romance will have you hooked until the end. THE 12 DARES OF CHRISTMAS is clever and fun; a sizzling yet sentimental adventure just in time for the Christmas season!
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