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Falling Snow on Snow
Beck Justice knows holiday sparkle and snappy carols only mask December’s cruel, black heart. He learned that lesson even before he landed on the streets eight years ago, and his recent step up to a tiny apartment and a busker’s permit for Seattle’s Pike Place Market has done nothing to change his mind. But one day in the market, Oleg Abramov joins his ethereal voice to Beck’s guitar, and Beck glimpses light in his bleak, dark winter.
Oleg, lucky to have a large and loving family, believes Beck could be the man to fill the void that nevertheless remains in his life. The two men step out on a path toward love, but it proves as slippery as Seattle’s icy streets. Just when they get close, a misunderstanding shatters their hopes. Light and harmony are still within reach, but only if they choose to believe, risk their hearts, and trust.
Oleg, lucky to have a large and loving family, believes Beck could be the man to fill the void that nevertheless remains in his life. The two men step out on a path toward love, but it proves as slippery as Seattle’s icy streets. Just when they get close, a misunderstanding shatters their hopes. Light and harmony are still within reach, but only if they choose to believe, risk their hearts, and trust.
79 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 23, 2016
55 people want to read
About the author
Lou Sylvre
29 books130 followersLou Sylvre loves stories and likes to conjure them into books. When the stories are about love, the sweethearts on her pages are most often men who end up loving each other and likely saving each other from unspeakable danger. As if you’d want to know more, she’ll happily tell you that she is a proudly bisexual woman—a mother, grandmother, and cat-herder (with a dog). Her love of languages is no doubt a result of her interestingly mixed up heritage. Her over-the-top love of her rainbow-colored demi-tasse set cannot be adequately explained. She also loves music coffee, chocolate, and wild roses. As a writer, she works closely with lead cat assistant Boudreau St. Clair. Lou grew up in the Los Angeles area, where barefoot was always best for a kid. She now lives in the lush, rainy part of the Pacific Northwest, and hearing from a reader unfailingly brightens the dismal weather. Her email is louwrites@rainbowgate.com.
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(and she’s pretty sure she still has a tumblr account…)
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
amazon.com/author/lousylvre
http://www.sylvre.rainbow-gate.com
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLouSyl...
https://www.facebook.com/sylvrebarwel...
https://twitter.com/Sylvre
https://mewe.com/i/lousylvre
https://www.instagram.com/sylvre/
(and she’s pretty sure she still has a tumblr account…)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 21, 2016
I've read some really awesome holiday stories this year and now I'm adding another one to the list. Lou Sylvre's 'Falling Snow on Snow' was everything I look for in a story, holiday or not. It was about filling that space in your heart that longs for that one person...that special someone who loves you above all else, it was about finding faith, love, hope, compassion, forgiveness and ultimately a home.
Beck was 14 when his stepfather kicked him out. He's spent most of his life since then on the streets making a living as a busker playing his guitar at the local market. What starts out as just another day suddenly changes when Beck hears a voice singing along to his music...for Beck it's not just any voice, no this voice has the tone of an angel and he wants to see the person who that voice belongs to.
Oleg has the voice of an angel and a family. A big, loving, supportive Russian family what he doesn't have is a special someone and he keeps looking in all the wrong places for Mr. Right...until he sees Beck. But as in most cases the path to love is neither straight nor smooth. It takes a leap of faith for both of these men to find what they're looking for.
I started reading this one and could not put it down. I loved Lou Sylvre's 'Vasquez & James' series and this story is written with all of the emotional passion that I found in those books. Of course I wish there'd been more not because the story wasn't complete just simply because I loved it that much. I felt Beck's anger and frustrations with the path his life had taken but I also felt his hope and his strength as he took ownership of his mistakes and determined to have something better...to have a chance at love and happiness with Oleg.
While this was by no means a light and fluffy story it was a story filled with hope and love. Ms Sylvre did this holiday gift up beautifully right down to the bow on the package (the cover). I was totally enchanted with this one and if I can only recommend one book this holiday season I'd have to say this is it. Thankfully I can recommend several others as well but right here, right now this is the one that I want you to notice. Happy Holidays!
********************
An ARC of 'Falling Snow on Snow' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Beck was 14 when his stepfather kicked him out. He's spent most of his life since then on the streets making a living as a busker playing his guitar at the local market. What starts out as just another day suddenly changes when Beck hears a voice singing along to his music...for Beck it's not just any voice, no this voice has the tone of an angel and he wants to see the person who that voice belongs to.
Oleg has the voice of an angel and a family. A big, loving, supportive Russian family what he doesn't have is a special someone and he keeps looking in all the wrong places for Mr. Right...until he sees Beck. But as in most cases the path to love is neither straight nor smooth. It takes a leap of faith for both of these men to find what they're looking for.
I started reading this one and could not put it down. I loved Lou Sylvre's 'Vasquez & James' series and this story is written with all of the emotional passion that I found in those books. Of course I wish there'd been more not because the story wasn't complete just simply because I loved it that much. I felt Beck's anger and frustrations with the path his life had taken but I also felt his hope and his strength as he took ownership of his mistakes and determined to have something better...to have a chance at love and happiness with Oleg.
While this was by no means a light and fluffy story it was a story filled with hope and love. Ms Sylvre did this holiday gift up beautifully right down to the bow on the package (the cover). I was totally enchanted with this one and if I can only recommend one book this holiday season I'd have to say this is it. Thankfully I can recommend several others as well but right here, right now this is the one that I want you to notice. Happy Holidays!
********************
An ARC of 'Falling Snow on Snow' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2016
This is my first Lou Sylvre, so I didn't have any expectation or idea about what I would be getting. The story was just okay for me; probably would get more impact if it was longer. I knew that it was a story about two lonely souls. I am usually a big sucker for that, but somehow the loneliness just didn't come across the pages and grabbed my heart.
The writing style feels poetic to me, though at times I also struggled with it. All in all, a nice read but didn't blow my mind.
The writing style feels poetic to me, though at times I also struggled with it. All in all, a nice read but didn't blow my mind.
December 30, 2016
Wow, bad writing is bad.
There is almost no dialogue in this book. And when people do talk they say things totally out of character. There is no relationship development, we should just believe these guys like each other, even though I have no idea why. Beck and Oleg still have to have a first date at 65%, but they act as if they are already in a relationship.
What was also weird was that Beck kept something from Oleg and when Oleg found out the truth, it is told in one sentence.
In the quiet moment that followed, Beck introduced Oleg to his stepfather and briefly summed up the events of the last few days.
Talk about anti-climactic.
I liked the concept of this story. There was some great potential here. Unfortunately the writing was so bad that I had a hard time finishing this.
Do not recommend.
There is almost no dialogue in this book. And when people do talk they say things totally out of character. There is no relationship development, we should just believe these guys like each other, even though I have no idea why. Beck and Oleg still have to have a first date at 65%, but they act as if they are already in a relationship.
What was also weird was that Beck kept something from Oleg and when Oleg found out the truth, it is told in one sentence.
In the quiet moment that followed, Beck introduced Oleg to his stepfather and briefly summed up the events of the last few days.
Talk about anti-climactic.
I liked the concept of this story. There was some great potential here. Unfortunately the writing was so bad that I had a hard time finishing this.
Do not recommend.
December 21, 2019
“In the bleak midwinter, frosty wind made moan, earth stood hard as iron, water like a stone;
snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, in the bleak midwinter, long ago.” ~ Christina G. Rossetti, 1830-1894
For Beck Justice, of 'Falling Snow on Snow' by Lou Sylvre, music is the “medicine” that soothes his pain. It keeps him from giving up even when the world seems to be against him. December is Beck's worst month of the year. Seeing all the so-called joy of people around him only makes him more cynical. Beck earns a living by playing his guitar, bringing smiles, admiration, and hopefully, tips from the people at the mall where he is a busker. One day during the Christmas season, the voice of his guitar is joined by one of the clearest, purest voices he's ever heard. Hearing that perfect voice gives him pause, causing a crack in the wall around his heart. Beck knows he has to find the man with that voice.
Oleg Abramov is a Russian immigrant whose greatest joy is to perform with his large, loving family. Oleg knows he's more fortunate than most because of the acceptance and compassion he has at home. He's lonely and, sadly, to slack his physical needs, has anonymous encounters in bars and alleys that leave him feeling even emptier than before. Due to his family, he knows what a loving relationship feels like and, more than anything, that's what Oleg wants for himself. When he hears Beck playing one of his favorite tunes in the mall, Oleg can't help but sing. When his eyes meet Beck's, he feels a real connection, a possibility of something more, but he's so afraid he will fail and end up heartbroken, he runs away from it instead.
Beck is puzzled when Oleg leaves so suddenly but is still hopes to run into him again. For the first time in a long time, Beck feels something for another man and, although perplexed by Oleg's reaction, he decides that he wants to know more about the beautiful young man who sings like an angel. Fortunately they run into each other again at a church where Oleg and his family are practicing for a concert. Oleg invites Beck to come hear them perform and he agrees. Oleg is ecstatic; he's finally met a man with future possibilities and can't wait to see Beck again. Unfortunately, life isn't that easy. Beck runs into his alcoholic stepfather, the one who threw him out of the house for being gay at fifteen. He is down on his luck and very ill. As furious as Beck still is at the man who ruined his life, he also has a good heart. Beck can't leave anyone in the cold in that condition, even his stepfather. Unfortunately, helping his father prevents Beck from attending the concert he is so looking forward to. Beck feels defeated once again. He figures that Oleg will assume he's stood him up and their relationship will end before it even has a chance to begin; he also prays that, if he gets an opportunity to explain, Oleg will understand and forgive him.
Lou has created a powerful, emotion-packed story about two broken, kind-hearted young men, who are brought together through the universal language of music. Both are loners, desperately needing to be with someone who appreciates them. They've both about given up on that ever happening. Lou's descriptive prose is carefully crafted affording me the opportunity to experience what her characters feel. It's an emotional roller coaster at times, but ultimately fulfilling as Beck and Oleg's barriers are broken down by what could be described as a Christmas miracle.
This is a story of despair, hope, joy, forgiveness, and redemption. The happy ending touched my heart and made me smile. Thanks so much, Lou, for the awesome holiday read.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
snow had fallen, snow on snow, snow on snow, in the bleak midwinter, long ago.” ~ Christina G. Rossetti, 1830-1894
For Beck Justice, of 'Falling Snow on Snow' by Lou Sylvre, music is the “medicine” that soothes his pain. It keeps him from giving up even when the world seems to be against him. December is Beck's worst month of the year. Seeing all the so-called joy of people around him only makes him more cynical. Beck earns a living by playing his guitar, bringing smiles, admiration, and hopefully, tips from the people at the mall where he is a busker. One day during the Christmas season, the voice of his guitar is joined by one of the clearest, purest voices he's ever heard. Hearing that perfect voice gives him pause, causing a crack in the wall around his heart. Beck knows he has to find the man with that voice.
Oleg Abramov is a Russian immigrant whose greatest joy is to perform with his large, loving family. Oleg knows he's more fortunate than most because of the acceptance and compassion he has at home. He's lonely and, sadly, to slack his physical needs, has anonymous encounters in bars and alleys that leave him feeling even emptier than before. Due to his family, he knows what a loving relationship feels like and, more than anything, that's what Oleg wants for himself. When he hears Beck playing one of his favorite tunes in the mall, Oleg can't help but sing. When his eyes meet Beck's, he feels a real connection, a possibility of something more, but he's so afraid he will fail and end up heartbroken, he runs away from it instead.
Beck is puzzled when Oleg leaves so suddenly but is still hopes to run into him again. For the first time in a long time, Beck feels something for another man and, although perplexed by Oleg's reaction, he decides that he wants to know more about the beautiful young man who sings like an angel. Fortunately they run into each other again at a church where Oleg and his family are practicing for a concert. Oleg invites Beck to come hear them perform and he agrees. Oleg is ecstatic; he's finally met a man with future possibilities and can't wait to see Beck again. Unfortunately, life isn't that easy. Beck runs into his alcoholic stepfather, the one who threw him out of the house for being gay at fifteen. He is down on his luck and very ill. As furious as Beck still is at the man who ruined his life, he also has a good heart. Beck can't leave anyone in the cold in that condition, even his stepfather. Unfortunately, helping his father prevents Beck from attending the concert he is so looking forward to. Beck feels defeated once again. He figures that Oleg will assume he's stood him up and their relationship will end before it even has a chance to begin; he also prays that, if he gets an opportunity to explain, Oleg will understand and forgive him.
Lou has created a powerful, emotion-packed story about two broken, kind-hearted young men, who are brought together through the universal language of music. Both are loners, desperately needing to be with someone who appreciates them. They've both about given up on that ever happening. Lou's descriptive prose is carefully crafted affording me the opportunity to experience what her characters feel. It's an emotional roller coaster at times, but ultimately fulfilling as Beck and Oleg's barriers are broken down by what could be described as a Christmas miracle.
This is a story of despair, hope, joy, forgiveness, and redemption. The happy ending touched my heart and made me smile. Thanks so much, Lou, for the awesome holiday read.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 23, 2016
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I have to give her kudos for her elegant writing style and unique character choices.
Beck is a down on his luck Busker who is only just now making ends meet enough to live in an actual apartment after having lived – very roughly – on the streets for a few years. He’s got some baggage with past lovers and his family in addition to a hatred for the Holiday Season keeping him a bit depressed.
Oleg is another unique character. He’s from a large Russian family who loves him, yet he’s very lonely and always looking – in the wrong places! – for someone to really love him as he’s always wanted to be loved.
They are an unlikely pair, and I can’t really say what drew them to one another but they absolutely filled the empty spaces in the other’s lives.
To me the story felt a bit disconnected with so many people moving in and out of the frame for such a short story. I wasn’t always sure what import they all had on things, but they were all fairly interesting people.
As for the romance between Beck and Oleg – I didn’t really feel a tight connection or understand their spark, but I did appreciate how happy it made them.
If you’re in the mood for a sort of melancholy then somewhat happy, very lovely, Holiday story set in Seattle – this is for you.
3.5 of 5 stars
Beck is a down on his luck Busker who is only just now making ends meet enough to live in an actual apartment after having lived – very roughly – on the streets for a few years. He’s got some baggage with past lovers and his family in addition to a hatred for the Holiday Season keeping him a bit depressed.
Oleg is another unique character. He’s from a large Russian family who loves him, yet he’s very lonely and always looking – in the wrong places! – for someone to really love him as he’s always wanted to be loved.
They are an unlikely pair, and I can’t really say what drew them to one another but they absolutely filled the empty spaces in the other’s lives.
To me the story felt a bit disconnected with so many people moving in and out of the frame for such a short story. I wasn’t always sure what import they all had on things, but they were all fairly interesting people.
As for the romance between Beck and Oleg – I didn’t really feel a tight connection or understand their spark, but I did appreciate how happy it made them.
If you’re in the mood for a sort of melancholy then somewhat happy, very lovely, Holiday story set in Seattle – this is for you.
3.5 of 5 stars
December 24, 2016
Its kinda hard for me to review this book. While I do enjoy Lou's Loving Luki Vasquez series, I hadn't read anything else by her. Her writing is so different then what I'm use to. Her words are very descriptive and some times her stories don't show the actions being done. I felt like this story was a tad convoluted. It had a lot going on, and I'm not 100% certain I like either MC together or apart.
I feel like when you introduce a character like Beck who has so much background story then we need more then 79 pages. I really would have liked it to be longer, because quite frankly I didn't understand him being homeless. Yes, it sounds dumb because I know it can happen to anyone, but it went from him being kicked out his home to being homeless. It never stated if he reached out to any of his family or even his story. Things like this bother me until I get answers, and unfortunately I never got an answer so I was distracted most of the story. Yes Beck seems to overcome this part of his life, but his feeling of abandonment isn't going away.
Oleg reminded me of a scattered brain person on pixie dust. LOL. That's the best way for me to describe him. He kinda got thrust into the story. I really don't have much to say about him, just that he's lonely and he sleeps his way around. No problem for me, he's grown so he's allowed to do as such.
I can say the relationship aspect of the story was very rushed and harried. It happened so fast that you can miss it in the blink of an eye. I don't know if I can recommend this to people. It's an okay holiday read, but it didn't really feel as such to me. Hopefully the author's next work gives me the same excitement as her previous series.
I feel like when you introduce a character like Beck who has so much background story then we need more then 79 pages. I really would have liked it to be longer, because quite frankly I didn't understand him being homeless. Yes, it sounds dumb because I know it can happen to anyone, but it went from him being kicked out his home to being homeless. It never stated if he reached out to any of his family or even his story. Things like this bother me until I get answers, and unfortunately I never got an answer so I was distracted most of the story. Yes Beck seems to overcome this part of his life, but his feeling of abandonment isn't going away.
Oleg reminded me of a scattered brain person on pixie dust. LOL. That's the best way for me to describe him. He kinda got thrust into the story. I really don't have much to say about him, just that he's lonely and he sleeps his way around. No problem for me, he's grown so he's allowed to do as such.
I can say the relationship aspect of the story was very rushed and harried. It happened so fast that you can miss it in the blink of an eye. I don't know if I can recommend this to people. It's an okay holiday read, but it didn't really feel as such to me. Hopefully the author's next work gives me the same excitement as her previous series.
December 12, 2016
3.5 stars- beautifully written love story
Falling Snow on Snow is a sweet holiday romance about two lonely souls finding each other near Christmas. The characters sparked my interest from the start. Both Oleg and Beck had a complex backstory and it drew me in. I felt as though I knew the characters in a relatively short amount of time. However, I missed feeling a connection a little and I think it was only because the book was too brief to fully evolve. The romance and language Lou Sylvre uses evoke those emotions attributed to Christmas magic and true love, leaving me with a cozied feeling. The writing itself was beautiful. The author's descriptions are rich and paint a vibrant picture in both the characters' expressions and the environment. The story moves along fairly quickly, but isn't rushed as much as it's a little underdeveloped. There's angst that drives the plot and coincides with the characters' pasts, but it's never overwhelming. Rather, I was impressed by how much emotion the author was able to express in a shorter book. This was particularly poignant in Beck's distrust of love and past hurt. Even though I never fully connected with the couple, their story was heartwarming. I enjoyed how the author highlighted both a couple's love story, as well as the love of family. This is a nice story to cozy up with on the couch when you're looking for a reaffirming romance.
Falling Snow on Snow is a sweet holiday romance about two lonely souls finding each other near Christmas. The characters sparked my interest from the start. Both Oleg and Beck had a complex backstory and it drew me in. I felt as though I knew the characters in a relatively short amount of time. However, I missed feeling a connection a little and I think it was only because the book was too brief to fully evolve. The romance and language Lou Sylvre uses evoke those emotions attributed to Christmas magic and true love, leaving me with a cozied feeling. The writing itself was beautiful. The author's descriptions are rich and paint a vibrant picture in both the characters' expressions and the environment. The story moves along fairly quickly, but isn't rushed as much as it's a little underdeveloped. There's angst that drives the plot and coincides with the characters' pasts, but it's never overwhelming. Rather, I was impressed by how much emotion the author was able to express in a shorter book. This was particularly poignant in Beck's distrust of love and past hurt. Even though I never fully connected with the couple, their story was heartwarming. I enjoyed how the author highlighted both a couple's love story, as well as the love of family. This is a nice story to cozy up with on the couch when you're looking for a reaffirming romance.
January 2, 2017
My first by this author. There is something different, a good different, in the way this author writes. That I could "feel" the story is the best way I can explain it. Unless you read the story, these examples won't mean anything, but the fact that King Crow only has one leg, the way George comes up next to Beck in the marketplace, and the description of how John gets sick all evoked an emotion in me so strongly that I felt it had to be exactly what Beck felt in those moments. This ability and the author's unique phrasing made the story so much richer for me. There is a whole lot of story packed into these 75 pages.
February 6, 2017
Great story, wonderful storytelling and a storyline of romance and love. A must read!
November 16, 2019
Ingredients for the perfect holiday season story.
Beck Justice, a jaded and cynical loner who thinks Christmas is a fraud.
Oleg Abramov, a cheerful man who comes from a large family and believes in the wonder and joy of Christmas.
Soul-sucking loneliness and grief.
A chance encounter in Seattle's Pike Place Market.
A chemistry neither man can resist.
A misunderstanding that threatens to tear them apart.
Throw in a Christmas miracle and you get a beautiful, sweet, grab-you-by-the-feels, poignant, heartbreaking yet hopeful, lovely, and delightful holiday tale guaranteed to leave you saying "Awww!"
Beck Justice, a jaded and cynical loner who thinks Christmas is a fraud.
Oleg Abramov, a cheerful man who comes from a large family and believes in the wonder and joy of Christmas.
Soul-sucking loneliness and grief.
A chance encounter in Seattle's Pike Place Market.
A chemistry neither man can resist.
A misunderstanding that threatens to tear them apart.
Throw in a Christmas miracle and you get a beautiful, sweet, grab-you-by-the-feels, poignant, heartbreaking yet hopeful, lovely, and delightful holiday tale guaranteed to leave you saying "Awww!"
December 25, 2016
5 heart review for Love Bytes Reviews
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally posted at Love Bytes Reviews, please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
Wow. This story is the perfect blending of a holiday romance, deep characters, a bit of darkness, and an authentic setting.
Beck Justice is just getting his life together after some time living on the streets of Seattle. He is a musician, a guitar player, busking at Pike Place Market, he has a tiny apartment, and even a cat. He’s worked very hard to pull himself up, and works hard every day to keep what he has. He’s not fond of December, due to the false cheer of everyone, the fakeness of it all, and the excessive spending. Not having a family, he doesn’t appreciate the holidays, and it’s damn cold and wet in Seattle. He is forced to play mostly Christmas music, since that’s what people want to hear, and he’s got to keep the tips coming in. The one bright bit he gets comes in the form of a man singing with Beck’s playing, but then… poof. He’s gone.
Oleg is part of a large Russian family, who all managed to immigrate to Seattle, and stay together, making music and living near each other. They are loving, and happy, and no one cared a bit when Oleg came out. Even with all of the acceptance and love, Oleg is still missing something. He needs a man, and isn’t finding what he needs in one night stands or back-room hook ups. Walking through Pike Place Market one morning, he hears the sounds of a guitar and stops to listen. Then join in. The man playing finishes his song, and tries to catch Oleg, who panics and runs.
But the two are meant to be together, and the universe puts them in each other’s paths until it happens! Even with drama from Beck’s past, nothing is going to stop this relationship from happening. And it does happen! They work for it, like Beck is used to doing, and the payoff is lovely.
I loved so much about this book! There wasn’t a lot of sex, but damn, what we got was perfection;
He hadn’t known any man would ever do sex the way Beck was doing it, taking his time. He damn near wanted to tear up over the thought of everything he’d been missing, but he was too busy digging the way it felt.
Ugh. So yummy!
The two men are fantastic characters on their own, Beck has issues, but worked so hard to overcome everything. He’s such a good, strong man, even when he could be horrible to a person in need, who had been horrible to him, he takes the high road. I loved him. Oleg too, he’s come from a totally different place as Beck, happy and loved, but he’s maybe created an issue for himself, in needing more than he has. Beck meets that need, giving him love just for himself.
Then there is the city of Seattle. I am a Seattle girl, I’ve lived within 25 miles of Seattle my whole life. I have a total love/hate relationship with books set in my area. I know I need to calm the hell down and stop obsessing, but, it is what it is! Blame Sleepless in Seattle and it’s many many errors…. So anyway, this book is set in downtown Seattle, and written by an author that lives in the state. I am happy to say Lou Sylvre got it right! She gives us enough details to show she knows the area, the weather, the streets, the feeling. She called Pike Place Market by the right name, and gets the atmosphere of the old place just right. She mentions the weather, but didn’t harp on it. Didn’t make it sound worse than it is, even in December. It may seem silly to other people, but I truly appreciate it when authors get my home state right!
I can be a little bah humbugish, and I get tired of fluffy Christmas stories. Even though I feel compelled to read them this time of year. This story was perfect for me, it wasn’t fluffy, but still left me feeling warm and content. I loved the characters, I loved the connection built between these two lonely men, I loved the physical connection between them, I loved the family connection I think Beck is about to get. I loved the story, the background, the drama. I loved the setting, and the details. And I LOVED the ending.
Seriously, give this book a chance, it’s wonderful!
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. This review was originally posted at Love Bytes Reviews, please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, interviews, and giveaways!
Wow. This story is the perfect blending of a holiday romance, deep characters, a bit of darkness, and an authentic setting.
Beck Justice is just getting his life together after some time living on the streets of Seattle. He is a musician, a guitar player, busking at Pike Place Market, he has a tiny apartment, and even a cat. He’s worked very hard to pull himself up, and works hard every day to keep what he has. He’s not fond of December, due to the false cheer of everyone, the fakeness of it all, and the excessive spending. Not having a family, he doesn’t appreciate the holidays, and it’s damn cold and wet in Seattle. He is forced to play mostly Christmas music, since that’s what people want to hear, and he’s got to keep the tips coming in. The one bright bit he gets comes in the form of a man singing with Beck’s playing, but then… poof. He’s gone.
Oleg is part of a large Russian family, who all managed to immigrate to Seattle, and stay together, making music and living near each other. They are loving, and happy, and no one cared a bit when Oleg came out. Even with all of the acceptance and love, Oleg is still missing something. He needs a man, and isn’t finding what he needs in one night stands or back-room hook ups. Walking through Pike Place Market one morning, he hears the sounds of a guitar and stops to listen. Then join in. The man playing finishes his song, and tries to catch Oleg, who panics and runs.
But the two are meant to be together, and the universe puts them in each other’s paths until it happens! Even with drama from Beck’s past, nothing is going to stop this relationship from happening. And it does happen! They work for it, like Beck is used to doing, and the payoff is lovely.
I loved so much about this book! There wasn’t a lot of sex, but damn, what we got was perfection;
He hadn’t known any man would ever do sex the way Beck was doing it, taking his time. He damn near wanted to tear up over the thought of everything he’d been missing, but he was too busy digging the way it felt.
Ugh. So yummy!
The two men are fantastic characters on their own, Beck has issues, but worked so hard to overcome everything. He’s such a good, strong man, even when he could be horrible to a person in need, who had been horrible to him, he takes the high road. I loved him. Oleg too, he’s come from a totally different place as Beck, happy and loved, but he’s maybe created an issue for himself, in needing more than he has. Beck meets that need, giving him love just for himself.
Then there is the city of Seattle. I am a Seattle girl, I’ve lived within 25 miles of Seattle my whole life. I have a total love/hate relationship with books set in my area. I know I need to calm the hell down and stop obsessing, but, it is what it is! Blame Sleepless in Seattle and it’s many many errors…. So anyway, this book is set in downtown Seattle, and written by an author that lives in the state. I am happy to say Lou Sylvre got it right! She gives us enough details to show she knows the area, the weather, the streets, the feeling. She called Pike Place Market by the right name, and gets the atmosphere of the old place just right. She mentions the weather, but didn’t harp on it. Didn’t make it sound worse than it is, even in December. It may seem silly to other people, but I truly appreciate it when authors get my home state right!
I can be a little bah humbugish, and I get tired of fluffy Christmas stories. Even though I feel compelled to read them this time of year. This story was perfect for me, it wasn’t fluffy, but still left me feeling warm and content. I loved the characters, I loved the connection built between these two lonely men, I loved the physical connection between them, I loved the family connection I think Beck is about to get. I loved the story, the background, the drama. I loved the setting, and the details. And I LOVED the ending.
Seriously, give this book a chance, it’s wonderful!
December 29, 2016
3.5 Stars
This is a holiday read that begins with a heavy blanket of angst. The sadness, I will say, stays through most of the story. The lift, the joy and comfort doesn’t rise until about the last 10% of the book.
I found this book to be majestic in its poetic writing. With the mingling of music and descriptive writing made this book quite beautiful. Beck, a musician who plays his guitar in the market, has had one heck of a rough life. It doesn’t get any better for him until Oleg enters it. His beautiful voice and equally lonely heart pull Beck and him together.
Oleg does have a huge, loving family but it’s a great love he longs for and Beck can offer him that. Now, I hoped for more happiness in this story. It did end on an HEA but I was plagued with so many questions. What would happen to his step dad? What about George? Now, I’m guessing the author leaves us with those questions in the hopes we can put our outcomes into play. But I would have loved just a little bit longer to see what happened there.
It was a very lovely story that was full of angst and emotion.
This is a holiday read that begins with a heavy blanket of angst. The sadness, I will say, stays through most of the story. The lift, the joy and comfort doesn’t rise until about the last 10% of the book.
I found this book to be majestic in its poetic writing. With the mingling of music and descriptive writing made this book quite beautiful. Beck, a musician who plays his guitar in the market, has had one heck of a rough life. It doesn’t get any better for him until Oleg enters it. His beautiful voice and equally lonely heart pull Beck and him together.
Oleg does have a huge, loving family but it’s a great love he longs for and Beck can offer him that. Now, I hoped for more happiness in this story. It did end on an HEA but I was plagued with so many questions. What would happen to his step dad? What about George? Now, I’m guessing the author leaves us with those questions in the hopes we can put our outcomes into play. But I would have loved just a little bit longer to see what happened there.
It was a very lovely story that was full of angst and emotion.
December 10, 2016
Falling, Snow on Snow
Oleg and Beck. If ever there is a story of deep love and loneliness, this one was it. I just finished it and have such a warm feeling, of being wrapped in a cozy fleece blanket with a loved one, sipping rich hot chocolate and smiling whimsically, cuddling. Hearth and home, and so much. With so little.
It is amazing to me in such a short little story, that two people so unalike yet the same could so closely not have met, or crossed paths. A look. A glance.
This story is the perfect length. A perfect picture in what was, what is, and what can be. If ever you find yourself feeling down and lonely over the holidays, Sylvre has figured a way to make even the loneliest of souls have hope again, with music, compassion, in a place with people that seem to have so little, but that in all actuality have so much.
These shared words have such a kindness to them, that I'm almost overwhelmed with tears to see two such as these find each other in the end, despite the things that dark December might bring to those with much sorrow in their past.
Having been to Seattle, and The Market myself, I could hear the echoes of the guitar sweetly playing in the back chambers and halls as a lonely busker plays what's in his heart, and imagine that still sweet voice that joins him for a flash, a few minutes to be gone. But that little bit strikes a spark of warmth in a sad, lonely heart.
A very lovely holiday story. Simple yet sweet. Gingerbread and hot chocolate, or rich, dark tea and baklava, however you might like your sweets. A treat for any that has the loneliness of heart, fear of wanting that 'something', but afraid to think it might be out there, for you. Just in time to find that precious gift. Wrapped. And waiting.
Oleg and Beck. If ever there is a story of deep love and loneliness, this one was it. I just finished it and have such a warm feeling, of being wrapped in a cozy fleece blanket with a loved one, sipping rich hot chocolate and smiling whimsically, cuddling. Hearth and home, and so much. With so little.
It is amazing to me in such a short little story, that two people so unalike yet the same could so closely not have met, or crossed paths. A look. A glance.
This story is the perfect length. A perfect picture in what was, what is, and what can be. If ever you find yourself feeling down and lonely over the holidays, Sylvre has figured a way to make even the loneliest of souls have hope again, with music, compassion, in a place with people that seem to have so little, but that in all actuality have so much.
These shared words have such a kindness to them, that I'm almost overwhelmed with tears to see two such as these find each other in the end, despite the things that dark December might bring to those with much sorrow in their past.
Having been to Seattle, and The Market myself, I could hear the echoes of the guitar sweetly playing in the back chambers and halls as a lonely busker plays what's in his heart, and imagine that still sweet voice that joins him for a flash, a few minutes to be gone. But that little bit strikes a spark of warmth in a sad, lonely heart.
A very lovely holiday story. Simple yet sweet. Gingerbread and hot chocolate, or rich, dark tea and baklava, however you might like your sweets. A treat for any that has the loneliness of heart, fear of wanting that 'something', but afraid to think it might be out there, for you. Just in time to find that precious gift. Wrapped. And waiting.
December 31, 2016
Unfortunately for me, I'm not quite sure how I feel about this story. This entire month has been filled with upbeat and sweet Christmas stories and it's kind of gone along with the season. I am generally all about the angst and the heartbreak, the struggle and tears. Somehow, though, it just seems to not quite fit with the mood as we countdown to Christmas. So having said that I realize that maybe my opinions may be a touch skewed.
Falling Snow on Snow was, in my opinion, simply depressing. The entire time I read it I just felt blah. The characters themselves were depressing, sad, negative and frankly not very likable. I could not even begin to connect with them and as the story progressed and they experience misunderstanding after misunderstanding I felt myself just give up.
There is only so much negativity about Christmas and the month of December I can take in one sitting. As much as I would love to say I recommend this book, I can't. If you are in the mood for a sweet Christmas story, this one isn't for you.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
Falling Snow on Snow was, in my opinion, simply depressing. The entire time I read it I just felt blah. The characters themselves were depressing, sad, negative and frankly not very likable. I could not even begin to connect with them and as the story progressed and they experience misunderstanding after misunderstanding I felt myself just give up.
There is only so much negativity about Christmas and the month of December I can take in one sitting. As much as I would love to say I recommend this book, I can't. If you are in the mood for a sweet Christmas story, this one isn't for you.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
April 26, 2017
4.5 Stars. I first read Loving Luki Vasquez and immediately bought the rest of the series. So this book,was a one click for me. It was such a beautiful story. It did start on a very melancholy note (see what I did there?) as Beck is finally able to support himself by busking. He's trying to appreciate his blessings but December can be the loneliest month of all, for many people. It holds little charm for Beck as he's forced to play cheerful Christmas music instead of the older antique melodies he loves. Indulging himself one day, he sees Oleg, as Oleg sings along with his guitar. Oleg flees after, for various reasons, and they both are sure they'll never see each other again.
But ordinary miracles do happen, although I don't personally believe in any divine intervention and neither does Beck. Events bring them both to a turning point and it's up to Beck to believe in himself and to believe in Oleg. I loved it and Lou Sylvre is an author that can truly write a Christmas song with words.
But ordinary miracles do happen, although I don't personally believe in any divine intervention and neither does Beck. Events bring them both to a turning point and it's up to Beck to believe in himself and to believe in Oleg. I loved it and Lou Sylvre is an author that can truly write a Christmas song with words.
February 13, 2018
Thank you, Cyber Momma!! This sounds awesome :)
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4.5 stars
Beautiful, sad, melancholic, hopeful, poetic, emotional, with lots of Christmas spirit!
Beck is definitely a much better person than I will ever be.
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4.5 stars
Beautiful, sad, melancholic, hopeful, poetic, emotional, with lots of Christmas spirit!
Beck is definitely a much better person than I will ever be.
February 20, 2021
This is on of my favorite books by Lou Sylvre and it takes place over the holidays in Seattle against of backdrop of music, snow and sweet romance. Beck has had a rough life after his stepfather threw him out and he lived on the streets for a few years until his luck changed. Now he's grateful for his small apartment, his cat Parcheesi, and being able to busk at the Pike Place Market with his guitar. He hates December and doesn't believe in holiday joy until he hears the voice of an angel, Oleg, singing along to one of his songs. Beck doesn't think he has a chance at love with Oleg when some surprises from his past show up but everything happens for a reason. Oleg and his large, loving family welcomes Beck on a slippery path to love but it's worth it in the end :) Sweet and feel good holiday novella that I really enjoyed!
November 20, 2019
Down and out especially at the holidays is just so sad. The vertebrae aspect also hit home, for me. This story was really good, poignant ,I guess. It had its moments of sweetness and sadness, as well. It touched me and made me feel melancholy and also made me smile. Oleg and Beck completed the other and it added an extra spark to the good feeling the story already created. The conclusion, though HFN also offered the hope of forever. A terrific and unusual holiday read that proved itself very enjoyable.m
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
February 20, 2021Perhaps it’s the weather at the time I read it that made the story depressing as hell. It’s a somber, eloquent kind of story that I debated whether to lament over its short (length) or feel relief.. 😅
Beck and Oleg were such old characters for young men and their connection was way too instant to my liking yet somehow it fit. All I can say is have a mug of hot drink nearby and cocoon oneself in something warm while reading this - it’ll help to keep out the cold the narrative given me here.
But worry not, it has a happy ending. Or beginning, more like.
Beck and Oleg were such old characters for young men and their connection was way too instant to my liking yet somehow it fit. All I can say is have a mug of hot drink nearby and cocoon oneself in something warm while reading this - it’ll help to keep out the cold the narrative given me here.
But worry not, it has a happy ending. Or beginning, more like.
December 19, 2016
3.5 stars
Falling Snow in Snow is a slice of life holiday novella. First we meet Beck, who is finally getting back on his feet. His back story, while unique to him, will ring familiar with many. He’s so grateful for the little he has, and has his routine. But now it is December, and he despises December. The author is able to make December appear as if the dark villain in this tale.
Oleg is so lonely in the midst of his huge family. He wants someone of his own, and when he sees Beck he finds someone who loves music as much he does, who has an air of needing more, a possible kindred spirit.
Oleg and Beck fit. Both want affection and have so much heart to offer. But both are nervous, and while others can see their connection they are remain cautious. Truly beautiful how so much hope can bloom in the dark cold days of December.
Falling Snow in Snow is a slice of life holiday novella. First we meet Beck, who is finally getting back on his feet. His back story, while unique to him, will ring familiar with many. He’s so grateful for the little he has, and has his routine. But now it is December, and he despises December. The author is able to make December appear as if the dark villain in this tale.
Oleg is so lonely in the midst of his huge family. He wants someone of his own, and when he sees Beck he finds someone who loves music as much he does, who has an air of needing more, a possible kindred spirit.
Oleg and Beck fit. Both want affection and have so much heart to offer. But both are nervous, and while others can see their connection they are remain cautious. Truly beautiful how so much hope can bloom in the dark cold days of December.
Read
December 23, 2016Dropped at 33% because the pace was too slow for me and the MCs didn't interest me.
December 29, 2016
Leider flach und uninspiriert. Kein Weihnachtsmärchen, das jetzt ans Herz geht und auch keine Geschichte, die jetzt Lust auf mehr machen würde.
January 5, 2017
3.5 stars
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