What do you think?
Rate this book
All I Want
“All I want for Christmas is someone to love.”
Shy retail clerk Elliott Gaffney’s Christmas wish isn’t something Santa can grant him, but that doesn’t stop it from being his favorite time of year. Especially since he gets to work at Chicago’s prestigious Ashby’s department store in “the North Pole,” doing his part to make the magic of Christmas come alive for others.
All Bennett “Ash” Ashby wants for Christmas is to forget about it. Unfortunately, his father is forcing him to pay penance for the media frenzy caused by his latest public sex scandal. The Ashby heir, working as a lowly department store Santa? Only the fact that no one will know it’s really him can save Ash the embarrassment of being stuck in a fat suit instead of partying with his friends.
But when Elliott catches Ash’s eye, Christmas starts to look a whole lot brighter. And even though Elliott would never have the guts to say yes if he knew who Ash really was, falling for “Ben,” the new Santa, is another story all together…
Shy retail clerk Elliott Gaffney’s Christmas wish isn’t something Santa can grant him, but that doesn’t stop it from being his favorite time of year. Especially since he gets to work at Chicago’s prestigious Ashby’s department store in “the North Pole,” doing his part to make the magic of Christmas come alive for others.
All Bennett “Ash” Ashby wants for Christmas is to forget about it. Unfortunately, his father is forcing him to pay penance for the media frenzy caused by his latest public sex scandal. The Ashby heir, working as a lowly department store Santa? Only the fact that no one will know it’s really him can save Ash the embarrassment of being stuck in a fat suit instead of partying with his friends.
But when Elliott catches Ash’s eye, Christmas starts to look a whole lot brighter. And even though Elliott would never have the guts to say yes if he knew who Ash really was, falling for “Ben,” the new Santa, is another story all together…
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2016
211 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
February 7, 2017
Suspend disbelief ye who enter here.
This story isn't realistic in the least. The plot is predictable, and we're asked to believe that, yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. And sexy elves too.
Here's the thing: I. Don't. Care.
Because All I Want is a Christmas story. It's supposed to be sweet and ridiculously feel good.
I read this book in January, when the weather is dreadful and only a few sad, droopy Christmas lights remain, and it made me happy, damn it.
We get a bit of smex, friends who care, ugly Christmas sweaters, and a really cute dog (a rescue at that).
I just couldn't bring myself to be cynical. This one's adorable with a blinding HEA (and no obvious editing issues!).
Definitely worth a spot on your holiday reading list.
This story isn't realistic in the least. The plot is predictable, and we're asked to believe that, yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. And sexy elves too.
Here's the thing: I. Don't. Care.
Because All I Want is a Christmas story. It's supposed to be sweet and ridiculously feel good.
I read this book in January, when the weather is dreadful and only a few sad, droopy Christmas lights remain, and it made me happy, damn it.
We get a bit of smex, friends who care, ugly Christmas sweaters, and a really cute dog (a rescue at that).
I just couldn't bring myself to be cynical. This one's adorable with a blinding HEA (and no obvious editing issues!).
Definitely worth a spot on your holiday reading list.
August 16, 2019
*** I have found a new author, team to love ! *** Stella Starling is a team of two.
This is a wonderful emotion filled Christmas story of a spoiled man, Ash, being shown what real care and love are supposed to be.
Elliot teaches Ben... (alias Ash),
about being Santa for the store, and they are drawn together for friendship and more. Ben/Ash has been sent to the store as punishment for his wild escapades, and certainly does learn some lessons. Ben teaches virgin Elliot
about making love and neither man has never had a "boyfriend," so they are really both figuring out how to be who the other needs. Ben finds a dog and they clean him up and name him
Donner,
and these guys are really happy. The bubble is burst by none other than Ben/Ash's mean Dad, in a "set-up" at the store. Elliot is devastated to find Ben has been lying; he's so hurt. On top of that Elliot is fired for using his discount to buy gifts for the Wishing Tree children. Who will get the kids their presents ?
A lot is happening, as we see these men face the tragedy of their relationship's demise. So sad for both men. Each deserves some good for a change. How will they overcome this mess? We get deep, feeling characters, a fabulous story that is well written, and of course the beginning of their love and what may yet take place. We have hope.
This tale is magnificent and heartwarming !
The ending of the book is marvelous and the epilogue is awesome !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=============================
This is a wonderful emotion filled Christmas story of a spoiled man, Ash, being shown what real care and love are supposed to be.
Elliot teaches Ben... (alias Ash),
about being Santa for the store, and they are drawn together for friendship and more. Ben/Ash has been sent to the store as punishment for his wild escapades, and certainly does learn some lessons. Ben teaches virgin Elliot
about making love and neither man has never had a "boyfriend," so they are really both figuring out how to be who the other needs. Ben finds a dog and they clean him up and name him
Donner,
and these guys are really happy. The bubble is burst by none other than Ben/Ash's mean Dad, in a "set-up" at the store. Elliot is devastated to find Ben has been lying; he's so hurt. On top of that Elliot is fired for using his discount to buy gifts for the Wishing Tree children. Who will get the kids their presents ?
A lot is happening, as we see these men face the tragedy of their relationship's demise. So sad for both men. Each deserves some good for a change. How will they overcome this mess? We get deep, feeling characters, a fabulous story that is well written, and of course the beginning of their love and what may yet take place. We have hope.
This tale is magnificent and heartwarming !
The ending of the book is marvelous and the epilogue is awesome !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=============================
June 10, 2017
3.5 Sentimental Stars
This really, truly embodies the meaning of Christmas, and it definitely put me in the mood for this time of year.
Ash has been living the high life, and he’s totally fine with that, not knowing what he’s missing, as money has thus far provided him with superficial fun, companionship, and luxuries. However, due to some bad behavior, his punishment to work at one of his family’s main stores opens his eyes to many things, mainly that his life has been lacking people to care for and be cared by. This enlightenment is all due to coworker Elliot - the kindest, most generous soul he’s ever had the privilege of knowing.
Elliot’s love of Christmas is deeply rooted, and he takes the opportunity to use the event for good, making the skeptical believe and fulfilling wishes of those less fortunate. He’s the true star of this story, and there wasn’t one thing that I didn’t love about him. His generosity and innate goodness profoundly influences Ash, as he witnesses Elliot’s enthusiasm and dedication to bring hope and happiness to any child who comes to the Ashby store to make a wish. Of course, it changes Ash’s perspective and his ideas of what’s truly important - doing and caring for others, having a sense of family and belonging, and ultimately achieving respect and pride in one’s self.
Though maybe a bit unbelievable how fast Ash makes a 180, it’s still within the parameters of the all wonders of what Christmas embodies. Definitely sweet, definitely feel good, all with a nice of amount of sexy. This truly shows the magic of what believing in Christmas can do and the miracles it can create.
This really, truly embodies the meaning of Christmas, and it definitely put me in the mood for this time of year.
Ash has been living the high life, and he’s totally fine with that, not knowing what he’s missing, as money has thus far provided him with superficial fun, companionship, and luxuries. However, due to some bad behavior, his punishment to work at one of his family’s main stores opens his eyes to many things, mainly that his life has been lacking people to care for and be cared by. This enlightenment is all due to coworker Elliot - the kindest, most generous soul he’s ever had the privilege of knowing.
Elliot’s love of Christmas is deeply rooted, and he takes the opportunity to use the event for good, making the skeptical believe and fulfilling wishes of those less fortunate. He’s the true star of this story, and there wasn’t one thing that I didn’t love about him. His generosity and innate goodness profoundly influences Ash, as he witnesses Elliot’s enthusiasm and dedication to bring hope and happiness to any child who comes to the Ashby store to make a wish. Of course, it changes Ash’s perspective and his ideas of what’s truly important - doing and caring for others, having a sense of family and belonging, and ultimately achieving respect and pride in one’s self.
Though maybe a bit unbelievable how fast Ash makes a 180, it’s still within the parameters of the all wonders of what Christmas embodies. Definitely sweet, definitely feel good, all with a nice of amount of sexy. This truly shows the magic of what believing in Christmas can do and the miracles it can create.
October 10, 2018
Re-read October 2018
Never too early for Christmas stories!
-------------------------------------
“Elliott, all I could ever want… is you.”
This author duo sure knows how to write. Every emotion just came to life in this heartwarming story.
This is a sweet and fluffy holiday read with some angst sprinkled in, but not too much (for those of us who dislike relationship angst).
Bennet Ashby, Ash, is your typical spoiled rich kid (he is in his early twenties, but hasn’t worked a day in his life). He parties like there is no tomorrow and loves to get into trouble. His father has had enough of his antics and orders Ash to work at their department store, Ashby’s, for the duration of the holidays. He is to be the new Santa, since the old one has had a stroke and is still recovering.
Since no one can recognize Ash, he is to dye his hair, wear contacts and go by the name of Ben.
When Ash arrives at Ashby’s he is prepared to hate everything. But he isn’t prepared to actually like the people working the “North Pole” with such holiday cheer. He especially likes sweet, but shy Elliot.
Elliot loves Christmas and he loves dressing up every year and making the little kids happy. He goes out of his way to help the new Santa when it looks like the new guy is kind of a Grinch. But it is soon clear that Ben is actually quite sweet.
Ash has no idea what to do with all the kindness he receives from the people working at Ashby’s, but he isn’t going to question it, he just goes with it. He tries his best to make friends, especially with cute Elliot..
These guys were really adorable together. I loved how playboy Ash just melted whenever he was with Elliot. He was just a sweet cuddly teddy bear inside. He was so sweet and patient with virgin Elliot. They were perfect together.
What made this book stand out for me were the little romantic things sprinkled throughout the story. Little things they said to each other, or small thing they did. Like Ash buying Elliot an ugly Christmas sweater so that they’d match. How adorable is that!
And that epilogue! That was just to die for! So romantic.
My one complaint is really on me and has little to with the book. You could feel the big reveal and resulting angst coming a mile away and I was a bit too nervous about it to give this 5 stars. But I do have to say, the angst was very minimal and the scene where everything is resolved was VERY romantic. So it was more the build-up to it that made me nervous and therefore I’m okay with giving this 4 stars.
The writing in this had a very nice pace. The relationship development felt real and not rushed, neither was it drawn out too long. These writers have a talent for bringing emotion to every page.
Definitely a holiday read worth reading.
Never too early for Christmas stories!
-------------------------------------
“Elliott, all I could ever want… is you.”
This author duo sure knows how to write. Every emotion just came to life in this heartwarming story.
This is a sweet and fluffy holiday read with some angst sprinkled in, but not too much (for those of us who dislike relationship angst).
Bennet Ashby, Ash, is your typical spoiled rich kid (he is in his early twenties, but hasn’t worked a day in his life). He parties like there is no tomorrow and loves to get into trouble. His father has had enough of his antics and orders Ash to work at their department store, Ashby’s, for the duration of the holidays. He is to be the new Santa, since the old one has had a stroke and is still recovering.
Since no one can recognize Ash, he is to dye his hair, wear contacts and go by the name of Ben.
When Ash arrives at Ashby’s he is prepared to hate everything. But he isn’t prepared to actually like the people working the “North Pole” with such holiday cheer. He especially likes sweet, but shy Elliot.
Elliot loves Christmas and he loves dressing up every year and making the little kids happy. He goes out of his way to help the new Santa when it looks like the new guy is kind of a Grinch. But it is soon clear that Ben is actually quite sweet.
Ash has no idea what to do with all the kindness he receives from the people working at Ashby’s, but he isn’t going to question it, he just goes with it. He tries his best to make friends, especially with cute Elliot..
These guys were really adorable together. I loved how playboy Ash just melted whenever he was with Elliot. He was just a sweet cuddly teddy bear inside. He was so sweet and patient with virgin Elliot. They were perfect together.
What made this book stand out for me were the little romantic things sprinkled throughout the story. Little things they said to each other, or small thing they did. Like Ash buying Elliot an ugly Christmas sweater so that they’d match. How adorable is that!
And that epilogue! That was just to die for! So romantic.
My one complaint is really on me and has little to with the book. You could feel the big reveal and resulting angst coming a mile away and I was a bit too nervous about it to give this 5 stars. But I do have to say, the angst was very minimal and the scene where everything is resolved was VERY romantic. So it was more the build-up to it that made me nervous and therefore I’m okay with giving this 4 stars.
The writing in this had a very nice pace. The relationship development felt real and not rushed, neither was it drawn out too long. These writers have a talent for bringing emotion to every page.
Definitely a holiday read worth reading.
maybe
December 2, 2021Christmas story now *FREE* on Amazon, 2021-12-01:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZZPGEU
February 7, 2017
4.5 Stars
Elliott Gaffney is as sweet and good-hearted as they come, and Christmas is definitely his favourite time of year. He works as a retail clerk at a high-end department store in Chicago, called Ashby’s, and at Christmastime he relishes in being an active participant in the store’s Christmas traditions. This year, Elliott gets to play the part of a Nutcracker in Ashby’s “North Pole," where he meets the store’s newest employee and this years in-store Santa, Ben.
Ben is like no one Elliott has ever met. He’s charming, confident and cocky. He’s the most beautiful man Elliott has ever seen, and much to Elliott’s surprise, Ben takes an immediate interest in him. Shy and inexperienced Elliott can’t help but become smitten with Ben, and soon enough the two begin to fall for one another.
The problem is that Ben isn’t who he says he is. He’s actually Bennett “Ash” Ashby, heir apparent to the Ashby business fortune. He’s a playboy and a media darling – usually for all the wrong reasons. He’s also entitled and shockingly ignorant of the lifestyles of those less privileged. His sudden presence at Ashby’s is actually a punishment from his father, one doled out after a recent, very public, indiscretion. Initially, Ben/Ash is irritated at having to play commoner and work in-store as Santa during the holiday season, but after meeting Elliott and his friends, Ben/Ash quickly learns the error of his ways and begins to view the world and his place in it in a whole new light. Soon enough he finds himself falling hard for the shy and endlessly compassionate Elliott, and he must work to prove that he can be the man Elliott deserves.
I absolutely adored this Christmas story. Elliott was a pure joy to read about. He might just be the sweetest, most endearing character I’ve read all year. Ash was a little harder to like, at least initially – he came across as a total jackass in those initial chapters – but he makes a quick turnaround (perhaps too fast for the likes of some), and soon becomes a caring and smitten man, who I grew to love. It was sweet and sexy, and very, very Christmassy (yay!). Together, Elliott and Ash provided lots of good romantic feels for this holiday season and I’m so glad I was talked into reading this one, because I may have overlooked this completely had it not been for a couple of good nudges from a few good GR friends. So, thanks, guys!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
Elliott Gaffney is as sweet and good-hearted as they come, and Christmas is definitely his favourite time of year. He works as a retail clerk at a high-end department store in Chicago, called Ashby’s, and at Christmastime he relishes in being an active participant in the store’s Christmas traditions. This year, Elliott gets to play the part of a Nutcracker in Ashby’s “North Pole," where he meets the store’s newest employee and this years in-store Santa, Ben.
Ben is like no one Elliott has ever met. He’s charming, confident and cocky. He’s the most beautiful man Elliott has ever seen, and much to Elliott’s surprise, Ben takes an immediate interest in him. Shy and inexperienced Elliott can’t help but become smitten with Ben, and soon enough the two begin to fall for one another.
The problem is that Ben isn’t who he says he is. He’s actually Bennett “Ash” Ashby, heir apparent to the Ashby business fortune. He’s a playboy and a media darling – usually for all the wrong reasons. He’s also entitled and shockingly ignorant of the lifestyles of those less privileged. His sudden presence at Ashby’s is actually a punishment from his father, one doled out after a recent, very public, indiscretion. Initially, Ben/Ash is irritated at having to play commoner and work in-store as Santa during the holiday season, but after meeting Elliott and his friends, Ben/Ash quickly learns the error of his ways and begins to view the world and his place in it in a whole new light. Soon enough he finds himself falling hard for the shy and endlessly compassionate Elliott, and he must work to prove that he can be the man Elliott deserves.
I absolutely adored this Christmas story. Elliott was a pure joy to read about. He might just be the sweetest, most endearing character I’ve read all year. Ash was a little harder to like, at least initially – he came across as a total jackass in those initial chapters – but he makes a quick turnaround (perhaps too fast for the likes of some), and soon becomes a caring and smitten man, who I grew to love. It was sweet and sexy, and very, very Christmassy (yay!). Together, Elliott and Ash provided lots of good romantic feels for this holiday season and I’m so glad I was talked into reading this one, because I may have overlooked this completely had it not been for a couple of good nudges from a few good GR friends. So, thanks, guys!
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
February 28, 2017
3.5*
Ash is all about partying and living it up with his douche bag friends until one scandal sends him from riches to rags. Well, his version of rags. Not so much mine. But the scandal has made daddy mad and to teach his scandalicious son a lesson he sends him to Chicago to work as this Christmas seasons, Santa at one of their department stores, Ashby's. Ash bleaches his hair and wears contacts to disguise himself since he's a very recognizable guy and decides to go by Ben, as his first name is Bennett. I had hard time believing this dude was really that unrecognizable just by bleaching his hair and putting in some contacts. But maybe that's just me...
When he shows up to the store he automatically knows he's not going to be able to stick this out and calls daddy begging for a different punishment. But then he see's Elliot and thinks his punishment just might be worth it if he gets to spend time with this guy.
Elliot is the opposite of Ash. He's sweet, shy, and has a big heart. He is what Christmas cheer is all about. He loves the holiday and he especially loves is while working as a sales clerk at Ashby's. Ashby's puts on a huge Christmas North Pole exhibit and all the employee's are assigned different outfits for the occasion. Elliot feels like he's lucked out when he gets chosen to be one of the Nutcrackers that guards Santa.
When Elliot and Ben finally meet, Ben is flirty, confident, and charming. Elliot is kind of shocked in silence when he realizes this beautiful man is not only flirting with him, but that he's actually attracted to Elliot. Elliot is completely taken by Ben, but his shyness and inexperience makes him a bit hesitant. But Ben is fast to break down that wall and gets Elliot to agree to dinner with him. And this is were they begin.
The relationship is sweet and evolves fast. The major problem with this is that Ash is still Ben and Elliot doesn't know his real identity and Ash is afraid his reputation will end their relationship once Elliot finds out who he is.
During their time together Elliot and friends show Ash what the true meaning of Christmas is. They makes Ash realize that the way he has been living has been selfish and that money isn't all it's cracked up to be when you don't have people who truly care and love you to share it with. The love and support he gets from Elliot opens his eyes to whole new life he can have if only he can reveal the truth and keep Elliot in the aftermath.
Lovely story. Great Christmas read even if I did end reading it after the holiday. lol
I look forward to Trevor's story.
Ash is all about partying and living it up with his douche bag friends until one scandal sends him from riches to rags. Well, his version of rags. Not so much mine. But the scandal has made daddy mad and to teach his scandalicious son a lesson he sends him to Chicago to work as this Christmas seasons, Santa at one of their department stores, Ashby's. Ash bleaches his hair and wears contacts to disguise himself since he's a very recognizable guy and decides to go by Ben, as his first name is Bennett. I had hard time believing this dude was really that unrecognizable just by bleaching his hair and putting in some contacts. But maybe that's just me...
When he shows up to the store he automatically knows he's not going to be able to stick this out and calls daddy begging for a different punishment. But then he see's Elliot and thinks his punishment just might be worth it if he gets to spend time with this guy.
Elliot is the opposite of Ash. He's sweet, shy, and has a big heart. He is what Christmas cheer is all about. He loves the holiday and he especially loves is while working as a sales clerk at Ashby's. Ashby's puts on a huge Christmas North Pole exhibit and all the employee's are assigned different outfits for the occasion. Elliot feels like he's lucked out when he gets chosen to be one of the Nutcrackers that guards Santa.
When Elliot and Ben finally meet, Ben is flirty, confident, and charming. Elliot is kind of shocked in silence when he realizes this beautiful man is not only flirting with him, but that he's actually attracted to Elliot. Elliot is completely taken by Ben, but his shyness and inexperience makes him a bit hesitant. But Ben is fast to break down that wall and gets Elliot to agree to dinner with him. And this is were they begin.
The relationship is sweet and evolves fast. The major problem with this is that Ash is still Ben and Elliot doesn't know his real identity and Ash is afraid his reputation will end their relationship once Elliot finds out who he is.
During their time together Elliot and friends show Ash what the true meaning of Christmas is. They makes Ash realize that the way he has been living has been selfish and that money isn't all it's cracked up to be when you don't have people who truly care and love you to share it with. The love and support he gets from Elliot opens his eyes to whole new life he can have if only he can reveal the truth and keep Elliot in the aftermath.
Lovely story. Great Christmas read even if I did end reading it after the holiday. lol
I look forward to Trevor's story.
December 25, 2016
I read a ton of Christmas romances, and they can get a bit predictable. But I'm happy this one exceeds expectations as a fun, and oh-so-readable holiday treat. I'm not usually big on secret billionaire stories, but this one is super appealing. I liked Ash's character and how he changes over the course of the book. Elliot was such a sweetheart that I believed he could turn Ash's life around and make him value more than just money. And the writing kept me engaged all the way through. This author is new to me and has no other books listed on goodreads, but I hope she will write more.
April 18, 2017
I know this on one worked for many of my GR friends, but it just didn't work for me. Elliot's character was comically child-like in his love of the holiday season and his job as a Nutcracker in the department store North Pole. He was too innocent and awestruck to be perceived as a adult IMHO. Because if this, the sexual relationship between Elliot and Ben felt wrong and kinda yucky.
This book was very sweet with little to no angst and if you can get over Elliot's innocence, I am certain you will enjoy it.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
This book was very sweet with little to no angst and if you can get over Elliot's innocence, I am certain you will enjoy it.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
December 21, 2023
4.5 stars ...
I've read a few "5 star" Christmas tales ...
and this isn't *quite* in the same league as those ...
but it's thisclose! Enjoyed it very much!!
❤️🎅🎄❤️☃️❤️🦌❤️
I've read a few "5 star" Christmas tales ...
and this isn't *quite* in the same league as those ...
but it's thisclose! Enjoyed it very much!!
❤️🎅🎄❤️☃️❤️🦌❤️
December 19, 2016
Super, sugary sweet Christmas story.
I love that this was a full length book.
I love that there is going to be a spinoff.
This was very good :)
I love that this was a full length book.
I love that there is going to be a spinoff.
This was very good :)
Want to read
December 27, 2017Kindle freebie 12/27/17
December 29, 2022
The writing was on the wall from the very first page.
I knew what was going to happen. And...it did.
And yet, I still enjoyed riding along.
It's exactly as you'd expect from the blurb, with many enjoyable characters and some that grow on you.
I might have exercised some speed reading, but I was pleasantly content with the ending.
And...the dog was too cute!!
I knew what was going to happen. And...it did.
And yet, I still enjoyed riding along.
It's exactly as you'd expect from the blurb, with many enjoyable characters and some that grow on you.
I might have exercised some speed reading, but I was pleasantly content with the ending.
And...the dog was too cute!!
December 27, 2016
Very , very sweet .
Still 'tis the season and all that !
And i'll definitely check out the next in the series .
Still 'tis the season and all that !
And i'll definitely check out the next in the series .
April 4, 2017
DNF 75%
I give up -__- I try to read it in different occassions, but definitely this book is not for me. The story is cute, but Ben/Ash character is not believable at all and is narrated in a vey SLOW rythm for me.
I give up -__- I try to read it in different occassions, but definitely this book is not for me. The story is cute, but Ben/Ash character is not believable at all and is narrated in a vey SLOW rythm for me.
January 5, 2017
Durante la lectura de esta novela es posible sufrir caries fulminante y muerte neuronal por ñoñería.
December 9, 2021
I RECEIVED THIS HOLIDAY THEMED ROMANCE AS A FREEBIE ON AMAZON. *glowers Heather-ward* Because SOMEone told me it was free.
My Review: There are far, far, far too many w-bombs (over a dozen!) in this book. A few of them at the beginning are not what they initially seem to be, but the fact is that they don’t stop coming.
Speaking of coming…there’s more of that than I expected in a silly frothing Holiday-season treat like this book. It was an agreeable surprise that I got as much as I did, since it suited my mood that day perfectly. What was also comforting and comfortable was the plot’s absence of fanciness. There wasn’t anything grafted on or poked through to make it more Writerly. It’s a straightforward workplace grump-and-sunshine romp with the usual status and wealth gap.
“Ben” aka Ash the company’s big-boss’s son is forced among the hoi polloi for Xmas…into duty as the flagship store’s Santa! Tell me that’s for a single second believable…but Elliott, the humorously cast nutcracker positioned next to Santa, is there to whisper in “Ben”’s ear the requisite clues on how to handle the kiddies. Which he instantly turns into winning charm and sweetness!
Okay. So you see the Disbelief-alaya you’re going to be required to climb. Summiting K2 in tuxedo slippers without external oxygen would be easier for many, including me in another mood.
Also stretching one’s credulity muscles: Ash is being punished for being caught by the paparazzi in a car having sex with a fellow company director. (No word on that poor bastard’s fate. Can’t’ve been pretty.) Ash’s Page-Six priors are all with socially acceptable men…models, celebs, the like…and Ash’s father, while disapproving of his latest and one must acknowledge supremely stupid escapade, is barely even implied to be upset that it’s with a man. Just that man. And that he got caught. (Even when Ash's earlier struggles to be his queer self are touched on, they aren't foregrounded.)
For Elliott, whose gayness also isn’t remotely disapproved of by his gay and RGBFF colleagues at the store, “Ben” is the “pinch me I must be dreaming” guy, the one whose Look you intercept and turn around to see who he’s looking at…and it’s YOU!...and the bells ring and the birds sing! *wistful sigh* memories do have power.
For Ash, Elliott’s sincere and bone-deep love of the magical way the Holidays make hapiness so much easier to find and to share is intoxicating. A sincere pleasure is a rare thing in the world of the very privileged. Everything is much less simple when you’re rich. Every apple has a worm; every horse is Trojan. It’s all very easy…there’s always someone whose job it is to do the labor…but you pay (and pay and pay) for it with the complete and total absence of simplicity. This is why Marie Kondo’s nonsense is so very appealing to wealthy people.
The end product of these two very different men coming (!) together is a somewhat unsustainable HEA. We're in a romance world, but still a HFN would've worked fine...and left room for Reality. These are people from radically different backgrounds, and while opposites attract, similarities endure. You're given many chances to see bits of Ash's growing up process (eg, the Grinch call from his dad, his rescue of the dog and subsequent ability to overcome his collywobbles at dealing with poochie's ticks) and similar opportunities to see Elliott coming to terms with his quite normal fears about someone as handsome as Ash falling for him. But really? What my brain says is, "not a damn chance, they're from different worlds, they'll run out of common ground in seconds flat." The gift Stella Starling has is for making my sentimental "I always cry at weddings" side ruthlessly club that bastard into submission and take over the endocrine system, flooding me with oxytocin. I want to bond, so I want Ash and Elliott to bond, and therefore the...um...not-sturdy framework (too harsh to call it "flimsy" but...) of this relationship Is. Just. FINE.
That issue firmly dealt with (ignore the muffled screams coming from my closet-locked logic centers), we can touch on (!) the sex scenes: Hot enough, not too many or too few, and VERY MUCH NOT HETERO SAFE. No! Down! The mechanics of deflowering a man aren't skimped or dwelt on; and, for a wonder, the top's the PoV character! That's not ordinary, and Stella Starling did a good job of it...sadly, not the usual case. All three of the sex scenes have a certain...lovingkindness...to them, so they're not icky but they're likely to be uncomfortably detailed for those whose tastes don't run towards men with men.
At all events, this is a novel, not a novella; this is a story, not a set-up delivered with pretty wrapping paper; and this won't weigh you down as you're sipping your venti toasted white chocolate mocha, pondering how to survive the weirdness of a second Plague Yule. Smiles and fun all the way, please, Bibliosanta!
My Review: There are far, far, far too many w-bombs (over a dozen!) in this book. A few of them at the beginning are not what they initially seem to be, but the fact is that they don’t stop coming.
Speaking of coming…there’s more of that than I expected in a silly frothing Holiday-season treat like this book. It was an agreeable surprise that I got as much as I did, since it suited my mood that day perfectly. What was also comforting and comfortable was the plot’s absence of fanciness. There wasn’t anything grafted on or poked through to make it more Writerly. It’s a straightforward workplace grump-and-sunshine romp with the usual status and wealth gap.
“Ben” aka Ash the company’s big-boss’s son is forced among the hoi polloi for Xmas…into duty as the flagship store’s Santa! Tell me that’s for a single second believable…but Elliott, the humorously cast nutcracker positioned next to Santa, is there to whisper in “Ben”’s ear the requisite clues on how to handle the kiddies. Which he instantly turns into winning charm and sweetness!
Okay. So you see the Disbelief-alaya you’re going to be required to climb. Summiting K2 in tuxedo slippers without external oxygen would be easier for many, including me in another mood.
Also stretching one’s credulity muscles: Ash is being punished for being caught by the paparazzi in a car having sex with a fellow company director. (No word on that poor bastard’s fate. Can’t’ve been pretty.) Ash’s Page-Six priors are all with socially acceptable men…models, celebs, the like…and Ash’s father, while disapproving of his latest and one must acknowledge supremely stupid escapade, is barely even implied to be upset that it’s with a man. Just that man. And that he got caught. (Even when Ash's earlier struggles to be his queer self are touched on, they aren't foregrounded.)
For Elliott, whose gayness also isn’t remotely disapproved of by his gay and RGBFF colleagues at the store, “Ben” is the “pinch me I must be dreaming” guy, the one whose Look you intercept and turn around to see who he’s looking at…and it’s YOU!...and the bells ring and the birds sing! *wistful sigh* memories do have power.
For Ash, Elliott’s sincere and bone-deep love of the magical way the Holidays make hapiness so much easier to find and to share is intoxicating. A sincere pleasure is a rare thing in the world of the very privileged. Everything is much less simple when you’re rich. Every apple has a worm; every horse is Trojan. It’s all very easy…there’s always someone whose job it is to do the labor…but you pay (and pay and pay) for it with the complete and total absence of simplicity. This is why Marie Kondo’s nonsense is so very appealing to wealthy people.
The end product of these two very different men coming (!) together is a somewhat unsustainable HEA. We're in a romance world, but still a HFN would've worked fine...and left room for Reality. These are people from radically different backgrounds, and while opposites attract, similarities endure. You're given many chances to see bits of Ash's growing up process (eg, the Grinch call from his dad, his rescue of the dog and subsequent ability to overcome his collywobbles at dealing with poochie's ticks) and similar opportunities to see Elliott coming to terms with his quite normal fears about someone as handsome as Ash falling for him. But really? What my brain says is, "not a damn chance, they're from different worlds, they'll run out of common ground in seconds flat." The gift Stella Starling has is for making my sentimental "I always cry at weddings" side ruthlessly club that bastard into submission and take over the endocrine system, flooding me with oxytocin. I want to bond, so I want Ash and Elliott to bond, and therefore the...um...not-sturdy framework (too harsh to call it "flimsy" but...) of this relationship Is. Just. FINE.
That issue firmly dealt with (ignore the muffled screams coming from my closet-locked logic centers), we can touch on (!) the sex scenes: Hot enough, not too many or too few, and VERY MUCH NOT HETERO SAFE. No! Down! The mechanics of deflowering a man aren't skimped or dwelt on; and, for a wonder, the top's the PoV character! That's not ordinary, and Stella Starling did a good job of it...sadly, not the usual case. All three of the sex scenes have a certain...lovingkindness...to them, so they're not icky but they're likely to be uncomfortably detailed for those whose tastes don't run towards men with men.
At all events, this is a novel, not a novella; this is a story, not a set-up delivered with pretty wrapping paper; and this won't weigh you down as you're sipping your venti toasted white chocolate mocha, pondering how to survive the weirdness of a second Plague Yule. Smiles and fun all the way, please, Bibliosanta!
February 24, 2017
Well, I knew what I would be getting here, right? Unrealistic and too sweet, predictable and full of clichés. But I kinda felt like reading more fluff, and I thought maybe I'd like the main characters and it would be nice...
It was nice, I can't say it wasn't. What I liked in the book was its Christmas spirit. Even if it was a bit didactic. But still, some moments were truly touching.
And I liked the dog :) He's actually the reason why I finished the book - he appeared just when I was about to DNF.
As for the main characters and the romance part. One thing - I was bored. Didn't want to skim but some scenes made me zone out. I also didn't believe in Ben/Ash's character transformation. Like at all. Even with all the warnings how unrealistic the story was - it was just empty and illogical. Like he was one person and then abruptly turned into a different one.
And I didn't like Elliot. "He gave his virginity to Ben". What? Is he a man or a damsel? And he was so quick to believe that Ben betrayed him. And everything was about his feelings getting hurt, he never once thought about Ben/Ash's feelings or him being hurt.
Ta-da, a good formula: I didn't hate this book. I didn't like it either.
It was nice, I can't say it wasn't. What I liked in the book was its Christmas spirit. Even if it was a bit didactic. But still, some moments were truly touching.
And I liked the dog :) He's actually the reason why I finished the book - he appeared just when I was about to DNF.
As for the main characters and the romance part. One thing - I was bored. Didn't want to skim but some scenes made me zone out. I also didn't believe in Ben/Ash's character transformation. Like at all. Even with all the warnings how unrealistic the story was - it was just empty and illogical. Like he was one person and then abruptly turned into a different one.
And I didn't like Elliot. "He gave his virginity to Ben". What? Is he a man or a damsel? And he was so quick to believe that Ben betrayed him. And everything was about his feelings getting hurt, he never once thought about Ben/Ash's feelings or him being hurt.
Ta-da, a good formula: I didn't hate this book. I didn't like it either.
January 5, 2018
Utterly adorable Christmas story that I snagged when it was offered for free on Amazon. Excellent story-telling, and such a sweet romance. I adored Elliott - he was such a sweetheart, and so very kind to everyone, always believing only the best of people. And I loved watching Ash grow throughout this book and believe that he could be more than what he had been.
December 21, 2023
Perfect Christmas novel!
Generally, I avoid the “lying tropes” like “fake boyfriend” or “billionaire disguised as regular person”… there are exceptions and this was one of them! I absolutely loved everything about this story! The reasons that Ben/Ash was in hiding was believable, and his character growth throughout the story was amazing! Who wouldn’t fall for Elliott and strive to become the man he deserves? Elliott was a total sweetheart! This was my first Stella Starling novel but it definitely won’t be my last! 5 stars! Highly recommended!
Generally, I avoid the “lying tropes” like “fake boyfriend” or “billionaire disguised as regular person”… there are exceptions and this was one of them! I absolutely loved everything about this story! The reasons that Ben/Ash was in hiding was believable, and his character growth throughout the story was amazing! Who wouldn’t fall for Elliott and strive to become the man he deserves? Elliott was a total sweetheart! This was my first Stella Starling novel but it definitely won’t be my last! 5 stars! Highly recommended!
December 29, 2017
3.5 stars rounded up because it's Christmas after all and I did enjoy it :)
Fluffy, sweet, minimal drama or plot, but somehow very satisfying none the less. Must be the writing I guess. Ben/Ash's transformation from bon-viveur playboy to a caring and warm person was too fast to be convincing, and it was my main issue with the story, but Elliot was lovable and I wanted him to have a HEA, so I overlooked it. I also liked the dual POV, I liked seeing what was going on in both of the heroes minds.
Fluffy, sweet, minimal drama or plot, but somehow very satisfying none the less. Must be the writing I guess. Ben/Ash's transformation from bon-viveur playboy to a caring and warm person was too fast to be convincing, and it was my main issue with the story, but Elliot was lovable and I wanted him to have a HEA, so I overlooked it. I also liked the dual POV, I liked seeing what was going on in both of the heroes minds.
February 7, 2017
I read this over a month ago during an extended book binge and completely forgot to rate it.
Cute, cute, cute.
It's realistic and believable in the same way that candy canes are nutritious and packed with antioxidants, but if you're reading a Christmas-themed story like this, you've probably checked your disbelief at the gate.
Enjoy for what it is, which is fun and heartwarming.
Cute, cute, cute.
It's realistic and believable in the same way that candy canes are nutritious and packed with antioxidants, but if you're reading a Christmas-themed story like this, you've probably checked your disbelief at the gate.
Enjoy for what it is, which is fun and heartwarming.
December 11, 2021
This was very sweet and one of the better Christmas stories around. Elliott is truly a wonder with his enthusiasm for everything. I am able to suspend disbelief for this story hence the high rating. It made me feel all happy and warm.
December 6, 2022
4+
Z jednej strony ta książka jest totalnie nierzeczywista, a z drugiej tak cudnie urocza, słodka, pełna świątecznego ciepła, ducha, świątecznej magii i cudów, że pitolić to 😁 Rozpłynęłam się 💙
Z jednej strony ta książka jest totalnie nierzeczywista, a z drugiej tak cudnie urocza, słodka, pełna świątecznego ciepła, ducha, świątecznej magii i cudów, że pitolić to 😁 Rozpłynęłam się 💙
February 27, 2017
I read this as a prelude to the "At Last,The Beloved" series I wanted to check out.
This was sweet. A bit too sweet at times but stil cool. :)
This was sweet. A bit too sweet at times but stil cool. :)
October 2, 2018
Christmas stories in September?? Why the hell not, if they're as sweet as this one. 3.5 stars rounded up. The sort of Xmas tale you want to believe will come true, but very rarely does. Cinderfella meets Arthur, with Scrooge thrown in for good measure.
Playboy Ash has disappointed his overbearing and detached father one too many times, and is 'banished' to the Ashby company's Chicago store as punishment. Christmas is just around the corner and due to unfortunate circumstances, Ash [or Ben as he is known at the store] is pencilled in to be in a starring role as substitute Santa 🎅 in the firm's Xmas activities.
Elliott Gaffney is a popular member of staff, and especially loves the Christmas season at the store. He relives his memories as a little boy visiting the store, and taking part in all the festive fun. Now he's an actual employee, he uses his discount to buy things for the kids that leave wishes on the Giving Tree 🎄 so that they'll have at least one present for the holidays....Does this story have a Happy ending?? Enjoy....
Playboy Ash has disappointed his overbearing and detached father one too many times, and is 'banished' to the Ashby company's Chicago store as punishment. Christmas is just around the corner and due to unfortunate circumstances, Ash [or Ben as he is known at the store] is pencilled in to be in a starring role as substitute Santa 🎅 in the firm's Xmas activities.
Elliott Gaffney is a popular member of staff, and especially loves the Christmas season at the store. He relives his memories as a little boy visiting the store, and taking part in all the festive fun. Now he's an actual employee, he uses his discount to buy things for the kids that leave wishes on the Giving Tree 🎄 so that they'll have at least one present for the holidays....Does this story have a Happy ending?? Enjoy....
January 20, 2022
Well ... suspend disbelief and go with the romance is what a fellow reviewer recommended. I tried. But besides being absurd it was boring. Way too much repetitive inner dialogue to get this story going.
A rich kid protagonist turning 180 degrees in his believes. A poor kid protagonist made tragic because - what? - he grew up poor?
I gave up when daddy became utterly mean and ridiculous, the rich kid started outright lying, and the guys had sex while the dog really needed to shit!
I made it to 60%, then wish the rich kid good luck!
A rich kid protagonist turning 180 degrees in his believes. A poor kid protagonist made tragic because - what? - he grew up poor?
I gave up when daddy became utterly mean and ridiculous, the rich kid started outright lying, and the guys had sex while the dog really needed to shit!
I made it to 60%, then wish the rich kid good luck!
December 28, 2016
Very cute Christmas story about a bad boy being reformed by a shy, sweet "normal" guy. Dragged on just a bit too long but was sweet and a little sexy.
December 15, 2021
Just an ok read for me. I couldn’t imagine that a department store would care how you spent your employee discount. Especially if you were using it to make children happy. I also thought the story was pretty boring. Three stars from me was being generous since it’s Christmas season.
December 21, 2021
Not for me.
If you like romances featuring a hidden identity that isn't disclosed before the characters are in a relationship, miscommunication, and the inevitable fallout this might work better for you. All in all I found the plot was predictable, the characters immature, and I hated that Ash didn't explain who he was to Elliot before he got him in bed, and became his boyfriend, and then .
Obviously, your mileage may vary, but this was a miss for me.
If you like romances featuring a hidden identity that isn't disclosed before the characters are in a relationship, miscommunication, and the inevitable fallout this might work better for you. All in all I found the plot was predictable, the characters immature, and I hated that Ash didn't explain who he was to Elliot before he got him in bed, and became his boyfriend, and then .
Obviously, your mileage may vary, but this was a miss for me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews