The Sheikh's Christmas Present

Shadid Sheikhs #2

by Leslie North

The Christmas season is a time for giving, and pilot Maria Walken has a planeload of gifts she’s gathering for Syrian refugees. Her charity has gotten a bad rap, and this time she’s determined to get her cargo delivered in time for the holiday. When a businessman shows up in need of a lift, she can’t stand his display of wealth…or the way he takes her breath away. But when he offers a large donation to her charity, Maria can hardly refuse.

Sheikh Jarik Shadid is trying to make it to Lebanon to testify against a former friend. With his need for discretion and few options to choose from, he’s more than willing to contribute to Maria’s charity in exchange for a seat on her cargo plane. But as a freak snowstorm blows in extending their travel plans, Jarik’s sensible exterior is starting to crack under the beautiful weight of the principled pilot.

Maria always promised herself she’d never fall for a rich man, but as they work to spread holiday cheer, she’s beginning to wonder if Jarik is everything she’s ever wanted for Christmas.

BOOK 3, 'The Sheikh's Christmas Baby' OUT 20th DECEMBER 2016 !

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

172 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 13, 2016

About the author

New to Leslie? Readers suggest starting with 'The Bossy One' (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6BP3BBF) —Imagine a sunny Minnesotan Mary Poppins, employed by a grumpy Irish billionaire. The story is a blend of humor, revenge, passion, heartbreak, hope, and witty banter. As one reader put it, ‘This story had me squealing at the romantic moments and silly moments.’

Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!

In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!

Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.

She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!

I'm Social Too:
Website: www.leslienorthbooks.com
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TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leslienorthcomments
Instagram:www.instagram.com/leslienorth_books

Reviews

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second Shadid brother finds his love in the most unexpected place. Jarik is trying to get to Lebanon to deal with his friend Kivi and the trial that can keep his former friend behind bars. Maria is on a mission to get her plane filled with toys and such to Syria and the refugee camp for her charity Christmas Crates. When Jarik uses his money to get a spot on Maria's plane neither thought they would fall for the other. Their story isn't without its hardships; a charity missing money, the weather that grounds them and neither being totally honest but that kind of love is worth every struggle they may face if they have the strength to admit how they feel. The Shadids are finding their Christmas spirit with a little help from the women they love. This is another great read from Leslie North. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sheikh's Christmas Present (Shadid Sheikhs Series Book 2) Who needs mistletoe when a snowstorm can prove just as rewarding? Jarik is easy on the eyes, with a bank account big enough to draw anyone's attention. Maria leads with her heart. This firecracker wants to make a difference in the world and her charity work helps her do just that. When Mr. Ego and Ms. Chip on Her Shoulder meet the chill in the air quickly becomes a raging inferno. The Sheikh's Christmas Present brought heated exchanges and magical moments as it lit up my heart with this dynamite duo.

[Laurie Gyd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great love story

So so romantic-full of a sassy determined woman who runs a charity to provide much needed medicines, food and toys to proverbs he's families around the world. Enter a stubborn, hot sheik, mix the two and you get fireworks.

[Margaret Farquhar · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gripped you from the start. The story followed the usual romance genre, but I read it all in one sitting as I couldn't put it down. It was a sweet romance with some difficult times for the couple, following a large donation to a Christmas charity. I look forward to reading the first book in the series although the story doesn't require it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maria is a pilot who runs a Christmas charity. She is closed off to the idea of any sort of long-term romantic relationship. Jarik needs to get to Lebanon to complete an incredibly important task. He's not thinking about a long-term romantic relationship. When the two of them meet they are immediately drawn to each other. They both are great at not sharing important information with one another and that hinders any sort of future. Or does it?

Maria is committed to her career as a pilot and her charity, Christmas Crates. She's not a very complex character. She is standoffish about relationships because of her mother's infidelities. She is very self-reliant. Jarik is the second son so he knows it's unlikely he'll take over his father's role as Sheik. He lives a good life with access to lots of money. He has a solid sense of right and wrong. He's not a very complex character. Like his brother, Samir, he has been hurting since his mother dies years ago. He is very self-reliant. The one thing that I will say is that I really appreciated the epilogue but I won't say why except that it gives the characters a little more depth.

This one didn't give me all of the feels but it was still enjoyable. I would prefer to give it 3.5 stars but that wasn't an option so I gave it 4. I will read more from this author and certainly the final book in this series because I want to know how it is all tied up in the end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Claudia Blanton · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you are looking for realism, you might want to consider reading another book. Actually, if you are looking for realism in romance novels in general, you are reading the wrong genre. To me, romance novels are about escape, fantasy in a somewhat relatable setting and entertainment.

The Sheik's Christmas present is that exactly. An entertaining ride, that features charming characters who are trying to make the best out of situations they have been put in. Yes, I was a little bit put off by how much the female main character, Maria Walken, disliked wealth and money, almost a little too much, but I have actually met a few people who think of being wealthy equals being a bad person, no matter if there is evidence to the contrary.

My dislike of Maria was counterbalanced by the charming, somewhat overbearing male lead, Jarik, who had his own agenda, and would stop nothing from getting him there.

I did, however, find the whole "Christmas setting" at the end overbearing. The subject matter centered around Syrian refugees and the Middle East, not exactly the place where anyone would be to eager to celebrate a Christian holiday.

This little unrealistic romance made for an entertaining read, perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon.

I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

[Sharon Dunn · Rating 4 out of 5]

You never know what these young Sheikh's are up to but you can bet that the women don't make it easy on them. This was a great little holiday treat. I love to see how the men that seem so strong are the ones that fall the hardest!!

[Kristin]

I would like to thank netgalley and Relay Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

I really didn't get into this book. I felt that she should already be charging him with sexual harassment.

[De Anna Henley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beach Christmas.
Awesome book. Maria runs a charity that distributes Christmas presents to children in refugee camps. As a pilot she makes sure they get there along with her friend, Tessa. When Jarik offers her a large donation to take him with her at first she declines but, he’s willing to double it and she can’t say no. After an emergency landing and another detour they end up being together for a few days. During this time Jarik falls in love with Maria but, she won’t allow herself to fall for him. She sent Tessa ahead to make sure everything was ready for the celebration they had planned. Her brother, Sebastian, should have been there already but wasn’t and he wasn’t returning her calls. He finally calls and he’ll be there in a couple hours and Maria says they will be there that night. So, when Jarik and Maria arrive she is surprised when Tessa says Sebastian still hasn’t shown up yet. Jarik tries to get her to calm down but when he hits too close to home about his money Maria lashes out and tells him to go. The next morning she is exhausted from sorting out the gifts when Sebastian finally makes an appearance with the press in tow. When he takes credit for her work she is furious and wants to know where the rest of the money is. Maria yells at him until it dawns on her. When the scandal hits Sebastian could single-handedly destroy her charity’s reputation. Maria looks at her bank account and is shocked to see that Jarik kept his word and deposited his donation and at the same time she gets an email from him requesting a meeting. In light of her brother’s deception she can’t refuse him. Jarik has no plans to interfere with the funds, he just needs an excuse to talk to Maria again. She has walls up around her but, he’s determined to turn them to rubble at his feet. Who will win?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joy Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheikh Jarik was determined to fix what happened. He left his security detail at home and was traveling to the court case. His father told him to let it go. Jarik wanted to make sure Kivi got what was coming to him. While riding a bus to get to the airport he noticed a woman trying to catch up to the bus. He asked the driver to stop for her. She was flustered and looking for her wallet. He paid her fair and the bus started moving. The woman fell right into him. She was able to feel all of him. Maria was the pilot trying to make her way to Syria to deliver the Christmas gifts and supplies. While talking to Tessa a man appeared by the cockpit. Jarik offered Maria money for a ride. He didn’t want to be noticed. During the flight something happened to the plane where they had to land. Maria was told the plane was grounded and it will be awhile. Jarik was determined not to leave Maria alone. Maria wanted to go separate ways and was almost attacked. Jarik saved her and refused to leave her side. Maria was fighting her feelings for Jarik. The come from separate worlds. They want different things in life but she just can’t stay away. Things are heating up between them. Maria has not heard from her brother. She is worried about her charity. Maria learned people are not what they seem. This is a good story. I can’t wait to read about the oldest brother

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jarik is the second son of the King of Al-Harmid. He sets his mind on getting justice for his friends who have been swindled by his old friend Kivi. To get to the trial, he has to find a ride without getting any unwanted attention. He wants a seat on Maria’s flight by offering a donation to Maria’s charity. Maria runs the Christmas Crate, which delivers Christmas presents to the refugee children. She just wants to fly the plane and deliver the presents to the kids. She has serious resentment to the wealthy, even though she needs their donations to run her charity. When Jarik and Maria meet on a city bus, sparks fly. Then the weather gets bad, they are stuck together to wait. Jarik is determined to win Maria over. Once he gets to know Maria better, he genuinely wants to see her happy. But Maria resists and fights. She doesn’t believe they can fit together long enough to have a relationship. The story unravels the lost fund of the charity, how Jarik uses money as a tool to help people, and how much they love each other. Neither one of them likes to celebrate Christmas, and that’s exactly what they get. This is a sweet story. Maria is ornery and set in her ways. Lucky for her Jarik is sweet and kind.

[Kim Mears · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book in the series.

Maria is late to the airport, she manages to catch a bus but then cannot find her purse to pay. A sexy stranger helps her out, who ends up going to the same destination. Maria is a pilot and is setting off to deliver christmas presents to refugees in Syria through her charity, she cannot let her misson fail. She needs to get there even though there is a storm. She is approached by the sexy stranger who wants a lift as she is the only flight leaving due to the storm. He ends up being a rich member of a royal family and offers her money to help her out.
Jarik is the middle son of the ruling Sheikh. He decides to go to the trial of his supposed friend to make sure that he gets what he deserves. He asks for help from Maria as her plane is the only one leaving.
However, there seems to be someone out to sabotage Maria's trip and when they have to stop to get the plane fixed, Maria is nearly attacked until Jarik rescues her.
Spending more time together increases the attraction they feel for each other, but they are from different worlds. Can they find a HEA with each other.

I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura Moylan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria Walken needed to catch the bus, to catch a plane to Syria. She meets up with her friend Tess to bring the toy donations from Christmas Crates. A charity she’d started five years ago, that brought toys, medicine, and necessities to refugee camps around the world. But there had been problems the last two years of missing money, etc. her brother, Sebastian blamed it on poor investments but the papers were saying other things. The man on the bus who paid for her as her wallet was eaten by her rather large bag, ends up going on her plane because it’s the only one still taking off for Syria and money talks. It’s Sheikh Jarik, middle Son of the Crowned Sheikh Jibreel Shadid. Omg plot twists! Jarik is going after Kivi. Mayhem and more bad luck ensues. More and more.

Ok, Jarik may be hot, suave, but he can kick butt. That is pretty much just a bit hotter than his younger brother in book 1, Samir. I find that very interesting. The author is wonderfully descriptive and I felt like I was watching a movie with this series. I’m going to have to start backtracking on her other books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Korkoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two Hearts Of Gold Become One -
Maria’s life was solely based around her charity, which meant relationships were the last thing on her mind. However, spending time with Jarik seemed to change how she felt. Jarik wasn’t looking for love or a relationship, but he knew the moment he met Maria, that she was going to be a part of his life. Their relationship didn’t run smooth, due to their differing ideas about how to use money and what they both wanted from each other, but spending time together actually helped them reevaluate their previous way of thinking.

I really enjoyed reading this story, the angst, push and pull, suspense and pleasurable intimate encounters. I found all characters well developed and the storyline very interesting, as it wasn’t just about romance, but also had an act of philanthropy, altruism, family betrayal and healing from a past loss. I really hope that Kashif also get his story. This book is definitely worth downloading for not only your reading pleasure now, but also keeping it in your library to re-read it in the future.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's wonderful to have Christmas in the middle of the hot summer we are having! This story hits the spot. Maria runs a charity that delivers presents to refugees in Syria. Jarik needs a ride, keeping him anonymous to go and testify against a former friend. The two make a deal, but get so much more than what they bargained for! Leslie North writes and entertaining story with witty banter, frustration and love. Maria has a huge heart, but I at times became very frustrated with her. She would do anything to sabotage her feelings for Jarik. Jarik is nothing short of persistent and really has to work to win his woman. It's a quick, fun listen with a wonderful message of sharing with those less fortunate.

This is my first narration by Joseph Tobey and I am very impressed. He has a large array of voices, as there were quite a few characters scattered throughout the book. Each has it's own personality and is easily distinguishable to the character. His portrayal nfused a liveliness and passion into a wonderful novel.

[Toula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have it in audio
This is book 2 of the series. This was a great short listen. But it was full of heart , love and fun. Leslie knows how to draw the listener in and engage their heart .
Hero is Jarik. Heroine in Maria.

Maria is on a mission since it’s the Christmas season. She sees all the children in the US hVe a great Christmas and she wants the same thing for the children in Syria. She loves doing what she does. It’s all charity for her .

Jarik needs to get to Syria for personal reasons. He’s one of the sons of the Sheik. And he needs to be home . He’s trying to keep his friend from going behind bars. He’s desperate.
Maria has a plane to get to her destination. Jarik needs her plane and is willing to pay her for it. Maria is put off from any man that thinks he can just throw his money around

Jarik is attracted to Maria. How does he change her mind. Do both of them do what they set out to do

The narrator Joseph is great. He knew how to do all the characters, you knew which ones by his voice

[Kathleen Ryder · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romance novels are, quite literally, the absolute best way to escape the reality of the world around us and indulge in some completely unrealistic romance and adventure. I am completely and unashamedly a devoted romance reader and I will jump and any chance to grab an #arc of a romance book to review.

I am a huge fan of Leslie North’s sheikhs and was super happy to be able to read The Sheikh's Christmas Present (Shadid Sheikhs Series Book 2). Although this is book two, you do not need to have read the first book in order to understand this book.

Sheikh Jarik is gorgeous, with a massive bank account. Maria is a charity worker, wanting to make a difference. When Jarik and Maria meet, sparks fly.

The Sheikh's Christmas Present is full of heat as this stubborn Sheikh and this determined woman discover that they have more in common that just their truce.

A fun, escapist read. A great way to spend an hour or two.

Thank you to BookSprout for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Knight Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jarik and Maria met unexpectedly on the way to the airport, but they got more acquainted, when Jarik requested a ride along with them to Syria. He had left his security detail behind, and he was trying to make it to Lebanon to testify at a friend's trial without any fanfare. These two had a overwhelming chemistry together. Jarik decided early on that Maria was special, and she was the one for him. Maria on the other hand was a hard sell. All she could see was that they came from two different worlds, and they would never fit into each other's worlds. He had money, and she only saw people with money doing bad things. Jarik had a tough time peeling down the layers of Maria getting to her true self so she could understand herself and accept him for who he was, and what he would do to have her. An amazing book that you will not be able to put down until you finish, because you will be on the edge of your chair waiting to see what happens next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Joyce M. H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jarik is the Sheikh of Shadid and is in of a ride to Lebanon to testify against a former friend. Maria is a pilot and with the Christmas season approaching she has is on her way to Syria to spread Christmas cheer with her gift giving charity. Maria’s charity is in trouble and her brother is supposed to accompany her on her trip and he is a no show. There are rumors of missing money which is not good when it comes to Maria’s charity Christmas Crates which she could possibly lose her funding for. Jarik convinces Maria into letting him ride along with her and promises to make a donation to her charity. A snowstorm catches the two off guard and they become stranded. Maria is not too fond of the wealthy which include Jarik. With the two-spending time together Maria’s feelings are changing.

Is Maria’s brother responsible for the missing money, did Jarik make it to the trail, did Marie deliver her Christmas Crates to Syria, is there an HEA in store for Maria and Jarik?

[Elaine A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria is a pilot who also runs a charity called Christmas Crates. She is trying to get presents to a group for Christmas. Jarik is second in line for ruler of his country. But he needs to get to a trial and he knows his father and brothers won’t like his involvement. He offers Maria money if she will let him fly with her to deliver the boxes. Maria also can’t get in touch with her brother who is supposed to be helping her. And there have been rumors of missing money. If she can’t figure out what is going on, she may lose funding for next year. And lots of kids will have to do without Christmas. Maria resents Jarik “throwing his money around” to resolve some of her problems. Lots going on, including an unwanted attraction to each other. A really great story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda Whitacre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas is Maria’s favorite time of year. Several years ago the pilot started a charity, “Christmas Crates” to pass out Christmas gifts to children stuck in refugee camps at Christmas time. She loves seeing their little faces full of wonder.
Sheikh Jarik of Al-Harmid is on a mission to right a wrong. With the bad weather, Jarik is desperate for a flight so he convinces Maria to let him ride on her plane full of gifts. From takeoff on Maria and her plane encounter one problem after another. Jarik is finding that Maria captivating. He thinks she even may be…his. Maria though is fighting her attraction to Jarik. This is a sweet slow-burning romance with a wonderful happy ending! I received a free advanced copy of the story from Booksprout and I am leaving my opinion because I review everything. Linda

[Maggi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria started a charity to deliver gifts to refugee camps in Syria Sotheby’s families could have a good Christmas. She is bound and determined to get the gifts there by Christmas. Sheikh Jarik Shadid, is determined to get to Lebanon to testify at the trial of Kivi, a one-time friend who swindled money from his friends and stole life savings from middle class people. He propositions Maria into getting a ride on her plane for a donation to her charity. The attraction between the two is palpable but she can’t stand that he is so rich and throws his money around all the time. A great storyline and wonderful characters with a HEA. This is the 2nd book in the Shadid Sheikh series and well worth the read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kelly DeMarco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Taking chances and different perspectives
Sheikh’s Christmas Present (Shadid Shiekhs Book 2) by Leslie North is a little action adventure, holiday cheer and steamy romance. Jarik and Maria come at this adventure for different reasons. Jarik keeps his a secret which leads Maria to make assumptions.
As this couple encounters set backs and obstacles to their destination, Jarik finds himself enamored and feeling the urge to protect and ensure all goes well. Feelings and chemistry bring this unlikely couple together.
Overall, even though it seems like their backgrounds would prevent a lasting relationship, just the opposite occurs when it becomes apparent there's more in common once their perceptions of each other changes. Another HEA is on the horizon for this family of Sheikhs.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria Walken has worked hard building Christmas Crates, a program where she delivers Christmas to refugees in Syria. She is stressed as there seems to be money missing and contributors are threatening to pull out of giving donations. She can’t reach her brother, a snowstorm delays her, and Sheikh Jarik Shadid has made an offer of a donation in exchange for a seat on her plane that she can’t refuse. She had a problem with wealthy people that think they can buy their way out of anything so when her attraction to Jarik is coming to life, she knows it can’t go anywhere because of his wealth. Will it be too late when she finds there is more to him than she thought.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved The Sheikh's Christmas Present: Book 2 of Shadid Sheikhs. Jarik needed a pilot to get him as close as possible to Beirut. Marie was taking Christmas presents to Syria and Jarik promised a generous donation for her help. Although she hated when people flaunted their money she agreed. Their chemistry was off the charts but they couldn’t be more than a quick fling, their worlds were to different. Jarik wasn’t going to allow her to push him away, he knew what they shared was life changing. Could he convince Marie? A great storyline and lovable characters. I loved the first two books in the series, I can’t wait for the 3rd. I would definitely recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Potter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Will Jarik & Maria take off or crash & burn?

The Sheikh's Christmas Present is 5 star excellence from start to finish. The storyline for Jarik & Maria is definitely enemies to lovers which I believe is what grabs your attention from the very 1st line until the last line. They say there is a fine between love & hate. What will it take for these two to cross that line? You can't deny there are sparks between Jarik & Maria but will her disdain for the wealthy destroy what could be a Christmas miracle she's been longing for? I highly recommend this book as well as the rest of the series. Awesome reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Danee · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story. The author, like all other books, has written a story with strong characters and characters that will keep you glued to your book from start to finish. So is the story of Maria and Jarik. The chemistry and attraction is immediately palpable between them but they don't immediately know what to do with it and it's a bit of attraction and repulsion. Will they have a happy ending together? To find out, I advise you to read their story and discovering love for yourself is definitely recommended!

I received a Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maria ran a charity that delivered Christmas presents and supplies to refugee camps in Syria. She meets Jarik on a bus and he is very attracted to her. He bribes his way on to the plane she is flying and things go from their. Her brother is stealing money from her charlty and she tries to keep it a secret from him at first. They get to know each other and she fights falling in love with him. The characters are good and it was fun seeing characters from the previous book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Maria begins hearing bad things about her charity, Christmas Crates, it upsets her because this year's shipment may be the last. In the Middle East with her friend Tessa and cargo hold of crates, Maria gets a surprise when Sheikh Jarik Shadid enters her plane with a deal, one Maria can't pass up. This story has a neverending list of things holding up the shipment from arriving in Syria on time, but who cares when there's so much fun to be had? I very highly recommend this book.

I received a copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Loreli Jessee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely enjoyed this exciting story. Maria is so caring, all she cares about is giving the refugee children an awesome Christmas. Jarik wants to help with it all, he has to earn her trust first. Will he be able to without any issues? I sure hope so. I loved how this book takes you away to places you probably aren’t going to see. I loved how everything was described it made you feel as if you were a part of it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.