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12 Months of Romance | 24 Reasons to Love: A Holiday Anthology
A year of romance you can devour in one sitting...
This anthology is filled with emotion and holiday spirit. Themed around holiday celebrations ranging from sweet to sizzling, these 24 scintillating stories will give you plenty of reasons to revel in love.
If you like office romances, best friends to lovers, second-chance romances, unexpected encounters, sci-fi gay romances, star-crossed lovers...There's a story for everyone.
And if you're in the market for new book boyfriends, this holiday collection will make you swoon for a racy social worker, an irresistible alpha male, a hot office-mate, a smoldering doctor on holiday duty and a sexy single dad!
12 Months of Romance, 24 Reasons to Love celebrates love all year round.
Featuring stories from:
Erleen Alvarez * Kate Anolin * Ysa Arcangel * Ella Banta * Barbie Barbieto * Rachelle Belaro * Cindy dela Cruz * Catherine Dellosa * Elizabeth Galit * Clara Gamboa * Ren Guevara * Khiara Laurea * Johanna Lee * Eris Peñaluna * Farrah Polestico * Michael Recto * Kit Salazar * Miel Salva * Aileen Santos * Maria Criselda R. Santos * Yeyet Soriano * Marian Tee * Celestine Trinidad
This anthology is filled with emotion and holiday spirit. Themed around holiday celebrations ranging from sweet to sizzling, these 24 scintillating stories will give you plenty of reasons to revel in love.
If you like office romances, best friends to lovers, second-chance romances, unexpected encounters, sci-fi gay romances, star-crossed lovers...There's a story for everyone.
And if you're in the market for new book boyfriends, this holiday collection will make you swoon for a racy social worker, an irresistible alpha male, a hot office-mate, a smoldering doctor on holiday duty and a sexy single dad!
12 Months of Romance, 24 Reasons to Love celebrates love all year round.
Featuring stories from:
Erleen Alvarez * Kate Anolin * Ysa Arcangel * Ella Banta * Barbie Barbieto * Rachelle Belaro * Cindy dela Cruz * Catherine Dellosa * Elizabeth Galit * Clara Gamboa * Ren Guevara * Khiara Laurea * Johanna Lee * Eris Peñaluna * Farrah Polestico * Michael Recto * Kit Salazar * Miel Salva * Aileen Santos * Maria Criselda R. Santos * Yeyet Soriano * Marian Tee * Celestine Trinidad
444 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2017
18 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
Ysa Arcangel
16 books136 followersYsa Arcangel is the author of the Moments to Remember Series, Underneath It All and Love at First Sit. She has also written an urban fantasy novella, “Nexus Series Book 1: Anathema”. She is based in Manila and is a loving partner to a very talented chef. She is also a fan of tattoos, a lover of giant dogs, and an enthusiast of extreme sports.
In real life, she is a Spanish speaking GDS Consultant and mother to three amazing kids. Her alter ego is an attention seeking and a hopeless romantic author who melts over a tattooed hero with 6-pack abs. Her alter ego is extrovert and a social media junkie. And just like in real life a coffee addict.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
November 23, 2017
The last few days had been really hectic for me. But I made sure I've got a book to read before I hit the bed. My day is never complete without a story. Luckily for me, I had a chance to read this awesome anthology that allowed me to read 24 totally different short stories that made my heart go pitter patter.
I met doctors, resident surgeons and interns in Endings and Beginnings with fireworks capping off their night in the hospital, and there's another kind of explosion happening in Marian Tee's stories (OMG, as always, Marian Tee knew how to tickle my fantasies, LOL). Begin Again had me grinning at a 26-year old Juliana finally having someone to date on Valentine's Day after an awkward encounter with her (rather arrogant) ex-boyfriend). One thing I liked, though, Juliana is a Full Metal Alchemist fan!
I also loved Blooms for Rent, a perfect Fathers' Day tribute; there's also a Bottle of Chardonay that's great for relishing past memories of two old friends who had a fallout after the guy was engaged and the bestfriend couldn't hide her feelings for him. A drunken Jesse sure had the shock of her life when Martin told her about his JSProm surprise. Yay! I also loved As Sweet As Candy, a very different one in the anthology - a Sci-Fi love story! An alien annihilator falling for a guy on Earth, with a mission to wipe out humankind in two days. I must say, this was really an exciting read, and at the end I'm glad that love wins!
What else? Oh yes, that Sakura festival that brought two highschool friends back together and finally admitting their long-time crushes. There's also the Graduation day when the woman meets again her ex boyfriend and having to choose between the past and her present. Weddings, photographers, sharing an umbrella under the rain, dances, and a bully taunting the girl he really liked. Plus that Labor Day weekend when a guy met with his ex-fiance in Kuala Lumpur and seemed to neglect his present girlfriend who bitched about everything. And a "lucky" guy reliving his first kiss ten years after with the girl who broke his heart.
There were also those mysterious stories that involved fictional characters coming to life; a chilling and silly encounter of a gay witch and a "ghost" in the roof; a woman appearing in someone's dream after dying; and Death hovering a girl and preventing her to die. Those were quite awesome reads.
Of course, the anthology won't be complete without the Christmas stories. Making wishes, granting them and wishing those wishes back when things didn't turn out the way you wanted it to be. And lastly my favorite, the Northern Stars, falling for your bestfriend on Christmas Day. Ahh, love heals and love hurts in the most magnanimous way.
I think I covered most of the stories in the anthology. I wish I could say more, but I'm afraid this review would turn into a novella itself, so let me just wrap this up and say - 12 Months of Romance is definitely a great read, definitely gives you 24 reasons to love and 24 authors to admire and root for. Kudos to all the talented Filipino authors who made this anthology possible. I am so proud of all of you!
I met doctors, resident surgeons and interns in Endings and Beginnings with fireworks capping off their night in the hospital, and there's another kind of explosion happening in Marian Tee's stories (OMG, as always, Marian Tee knew how to tickle my fantasies, LOL). Begin Again had me grinning at a 26-year old Juliana finally having someone to date on Valentine's Day after an awkward encounter with her (rather arrogant) ex-boyfriend). One thing I liked, though, Juliana is a Full Metal Alchemist fan!
I also loved Blooms for Rent, a perfect Fathers' Day tribute; there's also a Bottle of Chardonay that's great for relishing past memories of two old friends who had a fallout after the guy was engaged and the bestfriend couldn't hide her feelings for him. A drunken Jesse sure had the shock of her life when Martin told her about his JSProm surprise. Yay! I also loved As Sweet As Candy, a very different one in the anthology - a Sci-Fi love story! An alien annihilator falling for a guy on Earth, with a mission to wipe out humankind in two days. I must say, this was really an exciting read, and at the end I'm glad that love wins!
What else? Oh yes, that Sakura festival that brought two highschool friends back together and finally admitting their long-time crushes. There's also the Graduation day when the woman meets again her ex boyfriend and having to choose between the past and her present. Weddings, photographers, sharing an umbrella under the rain, dances, and a bully taunting the girl he really liked. Plus that Labor Day weekend when a guy met with his ex-fiance in Kuala Lumpur and seemed to neglect his present girlfriend who bitched about everything. And a "lucky" guy reliving his first kiss ten years after with the girl who broke his heart.
There were also those mysterious stories that involved fictional characters coming to life; a chilling and silly encounter of a gay witch and a "ghost" in the roof; a woman appearing in someone's dream after dying; and Death hovering a girl and preventing her to die. Those were quite awesome reads.
Of course, the anthology won't be complete without the Christmas stories. Making wishes, granting them and wishing those wishes back when things didn't turn out the way you wanted it to be. And lastly my favorite, the Northern Stars, falling for your bestfriend on Christmas Day. Ahh, love heals and love hurts in the most magnanimous way.
I think I covered most of the stories in the anthology. I wish I could say more, but I'm afraid this review would turn into a novella itself, so let me just wrap this up and say - 12 Months of Romance is definitely a great read, definitely gives you 24 reasons to love and 24 authors to admire and root for. Kudos to all the talented Filipino authors who made this anthology possible. I am so proud of all of you!
November 21, 2017
12 Months of Romance| 24 Reasons to Love is a holiday anthology filled with some amazing short stories. Each story has a common theme of romance. Many of these stories had me walking away with the warm fuzzy feelings. It was a perfect book to read right around the holiday times. I really enjoyed how the anthology was put together like a calendar year. Each month had two stories that dealt with a holiday during that month. It gave the anthology a whimsical feel.
Fireworks by Marian Tee deals is a January story based on the Chinese New Year. A shy young woman named Devon, though is referred to as D throughout the story, prays to the gods for a bit of luck in the love department. She asks for a sign to point her to the Mr. Right which she knows is cheating. Unfortunately, her “sign” points her right to a man she is trying not to fall for, her childhood friend Jared. Will there be fireworks in Devon’s future, and not just for the New Year celebration?
Plans of the 13th by Marian Tee is a Valentine’s Day story between Devon and Jared. Devon is in a fantasy world of her own as her current boyfriend just so happens to be a childhood friend that she has been crushing on for years. Unfortunately, Jared decides to make plans for Valentine’s Day on the 13th not the 14th. This leave Devon questioning if this relationship means the same for Jared as it does her. She is afraid to ask about the date because she doesn’t want to face the underlying issue that haunts her. The author did a wonderful job portraying the complicated relationship that is Devon and Jared in such a short story.
Begin Again by Erleen Alvares is a Valentine’s Day story about Juliana Arevalo. Juliana is a young girl still trying to piece herself together after a breakup from two years ago. She is still trying to better herself after a horrible relationship, but she’s just not ready to start dating again, especially on Valentine’s Day. Juliana decides to take herself out, even though her sister thinks she should come out with her. Everything seems to be going just fine, until her ex-boyfriend walks into the same restaurant with his new girlfriend. Of course he spots her and decides to confront her. Thankfully a good looking co worker of Juliana, Angelo Hidalgo, is at a table near by and come to save her. After some conversation between Juliana and Angelo, she beings to forget all the hurt from her past relationship. But Juliana is not sure if this one night is enough to overcome all the bad experiences she has had with love.
Blooms for Rent by Johanna Lee is an adorable Father’s Day story. Yara Adlao is trying to start her own flower arrangement rental business. Her day is saved when an attractive business man holds open the elevator for her and offers to help carry some of her vases. She comes to find out this handsome man is the husband to one of her biggest clients. Evan Villecija, the hottie from the elevator, was perfect in Yara’s eyes but so were his wife and daughter. Unfortunately Evan loses his wife to cancer and Yara helps by watching his daughter from time to time. Yara falls in love with Evan’s daughter and wants to explore her flame for Evan. But the thought of his beautiful and caring wife keeps Yara from taking their relationship beyond professional. This story was beautiful and I could feel all the emotions running through it. It deals with a delicate situation, losing a loved one, and how the widower must deal with this grief. Some are not as lucky as Evan to have had the partner he had.
The Umbrella by Ren Guevarra takes place during the rainy season in July. Kit Solano is a social worker that helps take care of children and abused young women. Coming from an abusive family setting, Kit is wonderful at what she does and has followed her dream. Her lifelong friend Jan Suria is also trying to follow his dreams, to Singapore. Both of them volunteer at the same shelter and have worked side by side for years. Neither one has admitted to feelings for each other because they do not want to ruin their friendship that they cherish so much. Unfortunately Jan is on his way to Singapore for school and as much as Kit wants him to stay, she knows he must go after his dreams. Can their relationship weather the storm?
A Bottle of Chardonnay and Memories by Cindy Dela Cruz takes place around Book Lover’s Day. Jessie is a model who finds herself back in Santa Barbara surprising her best friend Martin with a visit. Martin is always there for her and has been since they were young. As much as Jessie’s visit is a surprise, Martin offers for her to stay at his apartment. It has been months since Martin as seen Jessie. In fact, it was the night of his engagement party when Martin last saw her. That was the night that Jessie had a drunken incident that, of course, Martin was there to save her from. At the apartment, Jessie and Martin share a bottle of Chardonnay while eating some homemade spicy curry. They begin to take a walk down memory lane and tell each other their deepest secrets. One thing leads to another and they must decide if they are ready to cross a line, because once they do there is no going back.
Fireworks by Marian Tee deals is a January story based on the Chinese New Year. A shy young woman named Devon, though is referred to as D throughout the story, prays to the gods for a bit of luck in the love department. She asks for a sign to point her to the Mr. Right which she knows is cheating. Unfortunately, her “sign” points her right to a man she is trying not to fall for, her childhood friend Jared. Will there be fireworks in Devon’s future, and not just for the New Year celebration?
Plans of the 13th by Marian Tee is a Valentine’s Day story between Devon and Jared. Devon is in a fantasy world of her own as her current boyfriend just so happens to be a childhood friend that she has been crushing on for years. Unfortunately, Jared decides to make plans for Valentine’s Day on the 13th not the 14th. This leave Devon questioning if this relationship means the same for Jared as it does her. She is afraid to ask about the date because she doesn’t want to face the underlying issue that haunts her. The author did a wonderful job portraying the complicated relationship that is Devon and Jared in such a short story.
Begin Again by Erleen Alvares is a Valentine’s Day story about Juliana Arevalo. Juliana is a young girl still trying to piece herself together after a breakup from two years ago. She is still trying to better herself after a horrible relationship, but she’s just not ready to start dating again, especially on Valentine’s Day. Juliana decides to take herself out, even though her sister thinks she should come out with her. Everything seems to be going just fine, until her ex-boyfriend walks into the same restaurant with his new girlfriend. Of course he spots her and decides to confront her. Thankfully a good looking co worker of Juliana, Angelo Hidalgo, is at a table near by and come to save her. After some conversation between Juliana and Angelo, she beings to forget all the hurt from her past relationship. But Juliana is not sure if this one night is enough to overcome all the bad experiences she has had with love.
Blooms for Rent by Johanna Lee is an adorable Father’s Day story. Yara Adlao is trying to start her own flower arrangement rental business. Her day is saved when an attractive business man holds open the elevator for her and offers to help carry some of her vases. She comes to find out this handsome man is the husband to one of her biggest clients. Evan Villecija, the hottie from the elevator, was perfect in Yara’s eyes but so were his wife and daughter. Unfortunately Evan loses his wife to cancer and Yara helps by watching his daughter from time to time. Yara falls in love with Evan’s daughter and wants to explore her flame for Evan. But the thought of his beautiful and caring wife keeps Yara from taking their relationship beyond professional. This story was beautiful and I could feel all the emotions running through it. It deals with a delicate situation, losing a loved one, and how the widower must deal with this grief. Some are not as lucky as Evan to have had the partner he had.
The Umbrella by Ren Guevarra takes place during the rainy season in July. Kit Solano is a social worker that helps take care of children and abused young women. Coming from an abusive family setting, Kit is wonderful at what she does and has followed her dream. Her lifelong friend Jan Suria is also trying to follow his dreams, to Singapore. Both of them volunteer at the same shelter and have worked side by side for years. Neither one has admitted to feelings for each other because they do not want to ruin their friendship that they cherish so much. Unfortunately Jan is on his way to Singapore for school and as much as Kit wants him to stay, she knows he must go after his dreams. Can their relationship weather the storm?
A Bottle of Chardonnay and Memories by Cindy Dela Cruz takes place around Book Lover’s Day. Jessie is a model who finds herself back in Santa Barbara surprising her best friend Martin with a visit. Martin is always there for her and has been since they were young. As much as Jessie’s visit is a surprise, Martin offers for her to stay at his apartment. It has been months since Martin as seen Jessie. In fact, it was the night of his engagement party when Martin last saw her. That was the night that Jessie had a drunken incident that, of course, Martin was there to save her from. At the apartment, Jessie and Martin share a bottle of Chardonnay while eating some homemade spicy curry. They begin to take a walk down memory lane and tell each other their deepest secrets. One thing leads to another and they must decide if they are ready to cross a line, because once they do there is no going back.
November 21, 2017
I'm typically not a fan of anthologies, I tend to speed read through some stories just to get to the next when I'm not fully interested, and what's the odds of loving every story in the Anthology? I also tend not to read anthologies because so many times I just want more, it's one thing to want more of a story that will possibly continue in the future but with Anthologies there is no chance you can follow these characters any further. I did however enjoy 12 months of romance: 24 reasons to love : a holiday anthology. I think there was a great variety of stories and I didn't speed through one, although I did read it all in one sitting. I enjoyed the holidays that were celebrated, not your typical Christmas valentine's day but much more.
I really enjoyed Until the last Petal Falls (Sakura Season) by kit Salazar. This short was really well written and the characters were well written. I loved that Salazar transitioned from high school to a reunion without making it seem like the reader missed a lot. I also felt like the story was well wrapped up.
Another short I enjoyed in the Anthology was The Second One by Eris Peñaluna. I honestly wasn't expecting a well written well resolved love triangle. There is something about how the different types of love are captured within so few pages. I believe this type of live triangle is one of the most common in everyday life so it was very relatable. I have seen 500+ page books not capture this so well.
Meet me in the Aisle (weddings) by Farrah. F. Polestico was another one that had a beautifully written ending.
I think my favorite most resolved ending was with the short Giovanni Antonio (All Saints Day) by Aileen Santos. I also lived that there were a fictional book excerpts within the short and it added to the story in such a unique way.
I also loved the diversity A feast at Midnight(Mabon, the Wiccan harvest festival) by Barbie Babieto brought to this anthology. It was a great story that brought major differences than the others.
I give 12 months of Romance: 24 reasons to love a holiday anthology 5/5 stars. Most of the authors were new to me but they are all very talented in writing full well resolved short stories.
I really enjoyed Until the last Petal Falls (Sakura Season) by kit Salazar. This short was really well written and the characters were well written. I loved that Salazar transitioned from high school to a reunion without making it seem like the reader missed a lot. I also felt like the story was well wrapped up.
Another short I enjoyed in the Anthology was The Second One by Eris Peñaluna. I honestly wasn't expecting a well written well resolved love triangle. There is something about how the different types of love are captured within so few pages. I believe this type of live triangle is one of the most common in everyday life so it was very relatable. I have seen 500+ page books not capture this so well.
Meet me in the Aisle (weddings) by Farrah. F. Polestico was another one that had a beautifully written ending.
I think my favorite most resolved ending was with the short Giovanni Antonio (All Saints Day) by Aileen Santos. I also lived that there were a fictional book excerpts within the short and it added to the story in such a unique way.
I also loved the diversity A feast at Midnight(Mabon, the Wiccan harvest festival) by Barbie Babieto brought to this anthology. It was a great story that brought major differences than the others.
I give 12 months of Romance: 24 reasons to love a holiday anthology 5/5 stars. Most of the authors were new to me but they are all very talented in writing full well resolved short stories.
November 21, 2017
12 Months of Romance/24 Reasons to Love: A Holiday Anthology
By Erleen Alvarez • Kate Anolin • Ysa Arcangel • Ella Banta • Barbie Barbieto • Rachelle Belaro • Cindy dela Cruz • Catherine Dellosa • Elizabeth Galit • Claridge Gamboa • Ren Guevara • Khiara Laurea • Johanna Lee • Eris Peñaluna • Farrah Polestico • Michael Recto • Kat Sales • Miel Salva • Aileen Santos • Maria Criselda R. Santos • Yeyet Soriano • Marian Tee • Celestine Trinidad
4 Stars
12 Months of Romance/24 Reasons to Love by Erleen Alvarez, Kaate Anolin, Ysa Arcangel, et al; is a holiday anthology of romance stories for every month of the year, based around holidays. The short stories are all different and range from sci-fi, friends that become lovers to gay romance. The stories, although short, will give you a quick glimpse into how the characters meet and fall in love. Some of the short stories were so intriguing that I wish the story was longer so I can find out how it ended between the couple. All the authors in this anthology are new to me and I enjoyed the different spin of each of the stories. Will you find your next book boyfriend in one of the stories in this anthology? There are several to pick, from alpha to doctors.
By Erleen Alvarez • Kate Anolin • Ysa Arcangel • Ella Banta • Barbie Barbieto • Rachelle Belaro • Cindy dela Cruz • Catherine Dellosa • Elizabeth Galit • Claridge Gamboa • Ren Guevara • Khiara Laurea • Johanna Lee • Eris Peñaluna • Farrah Polestico • Michael Recto • Kat Sales • Miel Salva • Aileen Santos • Maria Criselda R. Santos • Yeyet Soriano • Marian Tee • Celestine Trinidad
4 Stars
12 Months of Romance/24 Reasons to Love by Erleen Alvarez, Kaate Anolin, Ysa Arcangel, et al; is a holiday anthology of romance stories for every month of the year, based around holidays. The short stories are all different and range from sci-fi, friends that become lovers to gay romance. The stories, although short, will give you a quick glimpse into how the characters meet and fall in love. Some of the short stories were so intriguing that I wish the story was longer so I can find out how it ended between the couple. All the authors in this anthology are new to me and I enjoyed the different spin of each of the stories. Will you find your next book boyfriend in one of the stories in this anthology? There are several to pick, from alpha to doctors.
November 21, 2017
12 Months of Romance/24 Reasons to Love: A Holiday Anthology by 23 great authors. This book is twelve months of sweet, hot romance stories that are centered around the holidays. There is something for everyone in this book, I know I have my favorite stories. These are new authors for me other then one, I know I will be looking for more from them. They each have their own writing style and their characters are creative and lovable. I loved that there stories were arranged by months and stories to match. Their stories range from science fiction to friends to lovers to brief encounters. All of them will take you on a journey that you won't soon forget and you will find a new book boyfriend in these stories. The men in these stories are alpha males, doctors, fathers and more. I highly recommend this story as I know you will find a new author to fall in love with right along with their characters.
December 31, 2017
Pleased that the book lives up to its title: there are 24 romances to love in this anthology indeed! Felt like I lived several lives going through the stories, and happy that I found new authors to follow and support. Enjoyed how different each one is from one another, and how creative the approaches are to familiar tropes. While I did think some of the stories needed to be shorter and more straight-to-the-point for maximum, long-lasting impact (and that I thought there would have been more Filipino holidays included), I still finished the book with a list of favorites I know I'll be going back to when the ~time (month) comes. (Recommended: Kit Salazar's "Until the Last Petal Falls" and Kate Anolin's Skinny Love, especially if you like friends-to-lovers.) Any romance reader who will pick this up will find a story that is exactly for them. Congratulations to the authors!
November 20, 2017
What a bit of a fun reading this book turned out to be. I have been on a bit of kick when it comes to anthologies lately, especially ones where I don’t really know any of the authors as you can usually find some great writers in them. Coming in at only 34 pages on my kindle, it was definitely something that can be read in one sitting. I would have liked to see some of these stories be a bit more developed, or at least be novella type lengths so that it didn’t feel like such a short read. I really enjoyed each of the different stories but the office romance had to be my favorite. Some of the authors in this book were total unknowns to me, and yet I feel like I found some that would be good to read again. If you are looking for a quick read, with allot of variety than this is the anthology for you.
December 7, 2017
What a fascinating anthology. Each month, each holiday has its own story. Each story was awesomely written to suite it's month. There's doctor's, father's, and all different types of men in these stories. I could easily swoon over a few. I liked each story, some I liked better than others but you know they can't all be my favorite.
December 6, 2017
This anthology covers just about every holiday you can think of within the 24 short stories included. They are put together in order of month and what holiday they each represent. I loved that even though this was a larger anthology, it didn’t feel like it. The stories are short and sweet. They give you just enough of a taste of that holiday that makes you feel festive and like celebrating year-round. Every day is a good reason to love, not just the holiday’s and I felt like that was a theme well represented throughout all of the novels. There were several authors that I have read before, and some new ones that I have to go check out more work from. That is the ultimate goal for me when I read an anthology; to hopefully find some new authors I wouldn’t necessarily have found or heard about before. You will laugh and cry with each character as they find love in the season they represent. I chose five of my favorite shorts included in here to review a bit more in depth so you can get a feel for what kind of stories these are.
Endings and Beginnings by; Celestine Trinidad
This particular book is focused on the month of January and New Year’s Eve, the US holiday.
Trina Sy, or Doctura Trina is on duty New Year’s Eve at the hospital she works in. She is the head of residents for the program and we find Trina in the middle of reprimanding a group of the students for falsifying charts. She has gained the nickname Dragon Princess, for her short temper and the desire to make sure the residents are following all the rules, no matter how strict she is. One of her newest group leaders for the team of residents she is currently in charge of has her second guessing if she should follow all the rules herself. Will the New Year be a start of something fun and new for the two doctors or will she stick to the strictness she sets as a standard herself? I really enjoyed this one. I recommend it to the Grey’s Anatomy fans, as this seems to be very similar in the way things are set up in the story. I look forward to reading more by Celestine Trinidad in the future as this was the first time I have read anything of hers.
Plans on The 13th by; Marian Tee
This one is centered around the month of February and Valentines day. I though this one was a cute story because it embodies the reason to celebrate love every day of the year not just on days set aside on the calendar that has been mass marketed.
“D” and Jared are a new couple that have a bit of an interesting new relationship. D isn’t as experienced in the love department as Jared and so he is taking the lead in showing her what it means to be spoiled and loved year-round, on the 13th of February instead of the actual day of Valentines day. Really is such a sweet meaning woven into this story. Marian Tee is another new author to me that I look forward to checking out other works of in the future.
“Jesus. This side of Jared is so seriously bad for my feet, I’ll need to start buying shoe size 5 instead of 5.5. I don’t think my toes will ever uncurl at this rate.”
The Umbrella by; Ren Guevara
This one is centered around the month of July and the rainy seasons we often see this time of year.
“I’ve not patience to guess what the weather will be, she said once, adding, and red umbrellas are good weapons as well.” Katheryn Solano, or Kit, is known for carrying around her big red umbrella and being a bit of a quirky character. She is eccentric and fun, and loves her job.
She is saddened with news that her crush, Janos Suria, or Jan, is going to be leaving her to pursue his master’s degree in Singapore. Will she be able to get the courage to finally let him know how she truly feels about him? Will it be too little to late? This was a cute and sweet short, that I really enjoyed for the reality that was based on. IT wasn’t a far fetched ideal type of ending and I loved that. I look forward to reading more work by Ren Guevara.
A Feast at Midnight by; Barbie Barbieto:
I have read other shorts by Barbie in the past in other works of collaborations and anthologies. I however have not read any of her full works and I look forward to doing so, as she seems to always stick out with her writing style whenever I read anything of hers in an Anthology like such.
This one is centered around the holiday known as Mabon or the Wiccan Harvest Festival. And takes lace in the month of September.
“Yep, I lived in a ghost town. Which was almost poetic, considering who and what I was.” Ma’am Yumi is a kitchen witch that likes to keep to herself in her small and desolate city that is often referred to as a ghost town for its lack of residents that stick around and the way the town shuts down at dusk.
She is preparing for the Wiccan Harvest Festival when she starts to feel as if something or someone is off with her surroundings. After narrowing it down to the home just behind her that is giving her the creeps we see a mystery start to unfold in her life. Will her encounter with the new neighbor, and sexy doctor, lead to love in the air around her Mabon celebration?
A Touch of Christmas by; Ysa Arcanagel
I have read a few of Ysa Arcanagel’s shorts in an anthology as well as separate works by herself before and I just love the way she can bring to life the words she writes. It only felt right to end the review with a selection based in December and around Christmas time. I loved this one and will continue to look for more by Ysa Arcanagel to discover of hers.
Monique, or Mona, loves all things Christmas usually. This year seems to be a hard one for her to get in the spirit though. After some tragic family changes one would expect that however. This was a cute story of finding reasons to celebrate despite the difficulties we face in our day to day lives. It’s a small reminder that no matter what is going on we can stop and enjoy the miracles that holidays seem to bring around and celebrate the magic of them regardless of what is going on. This was a reoccurring theme in the book and I really loved how this one seemed to be a culmination of that.
Will Mona be able to put the recent events to bed long enough to enjoy her favorite time of year, before it is to late, and she misses out on new opportunities for love? You will have to read and find out!
I loved the dedication in this book and think I will use the quote to close out my review, because it sums this lovely anthology that will warm your heart regardless of the season or time of year, so perfectly.
“For those who always choose to love, not just every month, every season or every year, but forever.”
Endings and Beginnings by; Celestine Trinidad
This particular book is focused on the month of January and New Year’s Eve, the US holiday.
Trina Sy, or Doctura Trina is on duty New Year’s Eve at the hospital she works in. She is the head of residents for the program and we find Trina in the middle of reprimanding a group of the students for falsifying charts. She has gained the nickname Dragon Princess, for her short temper and the desire to make sure the residents are following all the rules, no matter how strict she is. One of her newest group leaders for the team of residents she is currently in charge of has her second guessing if she should follow all the rules herself. Will the New Year be a start of something fun and new for the two doctors or will she stick to the strictness she sets as a standard herself? I really enjoyed this one. I recommend it to the Grey’s Anatomy fans, as this seems to be very similar in the way things are set up in the story. I look forward to reading more by Celestine Trinidad in the future as this was the first time I have read anything of hers.
Plans on The 13th by; Marian Tee
This one is centered around the month of February and Valentines day. I though this one was a cute story because it embodies the reason to celebrate love every day of the year not just on days set aside on the calendar that has been mass marketed.
“D” and Jared are a new couple that have a bit of an interesting new relationship. D isn’t as experienced in the love department as Jared and so he is taking the lead in showing her what it means to be spoiled and loved year-round, on the 13th of February instead of the actual day of Valentines day. Really is such a sweet meaning woven into this story. Marian Tee is another new author to me that I look forward to checking out other works of in the future.
“Jesus. This side of Jared is so seriously bad for my feet, I’ll need to start buying shoe size 5 instead of 5.5. I don’t think my toes will ever uncurl at this rate.”
The Umbrella by; Ren Guevara
This one is centered around the month of July and the rainy seasons we often see this time of year.
“I’ve not patience to guess what the weather will be, she said once, adding, and red umbrellas are good weapons as well.” Katheryn Solano, or Kit, is known for carrying around her big red umbrella and being a bit of a quirky character. She is eccentric and fun, and loves her job.
She is saddened with news that her crush, Janos Suria, or Jan, is going to be leaving her to pursue his master’s degree in Singapore. Will she be able to get the courage to finally let him know how she truly feels about him? Will it be too little to late? This was a cute and sweet short, that I really enjoyed for the reality that was based on. IT wasn’t a far fetched ideal type of ending and I loved that. I look forward to reading more work by Ren Guevara.
A Feast at Midnight by; Barbie Barbieto:
I have read other shorts by Barbie in the past in other works of collaborations and anthologies. I however have not read any of her full works and I look forward to doing so, as she seems to always stick out with her writing style whenever I read anything of hers in an Anthology like such.
This one is centered around the holiday known as Mabon or the Wiccan Harvest Festival. And takes lace in the month of September.
“Yep, I lived in a ghost town. Which was almost poetic, considering who and what I was.” Ma’am Yumi is a kitchen witch that likes to keep to herself in her small and desolate city that is often referred to as a ghost town for its lack of residents that stick around and the way the town shuts down at dusk.
She is preparing for the Wiccan Harvest Festival when she starts to feel as if something or someone is off with her surroundings. After narrowing it down to the home just behind her that is giving her the creeps we see a mystery start to unfold in her life. Will her encounter with the new neighbor, and sexy doctor, lead to love in the air around her Mabon celebration?
A Touch of Christmas by; Ysa Arcanagel
I have read a few of Ysa Arcanagel’s shorts in an anthology as well as separate works by herself before and I just love the way she can bring to life the words she writes. It only felt right to end the review with a selection based in December and around Christmas time. I loved this one and will continue to look for more by Ysa Arcanagel to discover of hers.
Monique, or Mona, loves all things Christmas usually. This year seems to be a hard one for her to get in the spirit though. After some tragic family changes one would expect that however. This was a cute story of finding reasons to celebrate despite the difficulties we face in our day to day lives. It’s a small reminder that no matter what is going on we can stop and enjoy the miracles that holidays seem to bring around and celebrate the magic of them regardless of what is going on. This was a reoccurring theme in the book and I really loved how this one seemed to be a culmination of that.
Will Mona be able to put the recent events to bed long enough to enjoy her favorite time of year, before it is to late, and she misses out on new opportunities for love? You will have to read and find out!
I loved the dedication in this book and think I will use the quote to close out my review, because it sums this lovely anthology that will warm your heart regardless of the season or time of year, so perfectly.
“For those who always choose to love, not just every month, every season or every year, but forever.”
December 8, 2017
Twelve Months of Romance is a real gem of an anthology. I really enjoyed it. The stories are short, only about twenty to thirty minutes to read each, so they don’t take a lot of time. Just about the right amount of time to get ready to fall asleep. Not to say that these stories are by any means boring. Oh no, they are amazingly full and very fun little reads.
Endings and Beginnings by Celestine Trinidad is a perfect example of one of these fun little vignettes. It is a really cute story. I really enjoyed Endings and Beginnings. It was well thought out and well written. A very fast read.
Fireworks by Marian Tee was another well written short story. Ms Tee gave her descriptions an amazing amount of vibrancy. It was well thought our and well written.
Until the Last Petal Falls by Kit Salazar is a really cute, refreshing love story. I really liked this one. It made me feel all warm and gooey inside. A really sweet tale of discovery.
Lost and Found by Maria Criselda R. Santos is a very inventive story. I really liked the medium used to convey the sentiment here. A very nice short story.
All in all, this Anthology is really quite good. I enjoyed most of the stories. It was filled with amazing writers, writing amazing stories. I had a small problem with the location of these short stories, since they were located in Manila and, I don't know a lot about Manila. Because of this, it was a bit difficult for me to see where things were going. But, it was intriguing to have a small look into a different culture. Once I got familiar with the geography, these short stories fell right into place. They are really quite amazing.
I really like the length of these short stories. They are just right for almost anything from sitting in a waiting room to reading yourself to sleep, (Which is something I love to do.) These short stories are sure to leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling in your heart. They are definitely worth reading.
Endings and Beginnings by Celestine Trinidad is a perfect example of one of these fun little vignettes. It is a really cute story. I really enjoyed Endings and Beginnings. It was well thought out and well written. A very fast read.
Fireworks by Marian Tee was another well written short story. Ms Tee gave her descriptions an amazing amount of vibrancy. It was well thought our and well written.
Until the Last Petal Falls by Kit Salazar is a really cute, refreshing love story. I really liked this one. It made me feel all warm and gooey inside. A really sweet tale of discovery.
Lost and Found by Maria Criselda R. Santos is a very inventive story. I really liked the medium used to convey the sentiment here. A very nice short story.
All in all, this Anthology is really quite good. I enjoyed most of the stories. It was filled with amazing writers, writing amazing stories. I had a small problem with the location of these short stories, since they were located in Manila and, I don't know a lot about Manila. Because of this, it was a bit difficult for me to see where things were going. But, it was intriguing to have a small look into a different culture. Once I got familiar with the geography, these short stories fell right into place. They are really quite amazing.
I really like the length of these short stories. They are just right for almost anything from sitting in a waiting room to reading yourself to sleep, (Which is something I love to do.) These short stories are sure to leave you with a warm fuzzy feeling in your heart. They are definitely worth reading.
November 25, 2017
12 Months of Romance 24 reasons to Love by various authors
5 Stars!!!!
As a lover or romance books this book more than ticked all the boxes for me. There were so many different styles and formats and so many different scenarios that I just couldnt wait to see what the next story would be. This is one of the best anthologies I have read so far!! Every short story was more than worth 5 Stars on its own!!!
One of my favorite short stories in this book was When the Last Petal Falls (Sakura Season) by Kit Salazar. This short story was a perfect example of young love that was too scared to be confessed. It shows that it is never too late to let someone know how you feel about them. I just loved the chemistry between Michael and Sara. This was such as sweet story and was very well written.
Another one of my favorites is Plans on the 13th(Valentines day) by Marian Tee. This shows that one cannot just underestimate childhood friends. It also shows that we shouldnt undervalue ourselves cause you never know what you mean to someone else. I just love how Devon and Jared have such a great sort of backstory in this short story and how everything develops.
I really also loved Begin Again (Valentines Day) by Erleen Alvares. This short story really tugged at my heartstring as it was so well played out. I like how Juliana had to overcome her demons so to speak and she winds up with a better prize Angelo. It would be nice to see a follow up story about these two as the chemistry is just really good.
I just could go on and on and on about all the short stories in this book. I have enjoyed it so emencely. I am sure if you love romance you will find this a must read. It will certainly have a spot in my library and be read over and over.
5 Stars!!!!
As a lover or romance books this book more than ticked all the boxes for me. There were so many different styles and formats and so many different scenarios that I just couldnt wait to see what the next story would be. This is one of the best anthologies I have read so far!! Every short story was more than worth 5 Stars on its own!!!
One of my favorite short stories in this book was When the Last Petal Falls (Sakura Season) by Kit Salazar. This short story was a perfect example of young love that was too scared to be confessed. It shows that it is never too late to let someone know how you feel about them. I just loved the chemistry between Michael and Sara. This was such as sweet story and was very well written.
Another one of my favorites is Plans on the 13th(Valentines day) by Marian Tee. This shows that one cannot just underestimate childhood friends. It also shows that we shouldnt undervalue ourselves cause you never know what you mean to someone else. I just love how Devon and Jared have such a great sort of backstory in this short story and how everything develops.
I really also loved Begin Again (Valentines Day) by Erleen Alvares. This short story really tugged at my heartstring as it was so well played out. I like how Juliana had to overcome her demons so to speak and she winds up with a better prize Angelo. It would be nice to see a follow up story about these two as the chemistry is just really good.
I just could go on and on and on about all the short stories in this book. I have enjoyed it so emencely. I am sure if you love romance you will find this a must read. It will certainly have a spot in my library and be read over and over.
December 8, 2017
I fell into 12 Months of Romance/ 24 Reasons to Love: A Holiday Anthology like you would normally fall into a well-loved routine.
This is the first time that I’ve experienced most of these authors, and I have to say that I’ve become a fan with the slight taste that I had.
It was refreshing to have such a book. Most anthologies don’t succeed – in my opinion because sometimes I don’t feel that the authors mesh. And that’s MY opinion, from experience. I’ve had to skip a few stories in the past because they just weren’t the right feel or taste for me.
But with this book (anthology), I actually liked it. I felt every story deeply. In one way or another. Whether it was through the characters that are being portrayed, or the storyline that is being told by each individual author.
I loved the fact that I was able to experience different stories, with different holidays. And let’s not forget about the romance that you experience in every single one of the books. The chemistry that you feel as a reader, and the relationships that are developed. I loved experiencing new things and reading new styles. And that is exactly what I got with this.
It’s definitely a keeper for me, with most of those authors - seeing as I’ll more than likely be stalking some of them. Sometimes, it’s nice to be able to get lost multiple times within ONE book just because you are able to. This book was a 5 Star Review – I couldn’t for the life of me go lower, because even though there were some books that I didn’t absolutely love; the majority of them won.
This is the first time that I’ve experienced most of these authors, and I have to say that I’ve become a fan with the slight taste that I had.
It was refreshing to have such a book. Most anthologies don’t succeed – in my opinion because sometimes I don’t feel that the authors mesh. And that’s MY opinion, from experience. I’ve had to skip a few stories in the past because they just weren’t the right feel or taste for me.
But with this book (anthology), I actually liked it. I felt every story deeply. In one way or another. Whether it was through the characters that are being portrayed, or the storyline that is being told by each individual author.
I loved the fact that I was able to experience different stories, with different holidays. And let’s not forget about the romance that you experience in every single one of the books. The chemistry that you feel as a reader, and the relationships that are developed. I loved experiencing new things and reading new styles. And that is exactly what I got with this.
It’s definitely a keeper for me, with most of those authors - seeing as I’ll more than likely be stalking some of them. Sometimes, it’s nice to be able to get lost multiple times within ONE book just because you are able to. This book was a 5 Star Review – I couldn’t for the life of me go lower, because even though there were some books that I didn’t absolutely love; the majority of them won.
December 6, 2017
12 Months of Romance: 24 Reasons to Love is a fantastic anthology and so worth the read. I feel like there is something in here for everyone’s tastes. I love that there are so many different romance genres in this book, it is like I can take a dip in each category and discover which ones I like the best. The book includes romances between many different types of people and also many levels of romance. Some of the books are hot and heavy and some are sweet and innocent.
One of my favorite stories is As Sweet As Candy by Ella Banta. This one was M/M and I loved the idea that Cal is from another planet or world and, comes to present day earth to destroy it. When he falls in love with Jay and decides against destroying earth, Jay feels like he will never see Cal again. I really would love to see this book expanded on, I could see great things happening between Jay and Cal. My second favorite is Blooms For Rent by Johanna Lee. This is another one of those books where I wish it was a full blown novel because I can see this author doing so many great things with these characters. At first the love that comes about between the characters seems forbidden, and then the reasons are all explained and my heart breaks in half, but is also full at the same time.
Overall I would give this anthology 5 stars! I would recommend it to any romance lover as it has so much diversity in the writing styles, by 23 awesome authors!
One of my favorite stories is As Sweet As Candy by Ella Banta. This one was M/M and I loved the idea that Cal is from another planet or world and, comes to present day earth to destroy it. When he falls in love with Jay and decides against destroying earth, Jay feels like he will never see Cal again. I really would love to see this book expanded on, I could see great things happening between Jay and Cal. My second favorite is Blooms For Rent by Johanna Lee. This is another one of those books where I wish it was a full blown novel because I can see this author doing so many great things with these characters. At first the love that comes about between the characters seems forbidden, and then the reasons are all explained and my heart breaks in half, but is also full at the same time.
Overall I would give this anthology 5 stars! I would recommend it to any romance lover as it has so much diversity in the writing styles, by 23 awesome authors!
December 5, 2017
What can I say about the 12 Months of Romance anthology but amazing! I had never read an anthology before but found this extremely refreshing. It was nice how it was all broken up to shorter stories that you could pick up quickly while busy and still read a few stories. This was the first time me reading any stories by these authors but will be looking out for more! There is more than one story in there for everyone. It was nice to read so many different genres and styles but all linking together focusing about love and romance. There were many genres that I would not of searched for before but has made me want to read more.
You meet so many different types of people from so many different walks of life including out of this world romances! Reading about so many different relationships and how they all work in their own ways was magical. Each author has really put their own twist to their individual stories and brought them all to life making you connect to all of the characters on their journeys.
All of the stories are based around holidays throughout the year. It was interesting reading around holidays that you wouldn't normally associate with and getting caught up in complete fantasy and science fiction.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. There are definitely must read stories in this book!
You meet so many different types of people from so many different walks of life including out of this world romances! Reading about so many different relationships and how they all work in their own ways was magical. Each author has really put their own twist to their individual stories and brought them all to life making you connect to all of the characters on their journeys.
All of the stories are based around holidays throughout the year. It was interesting reading around holidays that you wouldn't normally associate with and getting caught up in complete fantasy and science fiction.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. There are definitely must read stories in this book!
December 5, 2017
12 Months of Romance: 24 reasons to love anthology
by Ysa Arcangel, Marian Tee, Miel Salva, Catherine Dellosa, Ella Banta, Elizabeth Galit, Yeyet Soriano, Johanna Lee , Kate Anolin, Barbie Barbieto, Cindy Dela Cruz, Clara Gamboa, Ren Guevara, Rachelle Belaro, Erleen Alvarez, Khiara Laurea, Eris Peñaluna, Farrah Polestico, Michael Recto, Kit Salazar, Aileen Santos, Maria Criselda R. Santos, Celestine Trinidad
4 stars
This was such a lovely collection of stories! There is definitely something for everyone in here! I have read books by some of the authors before but it was lovely to find new authors to read as well.
Whilst not every story was to my taste and I did skip over the content of a couple BUT every single one was really well written and had a great amount of story packed into them. I thought the character development was good and I always like it when I find that in a short story as sometimes it can be hard to connect with characters but I didn’t find that with these stories.
I really enjoyed Fireworks and that the characters were also in the next story too! It was a spicy little read and I always enjoy friends to lover’s stories – so this one was perfect for me!!
A really enjoyable collection of stories that I would highly recommend to any romance lover out there! There is definitely a story for everyone in this set!
by Ysa Arcangel, Marian Tee, Miel Salva, Catherine Dellosa, Ella Banta, Elizabeth Galit, Yeyet Soriano, Johanna Lee , Kate Anolin, Barbie Barbieto, Cindy Dela Cruz, Clara Gamboa, Ren Guevara, Rachelle Belaro, Erleen Alvarez, Khiara Laurea, Eris Peñaluna, Farrah Polestico, Michael Recto, Kit Salazar, Aileen Santos, Maria Criselda R. Santos, Celestine Trinidad
4 stars
This was such a lovely collection of stories! There is definitely something for everyone in here! I have read books by some of the authors before but it was lovely to find new authors to read as well.
Whilst not every story was to my taste and I did skip over the content of a couple BUT every single one was really well written and had a great amount of story packed into them. I thought the character development was good and I always like it when I find that in a short story as sometimes it can be hard to connect with characters but I didn’t find that with these stories.
I really enjoyed Fireworks and that the characters were also in the next story too! It was a spicy little read and I always enjoy friends to lover’s stories – so this one was perfect for me!!
A really enjoyable collection of stories that I would highly recommend to any romance lover out there! There is definitely a story for everyone in this set!
December 5, 2017
12 Months of Romance | 24 Reasons to Love: A Holiday Anthology by Erleen Alvarez, Kate Anolin, Ysa Arcangel, Ella Banta, Barbie Barbieto, Rachelle Belaro, Cindy dela Cruz, Catherine Dellosa, Elizabeth Galit, Claridge Gamboa, Ren Guevara, Khiara Laurea, Johanna Lee, Eris Peñaluna ,Farrah Polestico, Michael Recto, Kat Sales, Miel Salva, Aileen Santos, Maria Criselda R. Santos, Yeyet Soriano ,Marian Tee, Celestine Trinidad is a collection of 24 holiday inspired short stories. There is definitely something in this collection for everyone. From traditional romances to gay science fiction, office romances to love triangles, friends to lovers and just about everything in between. Each story gives you an introduction to unique characters each author has a different writing style that gives even similar story’s definite differences. All of the main characters are relatable and give you a lot of different new characters that you will simply fall in love with. The plots were well written and while short they were excellently executed so I was never left feeling like they were rushed. There were a few that I could see being turned into longer stories but none of them left me feeling like the story was lacking an ending. All in all I’m going to give this anthology a 4 star rating and will definitely look for more books by some of the authors I was introduced through it.
December 7, 2017
12 Month of Romance – 24 Reasons to Love – an Anthology
I loved the fact that this anthology isn’t just about the “traditional” holidays. It also included special holidays like “National Lit Month” and “Nutrition Month”. This anthology also prompted me to Google some celebrations was not aware of such as Buwan Ng Wika and Belenissimo. Romance AND Education all in one great read. The only author I have previously read is Ysa Arcangel. I’ve always enjoyed her stories and figured I couldn’t go wrong if she contributed to and compiled this anthology. I really enjoyed every one of these stories and will be searching out the authors for their novels.
Here are a few of my favorite short stories:
A Touch of Christmas by Ysa Arcangel – A quick sweet story about wishes and “what makes you truly happy”.
Life’s Tricks and Treats by Yeyet Soriano is a story about how you CAN go home again. This story made me long for my childhood friend. Thank goodness for Facebook and the ability to connect online.
A Feast at Midnight by Barbie Barbieto shows us that sometimes that things are not all as they seem.
The Second One by Eris Penaluna is the short story about how we grow and change and how love grows and changes in life.
Honestly, I could write a bit about each one but I think it’s more fun if you explore them on your own.
I loved the fact that this anthology isn’t just about the “traditional” holidays. It also included special holidays like “National Lit Month” and “Nutrition Month”. This anthology also prompted me to Google some celebrations was not aware of such as Buwan Ng Wika and Belenissimo. Romance AND Education all in one great read. The only author I have previously read is Ysa Arcangel. I’ve always enjoyed her stories and figured I couldn’t go wrong if she contributed to and compiled this anthology. I really enjoyed every one of these stories and will be searching out the authors for their novels.
Here are a few of my favorite short stories:
A Touch of Christmas by Ysa Arcangel – A quick sweet story about wishes and “what makes you truly happy”.
Life’s Tricks and Treats by Yeyet Soriano is a story about how you CAN go home again. This story made me long for my childhood friend. Thank goodness for Facebook and the ability to connect online.
A Feast at Midnight by Barbie Barbieto shows us that sometimes that things are not all as they seem.
The Second One by Eris Penaluna is the short story about how we grow and change and how love grows and changes in life.
Honestly, I could write a bit about each one but I think it’s more fun if you explore them on your own.
December 6, 2017
4 Stars
12 Months of Romance: 24 Reasons to Love is a fantastic Anthology of Holiday Romances. There are 23 contributing authors, and 24 addictive stories. Some of the authors I know and love, while others are new to me. I have really enjoyed reading the stories from the authors I am familiar with, but also the introduction to some other first-rate authors.
This collection contains many and varied styles, stories and characters. But they all have one thing in common, each is set in or on a holiday- including Valentine’s Day, Summer Vacation, Father’s Day, Chinese New Year, and of course Christmas.
The stories range from second chance romance, to office romance, to star-crossed lovers- and everything in between.
This book was very easy to read, I forgot the outside world as I lost myself in each and every story. There is something here for everyone, and I was surprised by the quality of every them all. Thee wasn’t one that let the side down- they all stood on their own individually, but also complimented one-another.
I would definitely recommend this book, there are many hours of entertaining and pleasurable reading to be had within these pages.
Thank you to all the contributing authors!
12 Months of Romance: 24 Reasons to Love is a fantastic Anthology of Holiday Romances. There are 23 contributing authors, and 24 addictive stories. Some of the authors I know and love, while others are new to me. I have really enjoyed reading the stories from the authors I am familiar with, but also the introduction to some other first-rate authors.
This collection contains many and varied styles, stories and characters. But they all have one thing in common, each is set in or on a holiday- including Valentine’s Day, Summer Vacation, Father’s Day, Chinese New Year, and of course Christmas.
The stories range from second chance romance, to office romance, to star-crossed lovers- and everything in between.
This book was very easy to read, I forgot the outside world as I lost myself in each and every story. There is something here for everyone, and I was surprised by the quality of every them all. Thee wasn’t one that let the side down- they all stood on their own individually, but also complimented one-another.
I would definitely recommend this book, there are many hours of entertaining and pleasurable reading to be had within these pages.
Thank you to all the contributing authors!
December 6, 2017
Anthology-12 Months of Romance: 24 Reason’s to Love. This was a nice little break from reality for me this anthology includes a wide variety of story types including friends to lovers. Second chance romance, some supernatural and sci-fi gay romance. The stories aren’t super long so if one doesn’t hold your interest you can skip to the next easily. This anthology is full of a wide variety of men there’s doctors, single dad’s, alpha males and many more. Some of the stories are just nice little office romances like Endings and Beginnings written by Celestine Trinidad. Another office romance is Midday Mishap written by Miel Salva. This was a nice short read and also a second chance Romance.
A list of authors in this anthology: Erleen Alvares • Kate Anolin • Ysa Arcangel • Ella Banta • Barbie Barbieto • Rachelle Belaro • Cindy dela Cruz • Catherine Dellosa • Elizabeth Galit • Clara Gamboa • Ren Guevara • Khiara Laurea • Johanna Lee • Eris Peñaluna • Farrah Polestico • Michael Recto • Kit Salazar • Miel Salva • Aileen Santos • Maria Criselda R. Santos • Yeyet Soriano • Marian Tee • Celestine Trinidad
A list of authors in this anthology: Erleen Alvares • Kate Anolin • Ysa Arcangel • Ella Banta • Barbie Barbieto • Rachelle Belaro • Cindy dela Cruz • Catherine Dellosa • Elizabeth Galit • Clara Gamboa • Ren Guevara • Khiara Laurea • Johanna Lee • Eris Peñaluna • Farrah Polestico • Michael Recto • Kit Salazar • Miel Salva • Aileen Santos • Maria Criselda R. Santos • Yeyet Soriano • Marian Tee • Celestine Trinidad
November 29, 2017
What I like about 12 Months of Romance is that they are quickie stories that all elicit feelings of love, desire, a connection. They are short enough you can pick up the book anytime you have a free moment, choose one, and get lost in it. Oh and finish said story in one sitting.
I have read a few so far and look forward to reading the others whenever I need a quick getaway into a love story.
Endings and Beginnings was cute, it was about the start of something new, they had been working with each other for awhile.
Fireworks was aptly named as it was a hot one! It’s a friends to lovers, and the next story, Plans on the 13th, was a continuation of that couple. She is so insecure about them dating and waiting for the other shoe to drop. He’s sexy and cocky, though.
Begin Again was nice. This girl hasn’t dated for awhile and has a freakin awful ex. But she finally comes across someone that may be worth taking down her walls.
In short, I liked this set of stories and that they are all centered around a short moment in time.
I have read a few so far and look forward to reading the others whenever I need a quick getaway into a love story.
Endings and Beginnings was cute, it was about the start of something new, they had been working with each other for awhile.
Fireworks was aptly named as it was a hot one! It’s a friends to lovers, and the next story, Plans on the 13th, was a continuation of that couple. She is so insecure about them dating and waiting for the other shoe to drop. He’s sexy and cocky, though.
Begin Again was nice. This girl hasn’t dated for awhile and has a freakin awful ex. But she finally comes across someone that may be worth taking down her walls.
In short, I liked this set of stories and that they are all centered around a short moment in time.
December 5, 2017
5 Star
12 Months Of Romance /24 Reasons to Love:A Holiday Anthology by 23 pretty great authors..This is a books of 12 months of hot sweet romances that are centered around the holidays Some of these authors were new to me but others I've read some by them I think there's definitely something for everyone I'm definitely going to be looking into the new to me authors and reading more from them.I really enjoyed that the stories were arranged by months and stories to match also really loved the variety of stories we got to experience in this anthology from romance, science fictuon.Everyone of these stories will take you on a journey that you soon won't be forgetting. .I highly recommend this anthology as I know you will enjoy it as much as I did.
12 Months Of Romance /24 Reasons to Love:A Holiday Anthology by 23 pretty great authors..This is a books of 12 months of hot sweet romances that are centered around the holidays Some of these authors were new to me but others I've read some by them I think there's definitely something for everyone I'm definitely going to be looking into the new to me authors and reading more from them.I really enjoyed that the stories were arranged by months and stories to match also really loved the variety of stories we got to experience in this anthology from romance, science fictuon.Everyone of these stories will take you on a journey that you soon won't be forgetting. .I highly recommend this anthology as I know you will enjoy it as much as I did.
August 21, 2019
A woman prays to the Chinese gods for a new boyfriend and rocks in the new year with fireworks. There was actually two stories from this author. Why does Dev care way too much that she didn’t get asked out on Valentine’s Day? And that Jared guy was way too possessive. Kind of a waste to have two stories on these two characters.
I think the best one was probably the one by Erleen Alvarez, who wrote a story about a woman going stag on V-Day. Stories were really not as great as I thought they’d be. Just a bunch of really dumb ones surrounding holidays I’ve never even heard of.
I think the best one was probably the one by Erleen Alvarez, who wrote a story about a woman going stag on V-Day. Stories were really not as great as I thought they’d be. Just a bunch of really dumb ones surrounding holidays I’ve never even heard of.
December 5, 2017
I love that this book has 24 short stories of love. It was a cant put down book. I could be busy and exhausted at the end of a long day and find myself reading three stories and not wanting to put it down. These stories make me want to read more about these characters. The sweet stories make your heart melt and other stories that are sexy that you just get hot. Amazing book and definitely worth another read or 10. We need more books like this in the world!!
October 23, 2018
the variety pack of a few dozen romantic shorts offers a wide selection of choices.
meet the ghostly, the ghastly - because that dude is just too much of a jerk NOT to be real, or real life based - and all the fun and funky friendship over lovers, work crush to vava voom! and lots of other fun tidbits.
a great way to find some new favorite authors for your romance reads!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
meet the ghostly, the ghastly - because that dude is just too much of a jerk NOT to be real, or real life based - and all the fun and funky friendship over lovers, work crush to vava voom! and lots of other fun tidbits.
a great way to find some new favorite authors for your romance reads!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2017
A varied collection of stories that will carry you through the year. I appreciated the different cultures and backgrounds represented throughout the anthology. A fun and fast paced read that will please most readers. This is a fun collection to keep handy for a few hours of light hearted enjoyment.
December 8, 2017
12 Months Of Romance
This was a fun read, and I believe most readers will and can find a story in this anthology that they will love. I will say that there were some stories I liked and some I did not. But overall, you can spend a day getting lost in the 12 Months Of Romance.
This was a fun read, and I believe most readers will and can find a story in this anthology that they will love. I will say that there were some stories I liked and some I did not. But overall, you can spend a day getting lost in the 12 Months Of Romance.
October 30, 2018
A year of romance you can devour in one sitting...
I love anthologies and this one made my heart pitter patter. This book is full of great short stories for each holiday of the year.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love anthologies and this one made my heart pitter patter. This book is full of great short stories for each holiday of the year.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2018
Fall in love and enjoy these lovely love stories. You will not be able to put them down so sit and enjoy each one
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.
November 4, 2018
I like the stories. They are very different which is great. Usually Stories in sets are of similar type. Great characters, plots and backgrounds. All well written and nice to read. Enjoy
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.
November 5, 2017
Some of the stories here might not be someone's cup of tea, but still, this is the best, if not one of the best, anthologies I've ever read.
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