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Yours For The Holiday
Fresh off a break-up, Remy is in no mood to share a room with his brother's best friend during a holiday stay at home. Jason Hendricks has always treated him like a little brother to tease and taunt, all the more embarrassing because Remy has secretly crushed on the jerk since puberty. But when Jason confides he's bisexual, Remy realizes the crush he loves to hate could be the perfect rebound.
Jason has always found Remy appealing. He didn't handle his attraction well when he was younger, but now Remy's a grown man and Jason's no longer afraid of his feelings. Some playful flirtation sounds like a great way to spend Thanksgiving break, but he's not prepared for Remy's newfound sex appeal or his decision to make Jason his rebound fling. Jason doesn't want to risk fallout with a family that's always been there for him, but he's not sure he can resist.
When the two part ways, they don't plan to stay in touch, but soon they're texting, trading sexy pictures and helping each other cope with family drama. Remy agrees to be his for the holiday, continuing their secret fling over Christmas, but Jason knows that won't be enough. He'll have to find the courage to be open and honest with his best friend -- and the whole Wells family -- if he wants a chance at love in the new year.
Jason has always found Remy appealing. He didn't handle his attraction well when he was younger, but now Remy's a grown man and Jason's no longer afraid of his feelings. Some playful flirtation sounds like a great way to spend Thanksgiving break, but he's not prepared for Remy's newfound sex appeal or his decision to make Jason his rebound fling. Jason doesn't want to risk fallout with a family that's always been there for him, but he's not sure he can resist.
When the two part ways, they don't plan to stay in touch, but soon they're texting, trading sexy pictures and helping each other cope with family drama. Remy agrees to be his for the holiday, continuing their secret fling over Christmas, but Jason knows that won't be enough. He'll have to find the courage to be open and honest with his best friend -- and the whole Wells family -- if he wants a chance at love in the new year.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2017
133 people are currently reading
299 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Jamison
78 books975 followersDJ Jamison writes a variety of queer men finding extraordinary love through M/M Romance! She is a lifelong reader and has always loved writing and editing, with a ten-year journalism career before she began publishing romance. She has books in ebook, print, and audio, as well as German, French, and Italian translations.
DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
Join DJ's mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/DJandCompany
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DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
December 14, 2017
One Bah, Humbug review coming right up:
This story really didn't work for me. The MCs acted like immature, oversexed teenagers, and Remy's older brother was an absolute idiot. I was rolling my eyes the entire time.
This plot had been done better many times before. And don't get me started on the cover.
I'm also taking a star off for the numerous editing issue.
This story really didn't work for me. The MCs acted like immature, oversexed teenagers, and Remy's older brother was an absolute idiot. I was rolling my eyes the entire time.
This plot had been done better many times before. And don't get me started on the cover.
I'm also taking a star off for the numerous editing issue.
November 17, 2017
3.5 STARS
First of all: that cover... I have no words for it...but we all know that out there there are a lot of cringing covers that deserves the Fahrenheit 451 treatment.
But the book is good and the only cringing thing about it, it's the cover. Promise. So forget the sacrilegious bonfires, open the book without looking at the man with the Santa hat, and prepare yourself to start burning for a very different reason.
The premise here is one that always attracts me: gay guy with a crush for his brother's best friend who is straight and -apparently- imposible to get. If we add to the mix a frenemies kinda relationship and a flirtatious attitude, I'm game. Pretty simple.
And that's what we have in Yours for the Holiday . A sexy read with a huge dose of family (good stuff, not the homophobic kind, it's thanksgiving + Christmas, after all) some sweet and cute moments and great dirty talk.
Both MCs felt real to me, with their insecurities, background and fears.
I like both. Remmy, who has been dumped by his asshole boyfriend and now he is licking his wounds in the presence of his crush since forever and Jason (a.k.a JJ), the closeted bisexual with a dysfunctional family, who finds support in Remy's, and doesn't want to mess with that having a fling with his best friend's little brother (he is 22, no that little)
They have chemistry and the sex scenes are hot. They also have the familiarity and easiness of two men who have grown up together, and I love when that happens. I mean, I like the sexy times like everybody else does, but I want to see more, much more and here we have that little something that let you feel them beyond the hot scenes. More depth than it seems at first sight, good UST rejection, jealousy, denial, some hot sex, funny and sweet texting, and a bunch of nice people celebrating, first Thanksgiving and after that, Christmas. It was entertaining and I truly enjoyed the ride. The relationship development felt real and it has a super nice epilogue too.
I'll be checking this author work because it was fun and I liked the well constructed relationship where the fling turning out in a more serious thing was natural, progressive and understandable.
I recommend this book to those who love the premise I've described, want some sweet Christmas story and likable characters discovering how a hook up is not enough for some couples.
******An advanced reading copy of this book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review******
Reviews for Book Lovers
First of all: that cover... I have no words for it...but we all know that out there there are a lot of cringing covers that deserves the Fahrenheit 451 treatment.
But the book is good and the only cringing thing about it, it's the cover. Promise. So forget the sacrilegious bonfires, open the book without looking at the man with the Santa hat, and prepare yourself to start burning for a very different reason.
The premise here is one that always attracts me: gay guy with a crush for his brother's best friend who is straight and -apparently- imposible to get. If we add to the mix a frenemies kinda relationship and a flirtatious attitude, I'm game. Pretty simple.
And that's what we have in Yours for the Holiday . A sexy read with a huge dose of family (good stuff, not the homophobic kind, it's thanksgiving + Christmas, after all) some sweet and cute moments and great dirty talk.
Both MCs felt real to me, with their insecurities, background and fears.
I like both. Remmy, who has been dumped by his asshole boyfriend and now he is licking his wounds in the presence of his crush since forever and Jason (a.k.a JJ), the closeted bisexual with a dysfunctional family, who finds support in Remy's, and doesn't want to mess with that having a fling with his best friend's little brother (he is 22, no that little)
They have chemistry and the sex scenes are hot. They also have the familiarity and easiness of two men who have grown up together, and I love when that happens. I mean, I like the sexy times like everybody else does, but I want to see more, much more and here we have that little something that let you feel them beyond the hot scenes. More depth than it seems at first sight, good UST rejection, jealousy, denial, some hot sex, funny and sweet texting, and a bunch of nice people celebrating, first Thanksgiving and after that, Christmas. It was entertaining and I truly enjoyed the ride. The relationship development felt real and it has a super nice epilogue too.
I'll be checking this author work because it was fun and I liked the well constructed relationship where the fling turning out in a more serious thing was natural, progressive and understandable.
I recommend this book to those who love the premise I've described, want some sweet Christmas story and likable characters discovering how a hook up is not enough for some couples.
******An advanced reading copy of this book was generously provided to me in exchange for an honest review******
Reviews for Book Lovers
November 17, 2020
TSTL? No, but definitely TSTBIAR: Too Stupid To Be In A Relationship. These guys need to grow up and acquire at least minimal people skills before they're qualified to interact with other human beings. And that goes not just for the leads, but for the pathologically jealous best friend/brother as well.
At 78%, my Kindle is telling me I'm only 15 minutes away from finishing this -- but damn, I just can't do it. I'm worn out by the repetition -- over and over and over again with the same explanation of why each guy doesn't dare try for a relationship. Yeah, I got it the first time. And the second time. And the third time. And now that it's being all spelled out once again, for about the 17th time, I simply cannot take it any more.
Also, I don't care what happens to any of these people. Oh wait -- one exception. I'm concerned about the jealous guy's ex-girlfriend. There's no way in hell she should give in and reconcile with Mr. Most Likely To Become An Abuser until he's had a couple years' worth of intensive therapy. And I'm willing to bet this story reunites them as part of a "happy" ending. 🤬
Okay, I've wasted enough of my life on this book. Moving on now --
At 78%, my Kindle is telling me I'm only 15 minutes away from finishing this -- but damn, I just can't do it. I'm worn out by the repetition -- over and over and over again with the same explanation of why each guy doesn't dare try for a relationship. Yeah, I got it the first time. And the second time. And the third time. And now that it's being all spelled out once again, for about the 17th time, I simply cannot take it any more.
Also, I don't care what happens to any of these people. Oh wait -- one exception. I'm concerned about the jealous guy's ex-girlfriend. There's no way in hell she should give in and reconcile with Mr. Most Likely To Become An Abuser until he's had a couple years' worth of intensive therapy. And I'm willing to bet this story reunites them as part of a "happy" ending. 🤬
Okay, I've wasted enough of my life on this book. Moving on now --
November 6, 2020
*cringe*
This was a complete miss for me.
I struggled to finish and resorted to skim-reading to save myself some misery while still trying to give it a chance for redemption.
Nope.
Never got any better.
Immature characters, superficial plot bordering on ridiculous and awkward sex scenes.
I think this is the second time I've tried this author with similar results...lesson learned.
We just...don't fit.
This was a complete miss for me.
I struggled to finish and resorted to skim-reading to save myself some misery while still trying to give it a chance for redemption.
Nope.
Never got any better.
Immature characters, superficial plot bordering on ridiculous and awkward sex scenes.
I think this is the second time I've tried this author with similar results...lesson learned.
We just...don't fit.
November 27, 2017
It's the holidays so of course there's...
angst and drama galore!!!
Remy's fresh off a break-up with his boyfriend and getting passed over for a promotion at his job. Feeling more than a little hurt and insecure he's hoping to spend a quiet holiday with his family nursing his broken heart and wounded pride.
Derek is Remy's brother and he's bringing a girl home for the first time ever to meet his family which includes his best friend and Remy's first crush...Jason...straight, sexy fireman Jason. The man that Remy loves to hate and who seems to share his feelings.
Now add in the fact that Jason's family is the poster family for 'dysfunctional' that's right he's got a sister who died when he was four years old. His parents are still mourning her...dad's a workaholic and mom's an alcoholic.
Oh and let's not forget about Remy's ex because trust me his roll in all this is not done.
Drama folks...there is so much drama and yet for me it worked...as I said to my other half when I finished reading the story...It's like spending the holiday with my family.
Ironically in spite of or maybe because of all the drama I enjoyed this one. There was a lot of good and interesting stuff going on here and it works. Remy and Derek's parents are awesome. They're loving and supportive of their kids and for them that includes Jason. But they're also realistic and believable as parents. I really liked Remy and Jason with all their flaws and insecurities. I loved that while both of them seemed to feel like they were walking in thin ice they still kept trying. The conversations between these two whether in person or done via text messages were humorous, sexy and just generally entertaining.
I didn't mind all the angst and drama in this one...honestly it's the holidays and having grown up in a large family I can honestly say a spike in family drama during the holidays is not an impossibility by any means but I had a bit of an issue with Derek. Sorry but as a BF...Derek was a fail in my books. He grew up with Jason and he was way to willing to believe the the worst about someone who was suppose to be his friend...no, just no. You don't believe that kind of stuff without even giving your best friend a chance and especially based on what Derek knew. For me as a friend Derek was a fail, but sadly I think Derek also had baggage of his own to deal with.
While I don't want a lot of drama and angst in my reading...occasionally it works and for the most part this was one of those occasions.I liked Remy and Jason and watching them as they went basically from enemies, or frenimies at the very least, to lovers was a fun and festive journey worth taking to see these two men reach their destination.
*************************
An ARC of 'Yours For The Holiday' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
angst and drama galore!!!
Remy's fresh off a break-up with his boyfriend and getting passed over for a promotion at his job. Feeling more than a little hurt and insecure he's hoping to spend a quiet holiday with his family nursing his broken heart and wounded pride.
Derek is Remy's brother and he's bringing a girl home for the first time ever to meet his family which includes his best friend and Remy's first crush...Jason...straight, sexy fireman Jason. The man that Remy loves to hate and who seems to share his feelings.
Now add in the fact that Jason's family is the poster family for 'dysfunctional' that's right he's got a sister who died when he was four years old. His parents are still mourning her...dad's a workaholic and mom's an alcoholic.
Oh and let's not forget about Remy's ex because trust me his roll in all this is not done.
Drama folks...there is so much drama and yet for me it worked...as I said to my other half when I finished reading the story...It's like spending the holiday with my family.
Ironically in spite of or maybe because of all the drama I enjoyed this one. There was a lot of good and interesting stuff going on here and it works. Remy and Derek's parents are awesome. They're loving and supportive of their kids and for them that includes Jason. But they're also realistic and believable as parents. I really liked Remy and Jason with all their flaws and insecurities. I loved that while both of them seemed to feel like they were walking in thin ice they still kept trying. The conversations between these two whether in person or done via text messages were humorous, sexy and just generally entertaining.
I didn't mind all the angst and drama in this one...honestly it's the holidays and having grown up in a large family I can honestly say a spike in family drama during the holidays is not an impossibility by any means but I had a bit of an issue with Derek. Sorry but as a BF...Derek was a fail in my books. He grew up with Jason and he was way to willing to believe the the worst about someone who was suppose to be his friend...no, just no. You don't believe that kind of stuff without even giving your best friend a chance and especially based on what Derek knew. For me as a friend Derek was a fail, but sadly I think Derek also had baggage of his own to deal with.
While I don't want a lot of drama and angst in my reading...occasionally it works and for the most part this was one of those occasions.I liked Remy and Jason and watching them as they went basically from enemies, or frenimies at the very least, to lovers was a fun and festive journey worth taking to see these two men reach their destination.
*************************
An ARC of 'Yours For The Holiday' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2017
I totally loved this story... Jason and Remy are so awesome and so hot and adorable together. I felt like I was right there with them throughout the story. It was so very well-written and a fun ride all the way. Totally awesome, fun, uplifting and tearfully happy story! What FUN!!!
December 6, 2017
No me han gustado los personajes, menos todavía los secundarios, el plot me ha parecido aburrido y que le faltaba mostrar muchas cosas.
Poca más puedo decir.
Poca más puedo decir.
November 30, 2017
As a holiday piece, it was a bit light for my taste on the holiday mood. As a love story between a guy and his "forbidden fruit" of a bff-little-brother kind, it was too dragging on the drama. It was like it wanted to be many things at once and never really found solid ground on any front. Overall it was entertaining, but not much more.
November 28, 2017
One of my fave tropes is best friend's sibling to more. (okay, okay, I do realize that a lot of my reviews say "such and such is my fave trope"). Truly, I enjoy established relationships morphing into new relationships.
I will admit that I have had some issues in the past with this author's books keeping my attention, but I did enjoy this story. This one lost me for about a chapter or so of Derek (Remy's brother) douchiness and I skimmed to get past some of his childish behavior. Once I was past that, things moved along easier for me. I am not sure what purpose Derek's issues served in the storyline, but that may just be me and how I interpreted this story.
If Remy and Jason really talked I must have missed it. As it stands, the characters individually were pretty fleshed out. The author does a good job introducing us to who they are in their real lives and how they fit with the Wells family.
I liked Remy and I liked Jason, but other than a previously unexplored attraction to each other, I am not sure that either of these guys really knew each other as the people they are today. They go from a chemistry-laden holiday fling to sexting back home to devoted in a snap and there isn't a lot of time spent cultivating a long-lasting relationship or even developing a short-term one.
Even when Remy comes to Jason's rescue, there is no real discussion, no opportunity for Remy to show he can emotionally support a vulnerable Jason. Remy's insecurity from his break up is also not truly resolved as these two never really talk.
All in all, it was a cute story with hot times set in a cold climate and ending with a sweet HEA. Things do wrap up pretty quickly, but this was a fairly short book so I give that a pass. Just 3 stars mainly due to lack of relationship development.
I got this as an ARC from the author, but it is also on KU.
I will admit that I have had some issues in the past with this author's books keeping my attention, but I did enjoy this story. This one lost me for about a chapter or so of Derek (Remy's brother) douchiness and I skimmed to get past some of his childish behavior. Once I was past that, things moved along easier for me. I am not sure what purpose Derek's issues served in the storyline, but that may just be me and how I interpreted this story.
If Remy and Jason really talked I must have missed it. As it stands, the characters individually were pretty fleshed out. The author does a good job introducing us to who they are in their real lives and how they fit with the Wells family.
I liked Remy and I liked Jason, but other than a previously unexplored attraction to each other, I am not sure that either of these guys really knew each other as the people they are today. They go from a chemistry-laden holiday fling to sexting back home to devoted in a snap and there isn't a lot of time spent cultivating a long-lasting relationship or even developing a short-term one.
Even when Remy comes to Jason's rescue, there is no real discussion, no opportunity for Remy to show he can emotionally support a vulnerable Jason. Remy's insecurity from his break up is also not truly resolved as these two never really talk.
All in all, it was a cute story with hot times set in a cold climate and ending with a sweet HEA. Things do wrap up pretty quickly, but this was a fairly short book so I give that a pass. Just 3 stars mainly due to lack of relationship development.
I got this as an ARC from the author, but it is also on KU.
November 18, 2017
I really enjoyed this Christmas read with a little bit of family drama to stop it being too sweet.
Remy and Jason had great chemistry, I loved the banter between them and the long history of knowing each other for years. The secondary characters were nicely drawn out too and I liked the setting with its small town festive feel.
The angst wasn't too overdrawn and it worked well to offset all the cute moments as Remy and Jason danced around each other. I'm not sure the drama with Derek worked quite as well, it seemed odd that he'd just not trust his best friend without any real evidence but that's a minor criticism only and it didn't spoil the story at all.
The ending was really sweet too and I believed in their HEA completely.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Remy and Jason had great chemistry, I loved the banter between them and the long history of knowing each other for years. The secondary characters were nicely drawn out too and I liked the setting with its small town festive feel.
The angst wasn't too overdrawn and it worked well to offset all the cute moments as Remy and Jason danced around each other. I'm not sure the drama with Derek worked quite as well, it seemed odd that he'd just not trust his best friend without any real evidence but that's a minor criticism only and it didn't spoil the story at all.
The ending was really sweet too and I believed in their HEA completely.
#ARC received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
November 21, 2017
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
I’m not always in the mood for a holiday story but D.J. Jamison is a solid writer for me and I know her books satisfy me deeply. This book was no exception and it warmed my heart pleasantly.
The story deals with Jason, in the book often called as JJ, and his best friend’s little brother, Remy, who he has a crush on since they are children – even if Jason isn’t open to anybody and is having a hate-love relationship with the younger guy.
I really loved the building up, the tension and the thrill in both realizing how much they care for each other. Surround mostly only over the holidays, with Jason kind of third son & beloved member of the family, it’s not a great basis for a relationship. Especially because everybody, including Remy, think, Jason is straight.
The bisexual topic is well displayed in the book, the insecurities there but not overly dramatic. There are some character not believing Jason first, when he opens, including Remy, but for me it was not because of the character’s malice more the surprise stroke them. In almost every scene I had a warm, pleasant feeling about the character and you really see the deep bond, the care for each other and the trust. At least in some parts, but in revealing who isn’t showing the utmost trust in a person I would spoil to much. Let’s say it’s part if the tension in the book but afterwards pretty understandable why this character thought this way. Still I had the most problems with this character if I’m honest.
Next to the warming connection between Jason and the Wells family there is Jason’s family as a counterpart. It’s heatrbreaking and so saddening how Jason has to deal with a lot of the troubles with his family on his own.
The book was in every kind a rollercoaster of emotions, I really loved the sparks between Jason and Remy. Both are hesitant in their building relationship, hiding it behind the “it’s just a fling”-cover where in fact both are head over heels for each other.
Remy is having hard times in first trusting Jason. Not only because of his childhood pranks and his behaviour, also thinking he is straight and for nothing in the world be interested in him. Also as being Derek’s little brother, who’s the best friend, is a total no-go for a future relationship – or so they thought. But another deal breaker is his break up with his cheating boyfriend and the reluctant confession that he is having deeper feelings for Jason.
The erotic scenes are on point, sometimes full of fun and laughter, banter, then steamy hot and sexy. But also full of emotions, especially at the end when the true feelings are revealing.
The book gets 5 out of 5 stars. A really nice, holiday themed books without being too heavy on the celebration side. The focus lies on the change from “enemies” to lovers, and it’s so amazing to see the deep feelings blossom & to get the nice, happy, cozy happy end. ❤
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
I’m not always in the mood for a holiday story but D.J. Jamison is a solid writer for me and I know her books satisfy me deeply. This book was no exception and it warmed my heart pleasantly.
The story deals with Jason, in the book often called as JJ, and his best friend’s little brother, Remy, who he has a crush on since they are children – even if Jason isn’t open to anybody and is having a hate-love relationship with the younger guy.
I really loved the building up, the tension and the thrill in both realizing how much they care for each other. Surround mostly only over the holidays, with Jason kind of third son & beloved member of the family, it’s not a great basis for a relationship. Especially because everybody, including Remy, think, Jason is straight.
The bisexual topic is well displayed in the book, the insecurities there but not overly dramatic. There are some character not believing Jason first, when he opens, including Remy, but for me it was not because of the character’s malice more the surprise stroke them. In almost every scene I had a warm, pleasant feeling about the character and you really see the deep bond, the care for each other and the trust. At least in some parts, but in revealing who isn’t showing the utmost trust in a person I would spoil to much. Let’s say it’s part if the tension in the book but afterwards pretty understandable why this character thought this way. Still I had the most problems with this character if I’m honest.
Next to the warming connection between Jason and the Wells family there is Jason’s family as a counterpart. It’s heatrbreaking and so saddening how Jason has to deal with a lot of the troubles with his family on his own.
The book was in every kind a rollercoaster of emotions, I really loved the sparks between Jason and Remy. Both are hesitant in their building relationship, hiding it behind the “it’s just a fling”-cover where in fact both are head over heels for each other.
Remy is having hard times in first trusting Jason. Not only because of his childhood pranks and his behaviour, also thinking he is straight and for nothing in the world be interested in him. Also as being Derek’s little brother, who’s the best friend, is a total no-go for a future relationship – or so they thought. But another deal breaker is his break up with his cheating boyfriend and the reluctant confession that he is having deeper feelings for Jason.
The erotic scenes are on point, sometimes full of fun and laughter, banter, then steamy hot and sexy. But also full of emotions, especially at the end when the true feelings are revealing.
The book gets 5 out of 5 stars. A really nice, holiday themed books without being too heavy on the celebration side. The focus lies on the change from “enemies” to lovers, and it’s so amazing to see the deep feelings blossom & to get the nice, happy, cozy happy end. ❤
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
November 21, 2017
3.5 stars
Yours For The Holiday is a holiday fling team up with frenemies to lovers. A lovely and a little bit annoying story between Remy Wells and his brother's best friend, Jason. Due to Jason's dysfunctional family, he spent most of his holidays with the Wells family and Remy is like a little brother he like to prank on. I thought the whole 'I-like-you-so-I-decided-to-tease-you-and-prank-on-you' is a little lame. But anyway, their secret holiday affair does seems scandalous and there was much push and pull factor when it comes to wanting more out of it.
We also had a little tidbit on Remy's brother, Derek relationship woos, which I think is a total bullshit. What's wrong with him?! The sexting between Remy and Jason was a nice touch, but I feel that they took much time to come to an understanding, which dampen my mood a little. This is a Christmas theme novella afterall. However, they did ended the story on a high note. All the problem was solved once they were outed and Remy's opinion changed drastically, a bit too fast for me to fathom. It was sweet and swoon-worthy and I love it.
Yours For The Holiday is a holiday fling team up with frenemies to lovers. A lovely and a little bit annoying story between Remy Wells and his brother's best friend, Jason. Due to Jason's dysfunctional family, he spent most of his holidays with the Wells family and Remy is like a little brother he like to prank on. I thought the whole 'I-like-you-so-I-decided-to-tease-you-and-prank-on-you' is a little lame. But anyway, their secret holiday affair does seems scandalous and there was much push and pull factor when it comes to wanting more out of it.
We also had a little tidbit on Remy's brother, Derek relationship woos, which I think is a total bullshit. What's wrong with him?! The sexting between Remy and Jason was a nice touch, but I feel that they took much time to come to an understanding, which dampen my mood a little. This is a Christmas theme novella afterall. However, they did ended the story on a high note. All the problem was solved once they were outed and Remy's opinion changed drastically, a bit too fast for me to fathom. It was sweet and swoon-worthy and I love it.
November 30, 2017
Completely ignoring that shudder-worthy cover, the description was intriguing. I liked the story but there were a few things that made it a meh read. Like, I wanted to be wowed by it and I wasn't. So it was a bit disappointing in that sense.
The story was nice, the concept of this guy's brother best friend and him fooling around and dancing around each other was pretty lovely but the execution of that plot fell a bit flat. There was a lot of repetition in narrative. There were "lets clarify my intentions" conversations but they were futile because it went through a sieve for all the growth the character had as a result of the open communication. I mean, they spoke to each other and clarified stuff but they never believe each other. And still the narrative constantly waxed poetry about how they've been crushing on each other since childhood. It was kind of confusing the whole thing.
Its a good read but I won't repeat it and I was hoping for a better written book than I read.
This book gets a 3.0 rating.
All my love,
sri
P.S.: The ARC of this book was requested through instafreebies.
The story was nice, the concept of this guy's brother best friend and him fooling around and dancing around each other was pretty lovely but the execution of that plot fell a bit flat. There was a lot of repetition in narrative. There were "lets clarify my intentions" conversations but they were futile because it went through a sieve for all the growth the character had as a result of the open communication. I mean, they spoke to each other and clarified stuff but they never believe each other. And still the narrative constantly waxed poetry about how they've been crushing on each other since childhood. It was kind of confusing the whole thing.
Its a good read but I won't repeat it and I was hoping for a better written book than I read.
This book gets a 3.0 rating.
All my love,
sri
P.S.: The ARC of this book was requested through instafreebies.
November 30, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Oh, this was a hot read that hit all my buttons. I loved the super thick layers of angst as Remy and JJ fight hard against their attraction. The angst is given a bit more depth through the characters’ backstories. Remy’s ex cheated on him and accused him of being boring, so he’s feeling vulnerable. Plus, we learn that Remy had harbored a childhood crush on JJ despite all the antagonizing that went on between them. I thought this was a great combination because ostensibly, Remy’s not even looking at JJ for anything other than the usual brotherly antics, but he’s raw from the breakup.
As for JJ, none of the Wells knows that he is bisexual. He’s been experimenting and had sexual encounters with men, but as far as his surrogate family is concerned, he’s a few steps shy of being a serial dater. I thought this worked totally well in favor of upping the tension between JJ and Remy because once they bump into each other at the cabin, JJ realizes he’s actually attracted to Remy. He’s got to figure out what that could mean for his relationship with Remy and the rest of the family, but he also can’t help but send out subtle signals that he’s totally interested. This leads of a few tasty, angsty scenes where JJ inadvertently rejects Remy and has to find a way to make it up.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Oh, this was a hot read that hit all my buttons. I loved the super thick layers of angst as Remy and JJ fight hard against their attraction. The angst is given a bit more depth through the characters’ backstories. Remy’s ex cheated on him and accused him of being boring, so he’s feeling vulnerable. Plus, we learn that Remy had harbored a childhood crush on JJ despite all the antagonizing that went on between them. I thought this was a great combination because ostensibly, Remy’s not even looking at JJ for anything other than the usual brotherly antics, but he’s raw from the breakup.
As for JJ, none of the Wells knows that he is bisexual. He’s been experimenting and had sexual encounters with men, but as far as his surrogate family is concerned, he’s a few steps shy of being a serial dater. I thought this worked totally well in favor of upping the tension between JJ and Remy because once they bump into each other at the cabin, JJ realizes he’s actually attracted to Remy. He’s got to figure out what that could mean for his relationship with Remy and the rest of the family, but he also can’t help but send out subtle signals that he’s totally interested. This leads of a few tasty, angsty scenes where JJ inadvertently rejects Remy and has to find a way to make it up.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
December 2, 2018
Loved the MCs!
November 26, 2022
This was a short quick read that I liked. Remy goes home for the holidays he is nursing a broken heart and he is not in the mood to share A room with his brothers annoying best friend Jason. Jason Hendricks has always treated him like a little brother to tease and taunt, all the more embarrassing because Remy has secretly crushed on the jerk since puberty. But when Jason confides he's bisexual, Remy realizes the crush he loves to hate could be the perfect rebound. Jason has a few issues he is not out and he has always felt like he was part of the Wells family with not being close. This was a good read with no drama. Jason coming to terms with his sexuality. This was my first time reading this author. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
November 18, 2017
4 Stars
Remy who has just recently broken up with his cheating boyfriend heads to his parents' cabin for Thanksgiving. When he gets there, he finds himself rooming with Jason, his older brother’s best friend, who he’s had a crush on since forever. He’s even more shocked when Jason admits he’s bisexual and is attracted to Remy. Can Remy finally get the guy he’s always wanted, at least for the holidays?
I really liked both Jason (JJ) and Remy and I loved the frenemies to lovers storyline and I absolutely adored the banter between them, especially their text messages. Both men have insecurities, JJ isn’t sure about coming out after spending his entire life with all of his friends, family and co-workers believing he is completely straight, while Remy fears being hurt again after what happened with his last boyfriend.
I like the progression of their relationship and I loved watching them discover one another and fall in love. The chemistry between them was amazing and once they finally gave in to it and started exploring their feeling for each other it was hot, yet sweet and passionate.
My heart really broke at the situation with JJ’s parents. I wanted to cuddle JJ and throat punch his parents for not seeing the amazing son they had and only focusing on the daughter they lost years before. I don’t often believe a child should wash their hands of their parents, but here I did. I understand grief, but this was too much, especially after such a long period of time has passed, but it warmed my heart that Remy and Derek’s family accepted and loved JJ and always welcomed him in as part of the family.
Speaking of Derek, Remy’s brother and JJ’s best friend, well, JJ’s supposedly best friend, because I thought JJ needed to give him the boot, perhaps right up his ass! He was a complete twat for the way he treated JJ, and if you can’t trust your best friend, then they're not really much of a friend and you should probably walk away. I know this wouldn’t have worked for the storyline, but seriously, SOMEONE needed to knock Derek the F out!!
This was a sweet and sexy, albeit slightly infuriating holiday read, that kept me up until 3 AM finishing it, filled with laughter, family and love, with just a bit of angst thrown in. Very recommendable!
*copy provided to me by the author/publisher*
Remy who has just recently broken up with his cheating boyfriend heads to his parents' cabin for Thanksgiving. When he gets there, he finds himself rooming with Jason, his older brother’s best friend, who he’s had a crush on since forever. He’s even more shocked when Jason admits he’s bisexual and is attracted to Remy. Can Remy finally get the guy he’s always wanted, at least for the holidays?
I really liked both Jason (JJ) and Remy and I loved the frenemies to lovers storyline and I absolutely adored the banter between them, especially their text messages. Both men have insecurities, JJ isn’t sure about coming out after spending his entire life with all of his friends, family and co-workers believing he is completely straight, while Remy fears being hurt again after what happened with his last boyfriend.
I like the progression of their relationship and I loved watching them discover one another and fall in love. The chemistry between them was amazing and once they finally gave in to it and started exploring their feeling for each other it was hot, yet sweet and passionate.
My heart really broke at the situation with JJ’s parents. I wanted to cuddle JJ and throat punch his parents for not seeing the amazing son they had and only focusing on the daughter they lost years before. I don’t often believe a child should wash their hands of their parents, but here I did. I understand grief, but this was too much, especially after such a long period of time has passed, but it warmed my heart that Remy and Derek’s family accepted and loved JJ and always welcomed him in as part of the family.
Speaking of Derek, Remy’s brother and JJ’s best friend, well, JJ’s supposedly best friend, because I thought JJ needed to give him the boot, perhaps right up his ass! He was a complete twat for the way he treated JJ, and if you can’t trust your best friend, then they're not really much of a friend and you should probably walk away. I know this wouldn’t have worked for the storyline, but seriously, SOMEONE needed to knock Derek the F out!!
This was a sweet and sexy, albeit slightly infuriating holiday read, that kept me up until 3 AM finishing it, filled with laughter, family and love, with just a bit of angst thrown in. Very recommendable!
*copy provided to me by the author/publisher*
November 28, 2018
I loved a LOT of things about this story -- the relationships between Jordan and the Wells family, the frenemy thing between the two of them, even Derek's dickishness. There are just so many things that ring TRUE to life instead of just romantic fluffiness. I'll be reading a LOT more by this author for sure!
November 28, 2017
3.5 stars
This is one of my favorite reads by this author, that being said I have some concerns.
I don’t understand the drama concerning Derek and Jason after Thanksgiving. What was the point?
These guys haven’t seen each other in 3 years, I wish there was more getting to know you dialogue.
This is one of my favorite reads by this author, that being said I have some concerns.
I don’t understand the drama concerning Derek and Jason after Thanksgiving. What was the point?
These guys haven’t seen each other in 3 years, I wish there was more getting to know you dialogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
abandoned
November 20, 2017Not for me.
September 1, 2025
I love reading books by D. J. Jamison. They almost always make me so happy. I’ve read so many stories where dating my brother’s,or sister’s, or dad’s best friend that it’s hard to keep my attention. This story certainly worked for me. There was just enough angst to keep it from being too sweet. I have to admit that the epilogue made me cry some happy tears. Remy and Jason were just so cute together. I know that it’s several months until Christmas, but I’ll rad a good holiday story anytime.
dnf
November 17, 2020Remy was such an unlikable, snooty, drama queen, that I couldn't keep on reading after I reached 35%.
December 2, 2017
Jason has a pretty rough family life and for as long as he can remember he has spent the best part of holidays, and indeed his life, with the Wells family. Derek Wells has been his best friend forever and Derek’s little brother, Remy, has been the man he’s loved to hate. Well, maybe not hate. Let’s say the boy, now man, he’s loved to harass, torture, annoy, bother. You get the idea. While Jason’s parents live close, he is staying with the Wells family for Thanksgiving. He ends up bunking in Remy’s room (and I admit I was a little confused when he thinks, “The small patch of floor next to the bed would be Jason’s for the forseeable future.” But then just two pages later he is shocked to find out he is going to share the room with Remy. Weird of me, I know). But share a room they must and it’s really difficult for Jason because he has finally, after years, come to terms with the fact that he is bisexual, even if he isn’t out to anyone and he’s also coming to realize how much he wants Remy, who is definitely hands off.
Remy is newly out of a relationship where he was called “boring and predictable” and his boyfriend cheated on him so he’s a little bit fragile. At times, he isn’t up for the harassment of Jason. Jason wants Remy, wants him for more than just sex but wants him totally. The biggest problem is he is so terrified of losing the only real family he has, the Wells. His own parents are lost in grief over a daughter who died years ago, his father drowning himself in work and his mother drowning herself in alcohol. Jason just can’t take a chance on being unwelcome with his chosen family.
After a bit of miscommunication and rejection, Jason and Remy are at odds again. But the two are definitely attracted and so they go into a “holiday fling only” situation, which we all know tends to backfire. Jason is a firefighter and he’s always felt a little less intellectual than the Wells’ family but I liked how the family didn’t agree with that assessment.
So continues the story of Jason and Remy and their holiday fling. They have a lot to overcome – the possible loss of Jason’s surrogate family, Derek acting like a massive jerk (and I loved that his troubles with Courtney weren’t solved with a magic wand because that’s not real life), Remy’s work issues, Jason’s family problems, as well as his closeted status. “And just like that he understood why Remy was afraid to commit to someone who wasn’t living openly.” I loved that Remy never pressures Jason and that Jason has to come to terms with things in his own way.
It’s a holiday story, a enemies to lovers story and a coming out story that was light and enjoyable.
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
Remy is newly out of a relationship where he was called “boring and predictable” and his boyfriend cheated on him so he’s a little bit fragile. At times, he isn’t up for the harassment of Jason. Jason wants Remy, wants him for more than just sex but wants him totally. The biggest problem is he is so terrified of losing the only real family he has, the Wells. His own parents are lost in grief over a daughter who died years ago, his father drowning himself in work and his mother drowning herself in alcohol. Jason just can’t take a chance on being unwelcome with his chosen family.
After a bit of miscommunication and rejection, Jason and Remy are at odds again. But the two are definitely attracted and so they go into a “holiday fling only” situation, which we all know tends to backfire. Jason is a firefighter and he’s always felt a little less intellectual than the Wells’ family but I liked how the family didn’t agree with that assessment.
So continues the story of Jason and Remy and their holiday fling. They have a lot to overcome – the possible loss of Jason’s surrogate family, Derek acting like a massive jerk (and I loved that his troubles with Courtney weren’t solved with a magic wand because that’s not real life), Remy’s work issues, Jason’s family problems, as well as his closeted status. “And just like that he understood why Remy was afraid to commit to someone who wasn’t living openly.” I loved that Remy never pressures Jason and that Jason has to come to terms with things in his own way.
It’s a holiday story, a enemies to lovers story and a coming out story that was light and enjoyable.
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
December 11, 2017
As a first time reader of D.J. Jamison's work, this was the perfect book as an introduction. I have put all of her books on my TBR list and I'm hoping that those giftcards I'm bound to get for Christmas will be put to good use.
I really enjoyed the way Remy and Jason picked at each other from the very beginning and throughout. It was playful teasing and not meant to hurt. It no doubt started out as brotherly chirping but that spark of attraction changed the meaning behind those teasing words. Remy was bold and apologetically himself. Jason, had the fear that so many people have when they aren't out to their family and friends, all he could think about was losing them. It was written in a way that was believable.
When Jason and Remy finally gave in, holy smokes ya'll. Like, *fans self*. It was so good. It made my heart race, and my breath caught. I was invested in these two. I wanted to shake them at times because, well, you'll see.
I was not a fan of Remy's older brother. That man there. Oh, there are people that you immediately get a bad vibe from. Well he's one of those people for me and I was one hundred percent right about him.
This book had it all. Romance, sex, emotion, family, excitement and the holidays. You can't go wrong picking this book up and giving it a read. Just don't let the cover influence your decision. Just ignore that LOL.
I really enjoyed the way Remy and Jason picked at each other from the very beginning and throughout. It was playful teasing and not meant to hurt. It no doubt started out as brotherly chirping but that spark of attraction changed the meaning behind those teasing words. Remy was bold and apologetically himself. Jason, had the fear that so many people have when they aren't out to their family and friends, all he could think about was losing them. It was written in a way that was believable.
When Jason and Remy finally gave in, holy smokes ya'll. Like, *fans self*. It was so good. It made my heart race, and my breath caught. I was invested in these two. I wanted to shake them at times because, well, you'll see.
I was not a fan of Remy's older brother. That man there. Oh, there are people that you immediately get a bad vibe from. Well he's one of those people for me and I was one hundred percent right about him.
This book had it all. Romance, sex, emotion, family, excitement and the holidays. You can't go wrong picking this book up and giving it a read. Just don't let the cover influence your decision. Just ignore that LOL.
April 4, 2023
My first DJ book but if that's the sort of story I can expect, it won't be my last.
A super cute frenemies to lovers story that will make you melt.
Adorable.
A super cute frenemies to lovers story that will make you melt.
Adorable.
January 3, 2018
I guess I’m still in the mood for some holiday love. This was a sweet frenemies turned lovers story. Not a whole lot of drama. Just learning trust and love.
September 2, 2024
Sweet
I’m overdosing on sweet Christmas stories and this one fit in perfectly. Frenemy to lovers, brother's best friend tropes were well done.
I’m overdosing on sweet Christmas stories and this one fit in perfectly. Frenemy to lovers, brother's best friend tropes were well done.
December 24, 2024
story of Remy and Jason
This is a brother’s best friend to more holiday novella romance, featuring Jason Hendricks and Remy Wells, and is a standalone novella.
Remy and Jason have known each other most of their lives, ever since Jason became best friends with Remy’s brother Derek. They have both had a crush of each other for years but cover it up with pranks and riling each other up. Until one thanksgiving, they have to share a room and the hidden attraction boils over into something physical.
This book is pretty low angst but there is a lot of resisting feelings for most of the book. Poor Jason wanted a relationship but Remy didn’t want to because he was scared Is getting hurt. Jason didn’t feel like he was worthy of Remy because he didn’t think he was smart enough, that kind of broke my heart a little. They both had their hang ups and they kept them apart.
I was happy when they got their HEA.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone novella
MM holiday romance
Brother’s best friend
Frenemies to more
Firefighter x Digital marketing
Both crushing hard
Neurodivergent rep
Hurt / Comfort
Holiday hook ups
Resisting feelings
Coming out
HEA
This is a brother’s best friend to more holiday novella romance, featuring Jason Hendricks and Remy Wells, and is a standalone novella.
Remy and Jason have known each other most of their lives, ever since Jason became best friends with Remy’s brother Derek. They have both had a crush of each other for years but cover it up with pranks and riling each other up. Until one thanksgiving, they have to share a room and the hidden attraction boils over into something physical.
This book is pretty low angst but there is a lot of resisting feelings for most of the book. Poor Jason wanted a relationship but Remy didn’t want to because he was scared Is getting hurt. Jason didn’t feel like he was worthy of Remy because he didn’t think he was smart enough, that kind of broke my heart a little. They both had their hang ups and they kept them apart.
I was happy when they got their HEA.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone novella
MM holiday romance
Brother’s best friend
Frenemies to more
Firefighter x Digital marketing
Both crushing hard
Neurodivergent rep
Hurt / Comfort
Holiday hook ups
Resisting feelings
Coming out
HEA
July 29, 2020
Enemy to lovers?
Not very certain whether this is an enemies to lovers kind of plot. They fought and pranked each other a lot but it was emphasised repeatedly it was due to admiration and adoration. Something that I find sweet but lack thereof. It doesn't have the boom factor that really engage me in. The holiday vibe was weak despite its self explanatory title.Both MCs are childhood friends and have feelings for each other since young.. young meaning since they were children? I got a bit weirded out by that. Derek's story annoyed me as well. But then the author did a good save in the end. Basically I enjoyed the start and the end of the storyline.
Not very certain whether this is an enemies to lovers kind of plot. They fought and pranked each other a lot but it was emphasised repeatedly it was due to admiration and adoration. Something that I find sweet but lack thereof. It doesn't have the boom factor that really engage me in. The holiday vibe was weak despite its self explanatory title.Both MCs are childhood friends and have feelings for each other since young.. young meaning since they were children? I got a bit weirded out by that. Derek's story annoyed me as well. But then the author did a good save in the end. Basically I enjoyed the start and the end of the storyline.
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