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Holiday Sparks
He’ll make her holiday merry…and hot.
Darcy Tucker hates Christmas. As a department store supervisor, she deals with the dark side of the holiday season. Santa isn’t real, no, she doesn’t have any more Betty Fofetti dolls in stock, and no freaking way can she extend that sale.
All she wants is to get to the day after Christmas. Fa-la-la-not.
She can’t even escape it at home. Her neighbor, tall, muscled tattoo artist Ben Hartley, loves the holiday, enough to—shudder—decorate her front lawn. Ben doesn’t seem like he should be jolly, but if the big belt fits…
He’s also the only one she can turn to when she runs into trouble at the store. Trapped together working on an important project, he’s determined to show her all she’s missed out on when it comes to the season of giving.
And receiving. So much receiving.
Now she’s looking at her own six-foot-plus tattooed Christmas miracle, and she’s ready to unwrap him under the tree…
Author’s note: Holiday Sparks was previously published by Taryn Elliott and it has been lightly re-edited.
Darcy Tucker hates Christmas. As a department store supervisor, she deals with the dark side of the holiday season. Santa isn’t real, no, she doesn’t have any more Betty Fofetti dolls in stock, and no freaking way can she extend that sale.
All she wants is to get to the day after Christmas. Fa-la-la-not.
She can’t even escape it at home. Her neighbor, tall, muscled tattoo artist Ben Hartley, loves the holiday, enough to—shudder—decorate her front lawn. Ben doesn’t seem like he should be jolly, but if the big belt fits…
He’s also the only one she can turn to when she runs into trouble at the store. Trapped together working on an important project, he’s determined to show her all she’s missed out on when it comes to the season of giving.
And receiving. So much receiving.
Now she’s looking at her own six-foot-plus tattooed Christmas miracle, and she’s ready to unwrap him under the tree…
Author’s note: Holiday Sparks was previously published by Taryn Elliott and it has been lightly re-edited.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2012
759 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Taryn Elliott
70 books1,066 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Taryn Elliott has made it her mission in life to get as many rockstar stories out of her head and onto the page as possible. Sometimes a hot suited dude makes an appearance, and maybe a wine expert or six. She comes from upstate NY and falls in love with every hero as she writes him. As a bonus there’s always an eclectic soundtrack to match.
She's also the other half of the Rocker Reads duo, Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott. And one half of Taryn Quinn, who writes steamy small town romantic comedies (among other things.)
She loves to hear from her readers and is on most social media platforms. You can find all her links at https://quinnandelliott.com or email her at taryncari(at)quinnandelliott.com.
She's also the other half of the Rocker Reads duo, Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott. And one half of Taryn Quinn, who writes steamy small town romantic comedies (among other things.)
She loves to hear from her readers and is on most social media platforms. You can find all her links at https://quinnandelliott.com or email her at taryncari(at)quinnandelliott.com.
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Blurb:
He’ll make her holiday merry…and hot.
Darcy Tucker hates Christmas. As a department store supervisor, she deals with the dark side of the holiday season. Santa isn’t real, no, she doesn’t have any more Betty Fofetti dolls in stock, and no freaking way can she extend that sale.
All she wants is to get to the day after Christmas. Fa-la-la-not.
She can’t even escape it at home. Her neighbor, tall, muscled tattoo artist Ben Hartley, loves the holiday, enough to—shudder—decorate her front lawn. Ben doesn’t seem like he should be jolly, but if the big belt fits…
He’s also the only one she can turn to when she runs into trouble at the store. Trapped together working on an important project, he’s determined to show her all she’s missed out on when it comes to the season of giving.
And receiving. So much receiving.
Now she’s looking at her own six-foot-plus tattooed Christmas miracle, and she’s ready to unwrap him under the tree…
Blurb:
He’ll make her holiday merry…and hot.
Darcy Tucker hates Christmas. As a department store supervisor, she deals with the dark side of the holiday season. Santa isn’t real, no, she doesn’t have any more Betty Fofetti dolls in stock, and no freaking way can she extend that sale.
All she wants is to get to the day after Christmas. Fa-la-la-not.
She can’t even escape it at home. Her neighbor, tall, muscled tattoo artist Ben Hartley, loves the holiday, enough to—shudder—decorate her front lawn. Ben doesn’t seem like he should be jolly, but if the big belt fits…
He’s also the only one she can turn to when she runs into trouble at the store. Trapped together working on an important project, he’s determined to show her all she’s missed out on when it comes to the season of giving.
And receiving. So much receiving.
Now she’s looking at her own six-foot-plus tattooed Christmas miracle, and she’s ready to unwrap him under the tree…
November 22, 2017
I think there is nothing better than curling up in front of the fire with a nice steaming cup of hot coco and a good book, so for me this was a great way to start the holidays.
The chemistry between Ben and Darcy was great even though there was a major secret between them this story had very little angst and flowed nicely. I loved Ben's niece, the young girl really spoke her mind and was truly adorable.
You can see my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...
The chemistry between Ben and Darcy was great even though there was a major secret between them this story had very little angst and flowed nicely. I loved Ben's niece, the young girl really spoke her mind and was truly adorable.
You can see my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...
December 19, 2012
4.5 Star review
Holiday Sparks by Taryn Elliott is sure to put a spark and sizzle in your holiday reading this season.
Darcy Tucker a.k.a Ms. Scrooge can’t stand Christmas or anything festive. Her family never quite celebrated Christmas growing up and her job as a lead supervisor at a department store pretty much sealed the deal.
Ben Hartley is Christmas personified; when Darcy comes homes after a rather rough and disastrous day at work to find her tenant Ben has turned their duplex into a neighborhood Christmas sound and light show, she totally flips out and let’s loose on Ben.
But when Darcy’s holiday display at the department store is demolished putting her promotion in jeopardy she decides to eat humble pie and ask Ben for help. As Ben and Darcy are forced to spend time together decorating the store, the sparks between them really start to fly. That KISS, oh that kiss under the Christmas tree is one Smokin’ Hot, toe curling kiss! that jump starts their relationship in high gear :)
I really liked all the secondary characters in this book, especially the interactions between Ben and his niece. Might I say Ben was such a hottie! I really enjoy Taryn’s writing; the dialogues are always witty, snarky and fun to read and the stories smexy.
Holiday Sparks is one steamy hot holiday romance, a perfect read to warm you up on a cold winter’s day!
Holiday Sparks by Taryn Elliott is sure to put a spark and sizzle in your holiday reading this season.
Darcy Tucker a.k.a Ms. Scrooge can’t stand Christmas or anything festive. Her family never quite celebrated Christmas growing up and her job as a lead supervisor at a department store pretty much sealed the deal.
Ben Hartley is Christmas personified; when Darcy comes homes after a rather rough and disastrous day at work to find her tenant Ben has turned their duplex into a neighborhood Christmas sound and light show, she totally flips out and let’s loose on Ben.
But when Darcy’s holiday display at the department store is demolished putting her promotion in jeopardy she decides to eat humble pie and ask Ben for help. As Ben and Darcy are forced to spend time together decorating the store, the sparks between them really start to fly. That KISS, oh that kiss under the Christmas tree is one Smokin’ Hot, toe curling kiss! that jump starts their relationship in high gear :)
I really liked all the secondary characters in this book, especially the interactions between Ben and his niece. Might I say Ben was such a hottie! I really enjoy Taryn’s writing; the dialogues are always witty, snarky and fun to read and the stories smexy.
Holiday Sparks is one steamy hot holiday romance, a perfect read to warm you up on a cold winter’s day!
December 23, 2012
Taryn Elliott has written another great story with relatable characters, witty dialogue, hot sex scenes and an adorable scene stealing child. The heroine, Darcy, hates Christmas and anything that has to do with it, especially since she works in retail. After a horrible day she is livid when she comes home to Christmas lighting, decorations and music adorning her duplex thanks to her tenant, Ben who loves Christmas. I adored sexy tattoo artist, Ben who had his work cut out for him in trying to lighten up workaholic Darcy around the holidays. Who could resist this fun loving guy? Darcy couldn't but it 'twas not easy and I wanted to shake her at times and tell her what a great guy Ben was. I loved his interaction with his eight year old niece who was just adorable and stole the scenes she was in. I also liked Darcy's friendship with co-worker Jaime who was her only confidante and advice giver about Ben and manager from hell, Miriam. We got a quick glimpse of Ben's best friend, Cesar whom I hope gets his own story in the future. I loved this story and reading Holiday Sparks was a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
March 3, 2015
Its not a thrilling or insightful read. I mean, Darcy just seems so unreal and fictional. I get that's its fiction, but there's gotta be a way to connect with the characters in a good story no matter how fictional or unbelievable. Bottom line, it was a boring book, not worth the time.
November 20, 2017
When Darcy Tucker’s store Christmas display is damaged by an irate customer, she finds help from an unlikely source – her tenant. An avowed lover of all things holiday related, Ben Hartley, her rugged, handsome tattoo artist next door neighbor had already set up some holiday decorations on her property, something she’d not been very enthusiastic about as Christmas in the retail industry, and with her personal history was her least favorite time of the year. Ben helps her out in the store, and with her current dryspell in the sack with his sweet and sexy ways. But can a bit of holiday cheer lead to a lifelong romance?
If you’re looking for a fun, Chistmas themed romantic comedy with a sexy spark, this one will do quite nicely. The characters are both very appealing, with Darcy being a weary retail employee intent on promotion and Ben as a down to earth good guy with a sweet spot for his neighbor. They share some very sexy scenes together, and have to deal with some interesting family complications as the story unfolds. The conflict is a believable one, leading to a delightful happy ending for this likable couple. It's an entertaining and steamy romance that will leave you with a smile.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the authors for review.
If you’re looking for a fun, Chistmas themed romantic comedy with a sexy spark, this one will do quite nicely. The characters are both very appealing, with Darcy being a weary retail employee intent on promotion and Ben as a down to earth good guy with a sweet spot for his neighbor. They share some very sexy scenes together, and have to deal with some interesting family complications as the story unfolds. The conflict is a believable one, leading to a delightful happy ending for this likable couple. It's an entertaining and steamy romance that will leave you with a smile.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the authors for review.
December 12, 2020
Holiday Sparks by Taryn Quinn was once again another surprisingly adorable Christmas romance.
I liked the switch. Usually the grump is the male but in this story, Ben loves Christmas and Darcy hates it. She is a manager at a department store and loathes the holiday, while Ben, her tenant, loves everything about it. Ben steps up to help her salvage a Christmas tree oopsie at the store and sparks literally fly between them.
Darcy is a bit cynical and closed off while Ben is sweet and outgoing. Eventually his cheer begins to break down her walls and y'all, some sensual AF scenes happen between them. Usually I say "hot AF" but no, these scenes were super damn sensual and sexy.
I loved the story, the Christmas cheer, the little bit of angst, and the depth of emotion found within this short novel. Ben and Darcy were PERFECT.
November 21, 2017
I typically do not like the holidays. Not that I'm bah humbug, it's just there is so much to do and see and ... well you know. I love reading about the holidays though - especially quick and easy reads. Holiday Sparks by Taryn Quinn perfectly fit the quick and easy holiday genre and made me smile throughout.
Darcy works retail and hates Christmas. Ben is a tattoo artist who LOVES Christmas and all it entails. He also happens to rent one side of the house Darcy owns. The chemistry between Darcy and Ben was SMOKING HOT and their banter made me chuckle. Was there a little angst? Of course there was! Were there sexy scenes that made me pretend to blush? Of course there was! Was there holiday spirit throughout the story to help get me in the mood for the upcoming season? You bet!!
From beginning to end this story held my attention and I didn’t skim at all. I absolutely recommend this story by Taryn Quinn.
Darcy works retail and hates Christmas. Ben is a tattoo artist who LOVES Christmas and all it entails. He also happens to rent one side of the house Darcy owns. The chemistry between Darcy and Ben was SMOKING HOT and their banter made me chuckle. Was there a little angst? Of course there was! Were there sexy scenes that made me pretend to blush? Of course there was! Was there holiday spirit throughout the story to help get me in the mood for the upcoming season? You bet!!
From beginning to end this story held my attention and I didn’t skim at all. I absolutely recommend this story by Taryn Quinn.
November 26, 2017
I'm not a huge fan of holiday books, but a few usually get through my hard candy shell and make me smile. Holiday Sparks is one of those books. I think it might be because I identify with Darcy, but I don't think that's the entire reason.
Of course, the main reason this story is awesome is the Taryn Quinn factor. The girls are amazeballs, and they've taken this older book and refined it slightly to make it more adorable and fun.
So let's talk about the leads.
Darcy has HAD it with the holiday season. Working retail will do that to a person. Being a manager and having to deal with unruly customers, frustrating employees, and a demanding boss. It doesn't help when she gets home and sees that her Christmas has vomited on her house. It's the last straw on a truly terrible day.
Her tenant, Ben Hartley is the perpetrator of the sneak attack of lights and Christmas accoutrements. He doesn't understand why Darcy is so upset about the display, the neighborhood was delighted that her house was finally being decorated for the holiday season. He agreed to take it down, but he couldn't explain how hot it was to see his landlord's fiery temper.
When Darcy needs to swallow her pride and ask Ben for help at the store, he has no trouble with it. He can't tell her the real reason he agrees, but he wouldn't have said no anyway. Once they're together in the store working closely together, the Holiday Sparks fly!
Not only is this story heartwarming, it's funny, and smart. It's a quick little holiday read, so if you're in for that sort of thing, you'll absolutely love it. I recommend this to anyone. Like, ANYONE.
I give this 4.5 Meatball Grinder Stars.
December 13, 2020
This is a perfect December/Christmas read. It's 175 pages, so of you need a quick read for your yearly challenge pick this up (free on kindle unlimited)
Dacry a workaholic hates Christmas, Ben her hot neighbor, and regular Clark Griswald of xmas lights loves it. When the tree at Darcy's department store gets trashed, she's desperate and asks him to help re-decorate. He agrees, and then finds out he's connected to the guy who trashed the store...
Likable characters, a decent story, and good sex scenes, also ends with a HEA.
Dacry a workaholic hates Christmas, Ben her hot neighbor, and regular Clark Griswald of xmas lights loves it. When the tree at Darcy's department store gets trashed, she's desperate and asks him to help re-decorate. He agrees, and then finds out he's connected to the guy who trashed the store...
Likable characters, a decent story, and good sex scenes, also ends with a HEA.
November 10, 2013
I was in the mood to get into the holiday spirit and have been meaning to read Taryn Elliott's book, Holiday Sparks. I am so glad I had this at the ready. A quick read with a sexy opposites attract plot made for an excellent read.
Darcy is a straight-laced woman driven by her work. Because she works in retail, her hatred for the holidays is strong! So when a work fiasco forces her to decorate the store for Christmas, the sparks really do start to fly. Why? Namely, Ben! This tall, dark and handsome tattoo artist adores Christmas and has amazing talent putting blinking lights to music. He is going to try and save the day for Darcy, but not before he gets a little hot and bothered by this career-driven woman.
Even though this was a shorter book, the storyline was complete and Darcy and Ben had plenty of time to discover each other as well as deal with real-life barriers. In typical Elliott fashion, the sexy time was hot and didn't disappoint.
Now, I am off to decorate my house and see if I can get my blinking lights set to "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree".
A- (4 1/2 stars)
Review copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Darcy is a straight-laced woman driven by her work. Because she works in retail, her hatred for the holidays is strong! So when a work fiasco forces her to decorate the store for Christmas, the sparks really do start to fly. Why? Namely, Ben! This tall, dark and handsome tattoo artist adores Christmas and has amazing talent putting blinking lights to music. He is going to try and save the day for Darcy, but not before he gets a little hot and bothered by this career-driven woman.
Even though this was a shorter book, the storyline was complete and Darcy and Ben had plenty of time to discover each other as well as deal with real-life barriers. In typical Elliott fashion, the sexy time was hot and didn't disappoint.
Now, I am off to decorate my house and see if I can get my blinking lights set to "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree".
A- (4 1/2 stars)
Review copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2012
Take a time-out from the bustle of the holidays. You need to give yourself the gift of ‘Holiday Sparks.’ Don’t worry, you won’t be needing a cup of hot chocolate to keep you warm. Darcy and Ben generate enough heat to melt an eight-foot snowman.
Funny? Laugh-out-loud style. Real characters you can sink your emotions into? Another yup. Heartstrings pulled? Taryn played mine like a flamenco guitar, baby.
Decking the halls now has a whole new (and naughty ~ sorry, Santa) set of images running through my head. So does Elvis’s ‘Blue Christmas.’ Now, where can I get a setup like Ben designed…?
Funny? Laugh-out-loud style. Real characters you can sink your emotions into? Another yup. Heartstrings pulled? Taryn played mine like a flamenco guitar, baby.
Decking the halls now has a whole new (and naughty ~ sorry, Santa) set of images running through my head. So does Elvis’s ‘Blue Christmas.’ Now, where can I get a setup like Ben designed…?
December 26, 2012
HOLIDAY SPARKS!
damn, where can i find a guy like Ben in this world? LOL i wish he exist!
well, lucky for Darcy to have a tenant as hot as hell, as sexy as sex god, as charming as a prince and as an awesome tattoo artist! GOSH! Ben is indeed what a girl can ask for. he's not into money. as long as he's happy on what does then he's contented. i just wanted to say... I SUPER ENVY DARCY TUCKER. gosh! it leaves me speechless. i want to read it all over again!
oh oh oh Ben, marry me please! :))
damn, where can i find a guy like Ben in this world? LOL i wish he exist!
well, lucky for Darcy to have a tenant as hot as hell, as sexy as sex god, as charming as a prince and as an awesome tattoo artist! GOSH! Ben is indeed what a girl can ask for. he's not into money. as long as he's happy on what does then he's contented. i just wanted to say... I SUPER ENVY DARCY TUCKER. gosh! it leaves me speechless. i want to read it all over again!
oh oh oh Ben, marry me please! :))
December 31, 2012
4.5 scandaliciously steamy hot stars!
Lordy be, lordy be that Ben needs to wear a mistletoe belt year round. That man is delicious and look at that cover - are you kidding me with that cover?!!?
Follow this link to my complete Scandalicious Book Review:
http://www.scandaliciousbookreviews.c...
Lordy be, lordy be that Ben needs to wear a mistletoe belt year round. That man is delicious and look at that cover - are you kidding me with that cover?!!?
Follow this link to my complete Scandalicious Book Review:
http://www.scandaliciousbookreviews.c...
February 20, 2019
Ben and Darcy had chemistry, and when they came together it was pretty hot. I think this one was missing the humor side of things that I though I was going to get when I saw it was supposed to be a Romantic Comedy.
It was more on the serious side to me instead of the light fluffiness I was expecting. Still it was worth the read and I will definitely read more by this author.
It was more on the serious side to me instead of the light fluffiness I was expecting. Still it was worth the read and I will definitely read more by this author.
December 25, 2017
3 stars
Synopsis: Darcy is a supervisor at a department store, and as such, really dislikes Christmas. She puts in long hours, feels unappreciated, but thinks that it will all be worth it when she gets a promotion. One day, a man tries to return a used bicycle, and when he is told no, throws (rolls) the bicycle in to the Christmas tree display that is up. After dealing with the aftermath of that, Darcy heads home to find that her tenant on the other half of the duplex has put up Christmas displays, along with music. That's the last straw for Darcy, and she demands that he takes everything down the next day. However, when she gets to work and finds out that her boss has put her in charge of setting up the Christmas display before the owners (the boss's parents) arrive the next day, Darcy asks her neighbour for help.
Ben likes the look of his landlord, until she craps all over his decorations. But when she asks him to work on the Christmas display at her department store the next day, and the perpetrator of the Christmas display demise sounds like his brother, Ben agrees. He loves the decorations and the general feeling that comes around at Christmas. As Ben works to set up the lights and the music for the store, he gets to work closely with Darcy, which isn't a hardship for him.
What I liked: Ben was loving and understanding, although he kept the knowledge that his brother was the person who vandalized the Christmas display secret for far too long. Even though the initial relationship contact happened really quickly, there was actually time in the story for them to get to know one another, so it didn't seem quite so insta-love as it might have otherwise.
What I didn't like: while I get that working in a department store is bad, especially during the holidays, I just can't understand what would make Darcy dislike them so much, especially since it didn't seem as though her co-workers didn't necessarily feel the same way. And Darcy also used the excuse that, when she was growing up, her mother had to work, so there weren't a lot of decorations, and it was just them for Christmas. I'm sorry: your mother was there for Christmas and made an effort, even though she didn't have a lot of money or time, and you remember those times as horrible Christmases? Also, the fact that Darcy, a supervisor, used the phrase "calm down" to an irate customer just blew my mind. That is HR/Customer Service Relations 101: NEVER use that phrase. And she didn't get him away to a quieter area, leaving this to take place in front of other customers!!!. If I were her boss, she would definitely be getting updates in Consumer Relations. So, the gross incompetence of a supervisor kind of pulled me out of the story.
Synopsis: Darcy is a supervisor at a department store, and as such, really dislikes Christmas. She puts in long hours, feels unappreciated, but thinks that it will all be worth it when she gets a promotion. One day, a man tries to return a used bicycle, and when he is told no, throws (rolls) the bicycle in to the Christmas tree display that is up. After dealing with the aftermath of that, Darcy heads home to find that her tenant on the other half of the duplex has put up Christmas displays, along with music. That's the last straw for Darcy, and she demands that he takes everything down the next day. However, when she gets to work and finds out that her boss has put her in charge of setting up the Christmas display before the owners (the boss's parents) arrive the next day, Darcy asks her neighbour for help.
Ben likes the look of his landlord, until she craps all over his decorations. But when she asks him to work on the Christmas display at her department store the next day, and the perpetrator of the Christmas display demise sounds like his brother, Ben agrees. He loves the decorations and the general feeling that comes around at Christmas. As Ben works to set up the lights and the music for the store, he gets to work closely with Darcy, which isn't a hardship for him.
What I liked: Ben was loving and understanding, although he kept the knowledge that his brother was the person who vandalized the Christmas display secret for far too long. Even though the initial relationship contact happened really quickly, there was actually time in the story for them to get to know one another, so it didn't seem quite so insta-love as it might have otherwise.
What I didn't like: while I get that working in a department store is bad, especially during the holidays, I just can't understand what would make Darcy dislike them so much, especially since it didn't seem as though her co-workers didn't necessarily feel the same way. And Darcy also used the excuse that, when she was growing up, her mother had to work, so there weren't a lot of decorations, and it was just them for Christmas. I'm sorry: your mother was there for Christmas and made an effort, even though she didn't have a lot of money or time, and you remember those times as horrible Christmases? Also, the fact that Darcy, a supervisor, used the phrase "calm down" to an irate customer just blew my mind. That is HR/Customer Service Relations 101: NEVER use that phrase. And she didn't get him away to a quieter area, leaving this to take place in front of other customers!!!. If I were her boss, she would definitely be getting updates in Consumer Relations. So, the gross incompetence of a supervisor kind of pulled me out of the story.
November 20, 2017
Darcy Tucker hates Christmas, especially since she works in a department store which seems to bring out the worst in everyone. When her Christmas display is destroyed by an irate customer she has had enough just to come home and see that Christmas has "thrown up" all over house thanks to her tenant.
Ben Hartley is a tattoo artist with a huge love of Christmas. He rents half of a duplex from Darcy and decides to spread the Christmas cheer by decorating the place.
After Darcy yells at Ben for his display she soon discovers that she needs his help with her display at work. Will Ben help Darcy and convince her that Christmas is not all that bad after all? Will Darcy allow herself to let Ben in and find some happiness? But when Darcy discovers a secret that Ben has been keeping will she find herself lonely at Christmas again?
This was a great book about finding the love of Christmas and allowing yourself some happiness.
As someone who works in retail I can completely understand why Darcy hates the holidays and how it truly seems to bring out the worst in people. When her display is destroyed I can understand why she was done with everything and feeling so frustrated by the time she got home.
It is clear though that Darcy had relationship issues and that she was married to her job in order not to get hurt and make sure she was financially stable due to what she went through as a child. I was kind of curious to see what was going to happen with her and one of the "creepy" guys she worked with and see if he tried to get in the way.
Ben was awesome and I really liked that he knew what he wanted from the start and really went for it, even though he didn't know if he even stood a chance or not. He worked super hard at the store and I loved how creative he was and how he got everything perfect.
There were a couple parts that I was expecting because of the way Darcy was with her work but the two had super chemistry so I knew things would try and be sorted through. I wondered how the big secret would come out and I loved how mature Darcy was about everything!!
Great book to get you in the Christmas spirit!
Ben Hartley is a tattoo artist with a huge love of Christmas. He rents half of a duplex from Darcy and decides to spread the Christmas cheer by decorating the place.
After Darcy yells at Ben for his display she soon discovers that she needs his help with her display at work. Will Ben help Darcy and convince her that Christmas is not all that bad after all? Will Darcy allow herself to let Ben in and find some happiness? But when Darcy discovers a secret that Ben has been keeping will she find herself lonely at Christmas again?
This was a great book about finding the love of Christmas and allowing yourself some happiness.
As someone who works in retail I can completely understand why Darcy hates the holidays and how it truly seems to bring out the worst in people. When her display is destroyed I can understand why she was done with everything and feeling so frustrated by the time she got home.
It is clear though that Darcy had relationship issues and that she was married to her job in order not to get hurt and make sure she was financially stable due to what she went through as a child. I was kind of curious to see what was going to happen with her and one of the "creepy" guys she worked with and see if he tried to get in the way.
Ben was awesome and I really liked that he knew what he wanted from the start and really went for it, even though he didn't know if he even stood a chance or not. He worked super hard at the store and I loved how creative he was and how he got everything perfect.
There were a couple parts that I was expecting because of the way Darcy was with her work but the two had super chemistry so I knew things would try and be sorted through. I wondered how the big secret would come out and I loved how mature Darcy was about everything!!
Great book to get you in the Christmas spirit!
November 26, 2017
Darcy Tucker hates Christmas, especially since she works in a department store which seems to bring out the worst in everyone. When her Christmas display is destroyed by an irate customer she has had enough just to come home and see that Christmas has "thrown up" all over house thanks to her tenant.
Ben Hartley is a tattoo artist with a huge love of Christmas. He rents half of a duplex from Darcy and decides to spread the Christmas cheer by decorating the place.
After Darcy yells at Ben for his display she soon discovers that she needs his help with her display at work. Will Ben help Darcy and convince her that Christmas is not all that bad after all? Will Darcy allow herself to let Ben in and find some happiness? But when Darcy discovers a secret that Ben has been keeping will she find herself lonely at Christmas again?
This was a great book about finding the love of Christmas and allowing yourself some happiness.
As someone who works in retail I can completely understand why Darcy hates the holidays and how it truly seems to bring out the worst in people. When her display is destroyed I can understand why she was done with everything and feeling so frustrated by the time she got home.
It is clear though that Darcy had relationship issues and that she was married to her job in order not to get hurt and make sure she was financially stable due to what she went through as a child. I was kind of curious to see what was going to happen with her and one of the "creepy" guys she worked with and see if he tried to get in the way.
Ben was awesome and I really liked that he knew what he wanted from the start and really went for it, even though he didn't know if he even stood a chance or not. He worked super hard at the store and I loved how creative he was and how he got everything perfect.
There were a couple parts that I was expecting because of the way Darcy was with her work but the two had super chemistry so I knew things would try and be sorted through. I wondered how the big secret would come out and I loved how mature Darcy was about everything!!
Great book to get you in the Christmas spirit!
Ben Hartley is a tattoo artist with a huge love of Christmas. He rents half of a duplex from Darcy and decides to spread the Christmas cheer by decorating the place.
After Darcy yells at Ben for his display she soon discovers that she needs his help with her display at work. Will Ben help Darcy and convince her that Christmas is not all that bad after all? Will Darcy allow herself to let Ben in and find some happiness? But when Darcy discovers a secret that Ben has been keeping will she find herself lonely at Christmas again?
This was a great book about finding the love of Christmas and allowing yourself some happiness.
As someone who works in retail I can completely understand why Darcy hates the holidays and how it truly seems to bring out the worst in people. When her display is destroyed I can understand why she was done with everything and feeling so frustrated by the time she got home.
It is clear though that Darcy had relationship issues and that she was married to her job in order not to get hurt and make sure she was financially stable due to what she went through as a child. I was kind of curious to see what was going to happen with her and one of the "creepy" guys she worked with and see if he tried to get in the way.
Ben was awesome and I really liked that he knew what he wanted from the start and really went for it, even though he didn't know if he even stood a chance or not. He worked super hard at the store and I loved how creative he was and how he got everything perfect.
There were a couple parts that I was expecting because of the way Darcy was with her work but the two had super chemistry so I knew things would try and be sorted through. I wondered how the big secret would come out and I loved how mature Darcy was about everything!!
Great book to get you in the Christmas spirit!
November 28, 2020
Ben Hartley & Darcy Tucker
Dual POV. Standalone (not currently connected to any of this author duo's other series). This story may have some of the most seductive steamy scenes I've read this Fall starting with Ben and Darcy's moment under the Christmas tree. I really enjoyed reading this couple's story.
Ben is definitely Santa to Darcy's Grinch. After a customer destroys a Christmas display at the store Darcy manages, she just wanted to go home and sleep for a few hours but Darcy's day just gets worse. Darcy arrives home to find the duplex she owns looking like Christmas vomited on it. After a brief chat with a neighbor gushing about the beautiful decorations, Darcy starts to take the decorations down. Ben, Darcy's formerly perfect tenant, comes out to find out why she's dismantling all of his work. When Ben finds out that Darcy hates Christmas he agrees to remove them the following day, satisfied Darcy goes inside to sleep. Overnight Darcy has a change of heart and in an uncharacteristic move decides to leave Ben a note not to remove all of the decorations. Darcy's boss tasks her with redecorating the damaged display in preparation for the hired Santa. Darcy quickly decides that Ben's dancing Christmas lights set to music would be just the thing to secure the promotion she wants. Once Darcy has permission to get help from a friend she goes to ask Ben for his help. Darcy and Ben have barely looked at each other until she decided to remove his decorations but things quickly heat up when Ben agrees to help only to quickly fizzle out over her work aspirations and his secret.
I'm so glad Ben and Darcy find their way. There's no engagement, marriage or babies but they are left in a very happy place with no cliffhanger.
I only found 2 possible typos so I'm not sure why several reviewers accuse this Christmas page turner as being full of errors. JP
Dual POV. Standalone (not currently connected to any of this author duo's other series). This story may have some of the most seductive steamy scenes I've read this Fall starting with Ben and Darcy's moment under the Christmas tree. I really enjoyed reading this couple's story.
Ben is definitely Santa to Darcy's Grinch. After a customer destroys a Christmas display at the store Darcy manages, she just wanted to go home and sleep for a few hours but Darcy's day just gets worse. Darcy arrives home to find the duplex she owns looking like Christmas vomited on it. After a brief chat with a neighbor gushing about the beautiful decorations, Darcy starts to take the decorations down. Ben, Darcy's formerly perfect tenant, comes out to find out why she's dismantling all of his work. When Ben finds out that Darcy hates Christmas he agrees to remove them the following day, satisfied Darcy goes inside to sleep. Overnight Darcy has a change of heart and in an uncharacteristic move decides to leave Ben a note not to remove all of the decorations. Darcy's boss tasks her with redecorating the damaged display in preparation for the hired Santa. Darcy quickly decides that Ben's dancing Christmas lights set to music would be just the thing to secure the promotion she wants. Once Darcy has permission to get help from a friend she goes to ask Ben for his help. Darcy and Ben have barely looked at each other until she decided to remove his decorations but things quickly heat up when Ben agrees to help only to quickly fizzle out over her work aspirations and his secret.
I'm so glad Ben and Darcy find their way. There's no engagement, marriage or babies but they are left in a very happy place with no cliffhanger.
I only found 2 possible typos so I'm not sure why several reviewers accuse this Christmas page turner as being full of errors. JP
November 21, 2017
This book was sent to me by the authors for an honest review. Usually when I read of their books, it takes me awhile to warm up to the female lead. However, I liked Darcy from the beginning and I think because I could relate to her in some ways. Darcy is a career oriented person who works in retail and has a strong dislike to Christmas. With Christmas shopping season fast approachng, she is glad that she only has to deal with the decorations and music while at work. After an incident at work destroys the main window Christmas display, Darcy is glad to go home to get away from it all. Much to her chagrin, her tenant and neighbor Ben has rocked out her house in Christmas spirit. She loses it and decides to take matters into her own hands. Ben is just sad that Darcy feels the way she does about the holiday season. He agrees to take down everything but when Darcy's job is on the line, she turns to Ben to help her out with his Christmas cheer. While working together, their chemistry takes off. They give into temptation but then Darcy doesn't know how to handle the morning after. Every time Ben feels like he is making a break through with her, she runs in the opposite direction. She finally lets her guard down enough to let him and promises not to run away anymore. When Darcy meets Ben's brother, she feels like she was used and cuts Ben out of her life because he was never honest with her. Ben pleads his case but to no avail. It wasn't until she realizes that she loves him and she is just being stubborn, she finally puts aside her pride goes to Ben. I really liked Ben and Darcy but as usual with their books, the endings always make me feel like there is more to the story.
November 23, 2017
I loved Holiday Sparks by Taryn Quinn! It’s a very enjoyable story, and especially to get you into the holiday spirit. This book centers around main characters Darcy and Ben, who are opposites in the best ways. Darcy is a supervisor at a large department store and as a result of having to deal with the craziness of retail during the holiday season, she absolutely hates Christmas. Ben is her tenant who lives in the other half of her duplex, is a tattoo artist, and embodies everything that Darcy loathes in the Christmas spirit.
At the start of the story, Darcy has had an exceptionally long day after a man came into her store wanting to return an obviously used bike and then flipped out and destroyed the department store’s huge tree display. When she gets home she then finds that Ben has decorated the outside of her house from top to bottom in over the top Christmas decorations. At her wits end, she insists that Ben take it all down. However, the next day she has a change of heart, especially when she is tasked with replacing the ruined decorations at her job. As a compromise she hires Ben to use his talent for holiday decorating and lighting to transform the store and improve her chances for a promotion. Little does she know that Ben may have ulterior motives for wanting to help Darcy fix up the store.
Ben and Darcy are a very likeable couple and Holiday Sparks is definitely worth a read! It is a relatively lighthearted story and a well-written stand-alone that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys romantic comedies with some tension and heat mixed in.
At the start of the story, Darcy has had an exceptionally long day after a man came into her store wanting to return an obviously used bike and then flipped out and destroyed the department store’s huge tree display. When she gets home she then finds that Ben has decorated the outside of her house from top to bottom in over the top Christmas decorations. At her wits end, she insists that Ben take it all down. However, the next day she has a change of heart, especially when she is tasked with replacing the ruined decorations at her job. As a compromise she hires Ben to use his talent for holiday decorating and lighting to transform the store and improve her chances for a promotion. Little does she know that Ben may have ulterior motives for wanting to help Darcy fix up the store.
Ben and Darcy are a very likeable couple and Holiday Sparks is definitely worth a read! It is a relatively lighthearted story and a well-written stand-alone that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys romantic comedies with some tension and heat mixed in.
November 20, 2017
Although billed as a romantic comedy, this story starts out a bit angsty. At first meeting I loved Ben, the Hero. I really enjoyed that he was the creative one in this duo,and it was demonstrated several times that a man could be hunky and sexy, as well as creative and artistic. There are touches of a very nice Ben in his relationship with Darcy, as well as with his niece and his compassion for his brother. However he threw out a few sexual comments that did squick me a bit early in their getting to know each other, especially while they were at her place of work.
Heroine Darcy has negative childhood associations and current adult stress regarding the holidays. Her compulsive need to succeed at work and resulting snarky behaviour to Ben made it hard to connect with her at the start of the story. Of course because this is a romance, she thaws (but only after a few snarky incidents) and finds she likes that Ben goes overboard in his decorating. It also helps that Ben helps her out of a bind by creating a WOW Christmas display at work.
At the start, it was hard to connect with them and imagine a potential for relationship that went beyond the physical, but by midway in the story I was enjoying their connection. Their trysts of course are very steamy, however their relationship develops and the ending is absolutely adorable and very romantic.
Because the story is short it felt like it rushed to sex and love too quickly, but the sex was steamy and the ending was romantic and lovely. Final Rating: 3.5 stars I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
Heroine Darcy has negative childhood associations and current adult stress regarding the holidays. Her compulsive need to succeed at work and resulting snarky behaviour to Ben made it hard to connect with her at the start of the story. Of course because this is a romance, she thaws (but only after a few snarky incidents) and finds she likes that Ben goes overboard in his decorating. It also helps that Ben helps her out of a bind by creating a WOW Christmas display at work.
At the start, it was hard to connect with them and imagine a potential for relationship that went beyond the physical, but by midway in the story I was enjoying their connection. Their trysts of course are very steamy, however their relationship develops and the ending is absolutely adorable and very romantic.
Because the story is short it felt like it rushed to sex and love too quickly, but the sex was steamy and the ending was romantic and lovely. Final Rating: 3.5 stars I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
November 24, 2017
This is a re-issue of a Taryn Elliot book under the new pen name Taryn Quinn. If you have read the previous version this one is pretty much the same. It's about Darcy Tucker, who is a manager for a retail store who also hates Christmas and everything that comes along with it. And Ben Hartley who is her tenant but also loves everything to do with Christmas. And I mean everything! There was an issue with a customer at her store and she needs his help to fix it so that she can not only keep her job but hopefully get a promotion. What happens from there is not only cute but HOT!
I really liked Darcy and Ben together. Darcy is repressed and has her own issues from her childhood that affect everything in her day to day life. Ben tries to live his life to the fullest and not only enjoy the little things but to make the best of the bad. They are absolutely opposites of each other but they offset each other so well and just fit in every way. Not just sexually but in everyday normal life. They compliment everything about each other. I loved this book from start to finish. It made me laugh, get a little hot, feel sad, and then cheer when they got their HEA! I really hope we see a book about Ben's brother along with his niece! They deserve to have a HEA too! Loved it!
I really liked Darcy and Ben together. Darcy is repressed and has her own issues from her childhood that affect everything in her day to day life. Ben tries to live his life to the fullest and not only enjoy the little things but to make the best of the bad. They are absolutely opposites of each other but they offset each other so well and just fit in every way. Not just sexually but in everyday normal life. They compliment everything about each other. I loved this book from start to finish. It made me laugh, get a little hot, feel sad, and then cheer when they got their HEA! I really hope we see a book about Ben's brother along with his niece! They deserve to have a HEA too! Loved it!
November 22, 2017
** I received an advanced copy and chose to review it **
* 100% spoiler-free review *
Taryn Quinn's books are always hot and steamy and Holiday Sparks delivered on the heat in spades! Darcy and Ben seriously had me fanning myself at times! As tenants they barely saw each other but when Ben comes to Darcy's rescue, these two formed one heck of an adorable couple! Darcy appeared uptight to the world but Ben was able to get her to let her hair down and drew out another side to her that was wild and carefree. And Ben..... swoon!!!! This hot, sexy and hulking tattoo artist was anything but gruff. His child-like awe and worship of all things Christmas was heartwarming and beautiful. He opened Darcy's eyes to the beauty of the season in so many ways. But don't let that giant teddy bear fool you---he is one heck of an alpha beast in the bedroom. Did I mention how hot this book is? (still fanning myself over here!)
Holiday Sparks is sexy, cute and tons of fun. You'll laugh and you'll swoon and you'll wish for your own Ben to show up under your Christmas tree (or Hanukkah bush as the case may be). Don't miss your chance to read this fabulous holiday story full of steam and love!
* 100% spoiler-free review *
Taryn Quinn's books are always hot and steamy and Holiday Sparks delivered on the heat in spades! Darcy and Ben seriously had me fanning myself at times! As tenants they barely saw each other but when Ben comes to Darcy's rescue, these two formed one heck of an adorable couple! Darcy appeared uptight to the world but Ben was able to get her to let her hair down and drew out another side to her that was wild and carefree. And Ben..... swoon!!!! This hot, sexy and hulking tattoo artist was anything but gruff. His child-like awe and worship of all things Christmas was heartwarming and beautiful. He opened Darcy's eyes to the beauty of the season in so many ways. But don't let that giant teddy bear fool you---he is one heck of an alpha beast in the bedroom. Did I mention how hot this book is? (still fanning myself over here!)
Holiday Sparks is sexy, cute and tons of fun. You'll laugh and you'll swoon and you'll wish for your own Ben to show up under your Christmas tree (or Hanukkah bush as the case may be). Don't miss your chance to read this fabulous holiday story full of steam and love!
November 20, 2017
A ruined Christmas display and a new tenant with a talent for creating spectacular lighting displays brings retail worker Darcy and tattoo artist Ben together in a delightful holiday story which definitely brought a smile to my face. A fun and sexy read, it was just the thing to put me in the holiday spirit. I loved Ben and it was refreshing to read about a guy who was so obviously excited for the holiday season, a romantic, loveable and caring man instead of a grumpy alpha trying to force his opinions on others. Don't get me wrong, Ben is no wimp and definitely no pushover. He knows what he wants and a certain scene under a Christmas tree was so hot and sweet it had me swooning! Darcy too is a caring person but she is married to her job and, possibly understandably, not enamoured by the holidays because of all the extra work it brings. Fortunately Ben is a determined character but will he be able to change her mind and bring some much needed joy to her life?
Low on angst, big on fun, laughter and sexy times, this is a smashing story, with a definite feel good theme.
Low on angst, big on fun, laughter and sexy times, this is a smashing story, with a definite feel good theme.
November 18, 2017
What a deliciously decadent way to slide into the Christmas season! Another delightful reason to pick up damned near any book by Taryn Quinn.
Darcy is a dedicated employee who is doing all she can to ensure her next move at the store is into a management position. To the extent that she really has no life and for all intent and purpose is married to her job. When a disgruntled customer comes in and destroys the holiday spirit set up around the store Darcy must find a way to solve the problem before the bosses come to town.
good thing her tenant knows how to decorate! She manages to convince Ben to come to her aid at the store and he does an amazing job. Good thing he loves Christmas! Now to convince Darcy that she does too.
The fun begins when they roll home together after working together at the store...sparks fly. Sometimes something or someone comes along that is too good to lose.
You've got to pick up this sweet treat for a sexy Christmas read.
Darcy is a dedicated employee who is doing all she can to ensure her next move at the store is into a management position. To the extent that she really has no life and for all intent and purpose is married to her job. When a disgruntled customer comes in and destroys the holiday spirit set up around the store Darcy must find a way to solve the problem before the bosses come to town.
good thing her tenant knows how to decorate! She manages to convince Ben to come to her aid at the store and he does an amazing job. Good thing he loves Christmas! Now to convince Darcy that she does too.
The fun begins when they roll home together after working together at the store...sparks fly. Sometimes something or someone comes along that is too good to lose.
You've got to pick up this sweet treat for a sexy Christmas read.
November 22, 2017
A really sweet, yet hot, Christmas story! Darcy's life revolves around the department store that she's worked at forever. She's hoping, one day she'll prove her worth and get a promotion to store manager. However, enter the holiday season and who enjoys the holiday season if they're working in a department store. She has no Christmas spirit. Enter her tenant, Ben. He loves Christmas! After an absolutely terrible day at the store, Darcy comes home to see that Ben has sprung Christmas all over the outside of her house! She loses it and demands he take it all down!
The next day things change and Darcy realizes that she needs Ben to help her decorate the store for the holiday season. Ben easily agrees and the sizzle begins. While Ben can be totally sweet and understanding, he also has a very hot side to him that brings the heat to the sheets (or other surfaces).
What a great Christmas story (even for those who don't have the spirit)!
The next day things change and Darcy realizes that she needs Ben to help her decorate the store for the holiday season. Ben easily agrees and the sizzle begins. While Ben can be totally sweet and understanding, he also has a very hot side to him that brings the heat to the sheets (or other surfaces).
What a great Christmas story (even for those who don't have the spirit)!
November 22, 2017
Unanswered Prayers Perhaps
This is a solid romantic comedy! I love that a tragic event brings together Darcy and Ben. It couldn’t be more perfect that he loves Christmas so much and she hates it with all her power. Together they embark on a journey of flirtation and lust with a Jolly Holy Christmas. I loved how Ben tore down Darcy’s walls and engulfed her with love and the joy of Christmas. If it wasn’t for his brother, then chances are Ben and Darcy would have never been. That is what I loved most about this book, a series of unfortunate events leads to happiness. When one opportunity shuts there is a greater one in opening the next door. I love that Taryn Quinn makes me laugh, smile, feel good and sexy at the same time. The witty repartee is awesome, you can always expect characters with sass and brains! It’s a feel good read that will make you happy! Pick it up and you surely won’t be disappointed!
This is a solid romantic comedy! I love that a tragic event brings together Darcy and Ben. It couldn’t be more perfect that he loves Christmas so much and she hates it with all her power. Together they embark on a journey of flirtation and lust with a Jolly Holy Christmas. I loved how Ben tore down Darcy’s walls and engulfed her with love and the joy of Christmas. If it wasn’t for his brother, then chances are Ben and Darcy would have never been. That is what I loved most about this book, a series of unfortunate events leads to happiness. When one opportunity shuts there is a greater one in opening the next door. I love that Taryn Quinn makes me laugh, smile, feel good and sexy at the same time. The witty repartee is awesome, you can always expect characters with sass and brains! It’s a feel good read that will make you happy! Pick it up and you surely won’t be disappointed!
November 23, 2017
What a deliciously decadent way to slide into the Christmas season! Another delightful reason to pick up damned near any book by Taryn Quinn.
Darcy is a dedicated employee who is doing all she can to ensure her next move at the store is into a management position. To the extent that she really has no life and for all intent and purpose is married to her job. When a disgruntled customer comes in and destroys the holiday spirit set up around the store Darcy must find a way to solve the problem before the bosses come to town.
good thing her tenant knows how to decorate! She manages to convince Ben to come to her aid at the store and he does an amazing job. Good thing he loves Christmas! Now to convince Darcy that she does too.
The fun begins when they roll home together after working together at the store...sparks fly. Sometimes something or someone comes along that is too good to lose.
You've got to pick up this sweet treat for a sexy Christmas read.
Darcy is a dedicated employee who is doing all she can to ensure her next move at the store is into a management position. To the extent that she really has no life and for all intent and purpose is married to her job. When a disgruntled customer comes in and destroys the holiday spirit set up around the store Darcy must find a way to solve the problem before the bosses come to town.
good thing her tenant knows how to decorate! She manages to convince Ben to come to her aid at the store and he does an amazing job. Good thing he loves Christmas! Now to convince Darcy that she does too.
The fun begins when they roll home together after working together at the store...sparks fly. Sometimes something or someone comes along that is too good to lose.
You've got to pick up this sweet treat for a sexy Christmas read.
November 23, 2017
Having worked in retail I can completely relate to Darcy and her dislike for the holidays, she also dislikes them because of her upbringing. As she finds out the holidays bring out the best and worst in people. So when Darcy's boss tells her she is responsible to fix the holiday display that an irate customer ruined she turns to her duplex buddy Ben.
Ben loves the holidays and as an artist he finds that he can express his joy in the holiday displays he puts together.
This story flows well with you seeing how having someone who enjoys something and can give you a new perspective. And when you open yourself up to the possibilities wonderful things can happen.
This is a good book to curl up on the couch under your favorite blanket with a glass of wine or hot tea. It will start the season out right.
I was given this book for an honest voluntary review.
Ben loves the holidays and as an artist he finds that he can express his joy in the holiday displays he puts together.
This story flows well with you seeing how having someone who enjoys something and can give you a new perspective. And when you open yourself up to the possibilities wonderful things can happen.
This is a good book to curl up on the couch under your favorite blanket with a glass of wine or hot tea. It will start the season out right.
I was given this book for an honest voluntary review.
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