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Dear Ruth
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2017 Advent Calendar collection Stocking Stuffers.
Dear Ruth,
I’m not in the mood for Christmas. After a romantic relationship went up in flames, I returned to my hometown in rural Kansas. Then my mother passed away. I’m really busy with my job as fire marshal—and now with my mother’s advice column, which I reluctantly took over. There’s a sexy newcomer down the street, a guy with a young daughter and an unfortunate disregard for fire safety. He seems to want to be friends, but that creates problems that may be too hot for me to handle. The last things I need right now are flammable holiday decorations and too much holiday food. How am I supposed to give good advice to others when I can’t seem to get my own life straight?
—Bah Humbug in Bailey Springs
Dear Ruth,
I’m not in the mood for Christmas. After a romantic relationship went up in flames, I returned to my hometown in rural Kansas. Then my mother passed away. I’m really busy with my job as fire marshal—and now with my mother’s advice column, which I reluctantly took over. There’s a sexy newcomer down the street, a guy with a young daughter and an unfortunate disregard for fire safety. He seems to want to be friends, but that creates problems that may be too hot for me to handle. The last things I need right now are flammable holiday decorations and too much holiday food. How am I supposed to give good advice to others when I can’t seem to get my own life straight?
—Bah Humbug in Bailey Springs
52 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
About the author
Kim Fielding
183 books1,308 followersKim Fielding lives in Oregon and travels as often as she can manage. A professor by day, at night she rushes into a phone booth to change into her author costume (which involves comfy clothes instead of Spandex and is, sadly, lacking a cape). Her superpowers include the ability to write nearly anywhere, often while simultaneously doling out assistance to her family. Her favorite word to describe herself is "eclectic" and she finally got that seventh tattoo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
December 14, 2017
Unicorn Gang Bang Jizzmas Review!
You have one of those authors that every time you read something by them you feel a sense of relief that someone (ANYONE!) else shares your perceptions of the world? Maybe even makes you feel validated somehow? That's how Kim Fielding's writes make me feel.
This story wasn't overly Santa jizzy but it was poignant. It also hit that "making your own family" sweet spot of mine and I loved how it was formatted with each chapter having a Dear Ruth letter at the beginning. As a regular reader of Dear Prudie the advice column angle drew me in and I found myself increasingly invested in Bryce and Noah's tale and wondering if either would take the sage advice.
If you like a quaint and charming holiday story set in a small town "Dear Ruth" is just the right level of sweetness.
A review copy was provided.
You have one of those authors that every time you read something by them you feel a sense of relief that someone (ANYONE!) else shares your perceptions of the world? Maybe even makes you feel validated somehow? That's how Kim Fielding's writes make me feel.
This story wasn't overly Santa jizzy but it was poignant. It also hit that "making your own family" sweet spot of mine and I loved how it was formatted with each chapter having a Dear Ruth letter at the beginning. As a regular reader of Dear Prudie the advice column angle drew me in and I found myself increasingly invested in Bryce and Noah's tale and wondering if either would take the sage advice.
If you like a quaint and charming holiday story set in a small town "Dear Ruth" is just the right level of sweetness.
A review copy was provided.
November 17, 2017
3.5 stars
Awww, this was cute.
Bryce is a fireman in a small town. He’s not quite sure what he’s still doing in the little town since his mom just passed away. But he seems to be attached to the people now. When one of his mother’s friends asks him to take over his mother’s 'Dear Ruth' column, Bryce doesn’t know what to say. Who would want advice from a 38 year old gay man?
Well, it turns out he is quite good at giving people advice, so the column is a success once again. It helps that no one knows who Ruth is these days.
When Bryce meets Noah and his cute daughter Harper, he is immediately smitten with the friendly dad. But Bryce doesn’t quite know if Noah is gay/bi, so he decides to just keep his distance and remain friends..
This was a very cute holiday story. Bryce was a wonderful character to read about and I loved reading about the advice he gave people. Especially since he could use some advice himself.
This was a nice comfy read from the Advent Calendar.
------------------------------
An ARC of Dear Ruth was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Awww, this was cute.
Bryce is a fireman in a small town. He’s not quite sure what he’s still doing in the little town since his mom just passed away. But he seems to be attached to the people now. When one of his mother’s friends asks him to take over his mother’s 'Dear Ruth' column, Bryce doesn’t know what to say. Who would want advice from a 38 year old gay man?
Well, it turns out he is quite good at giving people advice, so the column is a success once again. It helps that no one knows who Ruth is these days.
When Bryce meets Noah and his cute daughter Harper, he is immediately smitten with the friendly dad. But Bryce doesn’t quite know if Noah is gay/bi, so he decides to just keep his distance and remain friends..
This was a very cute holiday story. Bryce was a wonderful character to read about and I loved reading about the advice he gave people. Especially since he could use some advice himself.
This was a nice comfy read from the Advent Calendar.
------------------------------
An ARC of Dear Ruth was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
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November 15, 2017How about a hot but lonely fireman for Christmas? If you're in the mood for some holiday cheer, this may do the trick.
Oh, and if you enjoy Easter eggs? The town where this story takes place has also featured in another of my short stories and one of my novels. Can you figure out which ones?
Oh, and if you enjoy Easter eggs? The town where this story takes place has also featured in another of my short stories and one of my novels. Can you figure out which ones?
December 17, 2017
I’m not much of a newspaper person. I suppose that has to do with the fact that I’m not much of a news person. When my hubby became a first responder years ago, I found I had to tune out the news for my own sanity. However, whenever I make the post office run to snag our office mail, I flip over the paper and look for the ‘Dear Abby‘ column first thing. I love it! I adore the solid and straightforward advice and find myself nodding along in agreement and sometimes shaking my head in disbelief. When I saw Fielding’s holiday advent addition of ‘Dear Ruth‘ I knew I’d enjoy it. Yep. I was right.
Bryce is the small town fire chief and he’s finding the Christmas spirit elusive this year. His mother passed away recently and the pain is still sharp in his chest. He’s been saddled with taking over her advise column in their local paper and finding it especially difficult to direct people when he’s a bit lost himself. Then his new neighbor shakes and rattles his equilibrium even more. He’s attracted to Noah but doesn’t think it’s reciprocated. Or maybe he’s just distracted and not picking up the signals? Sweet, small-town romance around the holidays…yeah, Fielding definitely knows how to report the hot story here.
What's to like: Of course, it goes without saying that I enjoy the writing, I enjoy everything that comes from Fielding’s bookshelves. A little sass, a dash of sweet and a dose of spice…it’s a marvelous combo. Being a small town girl myself, I always enjoy a quaint quiet setting. Despite its novella size, I found the story complete and fulfilling. And then we have the characters…
What's to love: The characters! I can’t think of a Fielding creation that I haven’t adored and Bryce & Noah were no exception. I enjoyed the setup and the column advise seeking style but it was the characters that make this story light up. Bryce is protective, loyal and terrible at flirting. Ha! I loved the way he wanted and craved and then stumbled and fumbled when his wishes came true. We don’t get into Noah’s head as much, but it’s easy to tell he’s funny, sweet and loving. And Harper! What a doll and a great addition to the short story. Put ’em all together and what do ya get? A great read is what!
Beware of: With only fifty or so pages, diving deep is hard to do. But if you are looking for a full novella, I believe this fits the bill. For a firefighter’s tale, the heat factor is fairly low. However, I’m still wearing my smile that resulted from the final pages.
This book is for: If you’re looking for an easy HEA with a hearty reality check and don’t mind children in your stories, you should pick up this holiday treat.
Book UNfunk
Bryce is the small town fire chief and he’s finding the Christmas spirit elusive this year. His mother passed away recently and the pain is still sharp in his chest. He’s been saddled with taking over her advise column in their local paper and finding it especially difficult to direct people when he’s a bit lost himself. Then his new neighbor shakes and rattles his equilibrium even more. He’s attracted to Noah but doesn’t think it’s reciprocated. Or maybe he’s just distracted and not picking up the signals? Sweet, small-town romance around the holidays…yeah, Fielding definitely knows how to report the hot story here.
What's to like: Of course, it goes without saying that I enjoy the writing, I enjoy everything that comes from Fielding’s bookshelves. A little sass, a dash of sweet and a dose of spice…it’s a marvelous combo. Being a small town girl myself, I always enjoy a quaint quiet setting. Despite its novella size, I found the story complete and fulfilling. And then we have the characters…
What's to love: The characters! I can’t think of a Fielding creation that I haven’t adored and Bryce & Noah were no exception. I enjoyed the setup and the column advise seeking style but it was the characters that make this story light up. Bryce is protective, loyal and terrible at flirting. Ha! I loved the way he wanted and craved and then stumbled and fumbled when his wishes came true. We don’t get into Noah’s head as much, but it’s easy to tell he’s funny, sweet and loving. And Harper! What a doll and a great addition to the short story. Put ’em all together and what do ya get? A great read is what!
Beware of: With only fifty or so pages, diving deep is hard to do. But if you are looking for a full novella, I believe this fits the bill. For a firefighter’s tale, the heat factor is fairly low. However, I’m still wearing my smile that resulted from the final pages.
This book is for: If you’re looking for an easy HEA with a hearty reality check and don’t mind children in your stories, you should pick up this holiday treat.
Book UNfunk
December 3, 2017
This is a fun Christmas romance. I loved how serious and clueless Bryce was, and how focused on his fireman responsibilities. "You want me to check the vent on your oven?" . As always with Kim Fielding, the story is well-written and endearing. What a great start to the Dreamspinner Advent Calendar for 2017.
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December 4, 2017 5 Hearts
Oh this warmed my heart so damn much and I LOVED IT!
I loved Bryce. I loved how he loved his mother and how much he misses her. I loved how he reluctantly took over her Dear Ruth column and did such a fabulous job at it. I love that he’s a runner. I love his crush on his neighbor and how awkward both he and Noah are at times. I love that 99% of Bryce’s thoughts are on fire safety. I loved Noah and his daughter Harper, she’s an amazing young girl. I LOVED LOVED LOVED how Bryce thought about Noah’s body. I loved that Bryce is slow to realize that Noah is interested and I love how Noah goes about all of it. That end was perfect and that epilogue made me tear up with pure joy.
Yup. I loved this one! *swoon*
***********************************************
The Jizzians and the Grumpicorns are at it again! We Unicorn's are reviewing the Dreamspinner 2017 Advent Calendar every Sunday, Jizzmas gang bang style on the blog. Check out the rest of the reviews for this story here, to see which side of the Jizzmas celebration the uni’s claim.
Oh this warmed my heart so damn much and I LOVED IT!
I loved Bryce. I loved how he loved his mother and how much he misses her. I loved how he reluctantly took over her Dear Ruth column and did such a fabulous job at it. I love that he’s a runner. I love his crush on his neighbor and how awkward both he and Noah are at times. I love that 99% of Bryce’s thoughts are on fire safety. I loved Noah and his daughter Harper, she’s an amazing young girl. I LOVED LOVED LOVED how Bryce thought about Noah’s body. I loved that Bryce is slow to realize that Noah is interested and I love how Noah goes about all of it. That end was perfect and that epilogue made me tear up with pure joy.
Yup. I loved this one! *swoon*
***********************************************
The Jizzians and the Grumpicorns are at it again! We Unicorn's are reviewing the Dreamspinner 2017 Advent Calendar every Sunday, Jizzmas gang bang style on the blog. Check out the rest of the reviews for this story here, to see which side of the Jizzmas celebration the uni’s claim.
November 21, 2017
~3.5~
A fire marshal secretly posing as Dear Ruth needs to take his own advice on matters of the heart.
Bryce is slow on the uptake, so his handsome new neighbor has to resort to less than subtle clues to make Bryce see the light. Bryce is convinced Noah is straight because he has a daughter. Meanwhile, it's obvious to us that Noah returns Bryce's crush.
A sense of loneliness permeates this quiet story. I enjoyed reading the Dear Ruth letters. No steam at all, but the ending is truly heartwarming.
A fire marshal secretly posing as Dear Ruth needs to take his own advice on matters of the heart.
Bryce is slow on the uptake, so his handsome new neighbor has to resort to less than subtle clues to make Bryce see the light. Bryce is convinced Noah is straight because he has a daughter. Meanwhile, it's obvious to us that Noah returns Bryce's crush.
A sense of loneliness permeates this quiet story. I enjoyed reading the Dear Ruth letters. No steam at all, but the ending is truly heartwarming.
December 7, 2017
This story was cute. I don't normally associate Kim Fielding with "cute" - oh yeah, she definitely has emotional moments in her stories, but usually her stories are so full of angst and drama. And that...was missing here. Maybe it's because I always have such high expectations from Kim Fielding (some of her books are on my favorites shelf, and I am extremely picky about my favorites shelf!), but this story just left me wanting more.
It was a good story. I liked the main characters. I liked that it was set in Kansas (which almost never happens in fiction). But that emotional connection that I almost always make with Kim's stories just wasn't there for me this time.
Like I said, it was cute - quite cute, actually, and I did enjoy reading it. But I wanted more. ;)
It was a good story. I liked the main characters. I liked that it was set in Kansas (which almost never happens in fiction). But that emotional connection that I almost always make with Kim's stories just wasn't there for me this time.
Like I said, it was cute - quite cute, actually, and I did enjoy reading it. But I wanted more. ;)
December 2, 2017
3.75 stars rounded up
Fire Marshal Bryce Reynolds returns to Baily Springs after a failed relationship. Then his mother suddenly passed away, and Bryce is asked by his mother’s good friend and editor-in-chief for Bailey Springs newspaper to take over his mother’s advice column. At first Bryce is reluctant, but then maybe it will be a good way to deal with her death as well as giving Bryce a distraction from this sexy new neighbor of his.
THIS is the kind of holiday story I love. Why? Because it involves small-town community, a little crush and pining, as well as the joy and hope of Christmas. Bryce is unsure if Noah is gay – especially since he has a kid – and he really doesn’t know how to deal with this crush of his. Of course, Bryce is also a bit clueless considering Noah has been trying to be ‘more than’ a friend (and we, as a reader, can see it).
With a fire marshal, a single father, and a cute daughter, a slow progress in the low level of steam, I think the only thing missing from this story is a pet! Oh, and I wish I can read Bryce’s answers to the questions to the Dear Ruth column, since some of those cases are good.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Fire Marshal Bryce Reynolds returns to Baily Springs after a failed relationship. Then his mother suddenly passed away, and Bryce is asked by his mother’s good friend and editor-in-chief for Bailey Springs newspaper to take over his mother’s advice column. At first Bryce is reluctant, but then maybe it will be a good way to deal with her death as well as giving Bryce a distraction from this sexy new neighbor of his.
THIS is the kind of holiday story I love. Why? Because it involves small-town community, a little crush and pining, as well as the joy and hope of Christmas. Bryce is unsure if Noah is gay – especially since he has a kid – and he really doesn’t know how to deal with this crush of his. Of course, Bryce is also a bit clueless considering Noah has been trying to be ‘more than’ a friend (and we, as a reader, can see it).
With a fire marshal, a single father, and a cute daughter, a slow progress in the low level of steam, I think the only thing missing from this story is a pet! Oh, and I wish I can read Bryce’s answers to the questions to the Dear Ruth column, since some of those cases are good.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
December 12, 2017
3.5 Stars for Dear Ruth
Kim Fielding has a recipe for holiday story gold with Dear Ruth. A charming small town, a deputy fire chief who loves his mother, a handsome neighbor with a cute daughter and a two way crush that can only end in love because it just has to. I love when two dudes are crushing on each other and pretty much everyone can see it but them. Especially when it isn’t too drawn out and one of them finally makes “the move”. Bryce has been unlucky in love, so he’s not sure he’s a great fit for taking over his mother’s advice column, Dear Ruth, after her sudden passing. Turns out he’s very good at it, but also crap at taking his own advice. Good thing Noah, the hot neighbor, isn’t crap at taking good advice, and an HEA is inevitable. I loved how each thought he other was his ideal but couldn’t see it in themselves. It made the mutual attraction realization that much more charming and downright adorable. The epilogue was perfect and totally believable for the new family and I loved it.
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
Kim Fielding has a recipe for holiday story gold with Dear Ruth. A charming small town, a deputy fire chief who loves his mother, a handsome neighbor with a cute daughter and a two way crush that can only end in love because it just has to. I love when two dudes are crushing on each other and pretty much everyone can see it but them. Especially when it isn’t too drawn out and one of them finally makes “the move”. Bryce has been unlucky in love, so he’s not sure he’s a great fit for taking over his mother’s advice column, Dear Ruth, after her sudden passing. Turns out he’s very good at it, but also crap at taking his own advice. Good thing Noah, the hot neighbor, isn’t crap at taking good advice, and an HEA is inevitable. I loved how each thought he other was his ideal but couldn’t see it in themselves. It made the mutual attraction realization that much more charming and downright adorable. The epilogue was perfect and totally believable for the new family and I loved it.
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
December 4, 2017
Kim Fielding writes great stories and I honestly can`t remember rating one of her books with less than 4 stars. However, this one was a major disappointment for me.
It felt like a good concept for a story needed to be finished in a rush to have it available for the holiday season. Bryce is a firefighter (gay and single in a small town), who has a major crush on the single dad who just moved in next door.
There were several funny ideas in the story - like the "Dear Ruth" column in the local paper that Bryce "inherited" from his mother, but at the end, there was no space or time to develop those or give the characters depth. The whole story felt rushed, on my tablet it was less than 50 pages which was an additional surprise, because with a price of roughly 4 Dollars I definitely expected more.
It is one of those books that you can spend 99 cents on and then read it in a sitting of less than an hour and that would be perfectly fine, however as it is it felt more like a rip-off, so 2 disappointed stars from me.
It felt like a good concept for a story needed to be finished in a rush to have it available for the holiday season. Bryce is a firefighter (gay and single in a small town), who has a major crush on the single dad who just moved in next door.
There were several funny ideas in the story - like the "Dear Ruth" column in the local paper that Bryce "inherited" from his mother, but at the end, there was no space or time to develop those or give the characters depth. The whole story felt rushed, on my tablet it was less than 50 pages which was an additional surprise, because with a price of roughly 4 Dollars I definitely expected more.
It is one of those books that you can spend 99 cents on and then read it in a sitting of less than an hour and that would be perfectly fine, however as it is it felt more like a rip-off, so 2 disappointed stars from me.
December 24, 2017
3.5 stars
December 11, 2017
A sweet Christmas short. Gah, if Bryce got any more dense he'd be a rock! The give and take between Noah and Bryce was fun to read.
December 5, 2017
This was a very sweet start on this year's calendar and everything you need to get you into the Christmas spirit. I loved how Fielding created such depth to the story with such few words. It drew you in, you felt like you were a part of the town, gossiping with the rest of them.
I loved Harper, she was great fun and I wouldn't mind to read more about her and her fireman obsession (some start young) ;)
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review
December 4, 2017
3.75 stars
December 30, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Dear Ruth by Kim Fielding is a delightful little morsel that’s sure to become a holiday favorite for many. Bryce is charming and shy, nerdy about fire regulations as only a fire chief can be, and absolutely smitten by Noah, the new neighbor. As he attempts to batten down his growing crush, he also grapples with missing his mom and deciding if the little town he’s returned to is really the place for him to settle down in permanently. Bryce has a habit of running from his problems and that includes taking a risk on discovering if Noah is truly what he appears—straight and unavailable. While we get a bit of a feel for who Noah is in this story, it’s really all about Bryce and how he copes with not only losing his mom, but trying to decide once and for all where he should be.
Dear Ruth takes a shy, by the book fireman and throws a monkey wrench in the form of a hot neighbor into the mix and the resulting story is magically sweet and humorous. All in all, this lovely short story is a happy holiday romance that will put a smile on your face.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Dear Ruth by Kim Fielding is a delightful little morsel that’s sure to become a holiday favorite for many. Bryce is charming and shy, nerdy about fire regulations as only a fire chief can be, and absolutely smitten by Noah, the new neighbor. As he attempts to batten down his growing crush, he also grapples with missing his mom and deciding if the little town he’s returned to is really the place for him to settle down in permanently. Bryce has a habit of running from his problems and that includes taking a risk on discovering if Noah is truly what he appears—straight and unavailable. While we get a bit of a feel for who Noah is in this story, it’s really all about Bryce and how he copes with not only losing his mom, but trying to decide once and for all where he should be.
Dear Ruth takes a shy, by the book fireman and throws a monkey wrench in the form of a hot neighbor into the mix and the resulting story is magically sweet and humorous. All in all, this lovely short story is a happy holiday romance that will put a smile on your face.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
November 28, 2017
Dear Ruth is the first release from this year’s Dreamspinner Advent Stories collection. I haven’t read this author before, but after this sweet Christmas story, I wouldn’t hesitate to read another by Miss Fielding. Dear Ruth proved to be a great kick-off to my holiday-themed binge reading, with likable characters, a lovely romance, and good story development.
I really liked the pairing of a long-time bachelor with a single father and found both men very charming. Bryce was a touch overbearing with his fire safety concerns, but those moments made his character just a touch awkward and in need of the calming, more relaxed mentality of Noah. There was a decent amount of character depth, with Bryce wading through his grief over his mother’s unexpected death while trying to reclaim his confidence after his previous relationship fizzled. As the short story is told entirely from Bryce’s point-of-view, there’s not as much information about Noah. However, what was included in those moments between Bryce and Noah gave the reader plenty to generate the warm fuzzies I look for in holiday stories. The writing in Dear Ruth flowed well with a nice pace that didn’t rush the relationship too much. My only “complaint” would be the length limiting the relationship development. I would have enjoyed seeing these two navigate their relationship a bit more. However, for a holiday short story, this one is certain to bring some cheer to readers.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
I really liked the pairing of a long-time bachelor with a single father and found both men very charming. Bryce was a touch overbearing with his fire safety concerns, but those moments made his character just a touch awkward and in need of the calming, more relaxed mentality of Noah. There was a decent amount of character depth, with Bryce wading through his grief over his mother’s unexpected death while trying to reclaim his confidence after his previous relationship fizzled. As the short story is told entirely from Bryce’s point-of-view, there’s not as much information about Noah. However, what was included in those moments between Bryce and Noah gave the reader plenty to generate the warm fuzzies I look for in holiday stories. The writing in Dear Ruth flowed well with a nice pace that didn’t rush the relationship too much. My only “complaint” would be the length limiting the relationship development. I would have enjoyed seeing these two navigate their relationship a bit more. However, for a holiday short story, this one is certain to bring some cheer to readers.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
December 5, 2017
Absolutely adorkable. Bryce is a fireman in a small Kansas town and is still dealing with the death of his mother so isn't feeling the Christmas spirit. He is also absolutely clueless to some not so subtle attempts by his new neighbor Noah to get his attention.
The name of the story comes from an advice column his mother used to write for the local paper that he has been wrangled into continuing. It's so cute how he stresses over how to answer the letters asking for advice yet still not see Noah's attempts at courting,
I loved how he uses fire safety tips as a way of showing he cares. Such a dork!
A really sweet holiday read with no steam but plenty of angst and an ending that will make you giddy!
The name of the story comes from an advice column his mother used to write for the local paper that he has been wrangled into continuing. It's so cute how he stresses over how to answer the letters asking for advice yet still not see Noah's attempts at courting,
I loved how he uses fire safety tips as a way of showing he cares. Such a dork!
A really sweet holiday read with no steam but plenty of angst and an ending that will make you giddy!
August 25, 2020
This was a cute little novella about a local fire chief who crushes on his single-father neighbor around Christmas time. There's a little side-bit about, Bryce, the fire-man dealing with his mother's death and taking over her advice column in the local paper. This of course is the means of resolving the UST between him and the single-father, Noah...since Bryce thinks he might be straight and is insecure about admitting his feelings. So Noah asks for advice in the column and then takes it. This is a very fluffy romance and and also pretty clean...no graphic sex, maybe some groping with the kiss, but not much in the way of heat. This is straight up romance. It was a fun easy read with pretty cute characters. I liked Noah's daughter, Harper as well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 15, 2018
I needed something like this, so for me 5 absolutely adorable stars. Harper was sooo cute, her dad Noah the right kind of unsure and awkward and Bryce, God, a sweetheart. I wanted to read more about them, but I was completely happy with their story. It's definitely one of the best Christmas stories this year for me.
December 19, 2017
Aww This xmas story is so cute!!! Always like a good slow burn , also in the short stories xD
January 15, 2018
Overall book rating: 3.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.5
Just what you need in a little Christmas read. Loved it.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3.5
Just what you need in a little Christmas read. Loved it.
December 9, 2020
This was ADORBS. I love Kim Fielding, and this is a perfect little short. I got some good laughs out of it, too.
December 13, 2017
Wonderful, fluffy, happy-making holiday goodness.
This story was the perfect mix of romance and holiday happiness. I loved the advice column aspect and the characters. Definitely recommended!
This story was the perfect mix of romance and holiday happiness. I loved the advice column aspect and the characters. Definitely recommended!
December 7, 2017
A touching holiday story, ‘Dear Ruth’ is about redefining where home is, figuring out what’s really important, and finding love. Written with humor and a deep understanding of human nature, the story of “Bah Humbug” – aka Bryce – is one man’s tale about finding his footing again after losing his mother and reconsidering what to do with his life. At thirty-eight he is no spring chicken, as they say, but he has plenty of energy, curiosity, and a need for love that he has successfully repressed so far. But then several things happen at once, and everything chances.
First, a good friend of his mother’s and Bryce’s mentor asks him to take over his mother’s advice column in the local newspaper. It’s not something Bryce had ever considered, being a rational and very busy fire marshal. But as it turns out, thinking about other people’s problems as he composes his responses, forces Bryce to reflect on his own situation as well. Secondly, he gets to know his new neighbor, Noah, and Noah’s precocious six-year old daughter, Harper. They include him in their holiday preparations and slowly pull Bryce into their little family. It opens up a whole new world for Bryce, and I loved watching him take one cautious step after another until it’s too late to withdraw – not that he even considers that by the time he realizes he’s exactly where he wants to be – not just for the holidays, but for the rest of his life.
If you like sweet Christmas stories written with humor and heart, if you want to see two grown men deal with discovering love, and if you’re looking for a read that might just make you smile, you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
First, a good friend of his mother’s and Bryce’s mentor asks him to take over his mother’s advice column in the local newspaper. It’s not something Bryce had ever considered, being a rational and very busy fire marshal. But as it turns out, thinking about other people’s problems as he composes his responses, forces Bryce to reflect on his own situation as well. Secondly, he gets to know his new neighbor, Noah, and Noah’s precocious six-year old daughter, Harper. They include him in their holiday preparations and slowly pull Bryce into their little family. It opens up a whole new world for Bryce, and I loved watching him take one cautious step after another until it’s too late to withdraw – not that he even considers that by the time he realizes he’s exactly where he wants to be – not just for the holidays, but for the rest of his life.
If you like sweet Christmas stories written with humor and heart, if you want to see two grown men deal with discovering love, and if you’re looking for a read that might just make you smile, you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
November 14, 2017
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ FOUR & 1/2 - STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Simple, bold cover design with strong font choices. Sweet and fun sounding synopsis.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-Person
It takes a truly talented author to present a 50+ page short story and make it read like something so much more.
The characters and content were fantastic. The reader was given back stories, some drama, a few laughs along the way, tangible attraction, nosy neighbors, and an enjoyable, satisfying ending.
I've not read anything by this author until now, but will be looking at their other titles as soon as possible.
.
Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 4.5 ~ Stars: 4.5
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Simple, bold cover design with strong font choices. Sweet and fun sounding synopsis.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-Person
It takes a truly talented author to present a 50+ page short story and make it read like something so much more.
The characters and content were fantastic. The reader was given back stories, some drama, a few laughs along the way, tangible attraction, nosy neighbors, and an enjoyable, satisfying ending.
I've not read anything by this author until now, but will be looking at their other titles as soon as possible.
.
Rating: [PG-13] ~ Score: 4.5 ~ Stars: 4.5
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
December 7, 2022
4.5 stars
Bryce is reeling from all the changes in his life. His long term relationship broke up, he moved back to small-town Kansas, and his mother died. Plus, a new cute neighbour has moved in down the street. The neighbour has a kid, so Bryce yearns from afar. But he runs into them one day, and invites them to come visit the fire hall. Things quickly snowball from there.
Well, after many "no, I can't, this book is stupid" reactions for almost all the other new-to-me books I've attempted to read lately, this book melted my (suddenly) grinch-y little heart. In spite of being really short, it told a full story that wasn't really missing anything. I mean, I would have loved more story and more of them getting to know one another, but that's just me being greedy. And since this has one of my most disliked tropes (insta-love) and I still liked it, it was definitely well written enough to make me overlook it. Short and sweet without being sappy. This was probably more like a 4 star read, but the extra .5 is for the fact that I liked it from the get go and it never let me down.
Bryce is reeling from all the changes in his life. His long term relationship broke up, he moved back to small-town Kansas, and his mother died. Plus, a new cute neighbour has moved in down the street. The neighbour has a kid, so Bryce yearns from afar. But he runs into them one day, and invites them to come visit the fire hall. Things quickly snowball from there.
Well, after many "no, I can't, this book is stupid" reactions for almost all the other new-to-me books I've attempted to read lately, this book melted my (suddenly) grinch-y little heart. In spite of being really short, it told a full story that wasn't really missing anything. I mean, I would have loved more story and more of them getting to know one another, but that's just me being greedy. And since this has one of my most disliked tropes (insta-love) and I still liked it, it was definitely well written enough to make me overlook it. Short and sweet without being sappy. This was probably more like a 4 star read, but the extra .5 is for the fact that I liked it from the get go and it never let me down.
November 29, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
I love romantic Christmas novellas, as they bring all the magic and excitement of Christmas to life with plenty of heartwarming passion.
This is a really sweet, and amusingly original story. Bryce is wonderful, with his constant reminders about the hazards of fire, and he certainly seems to be the perfect person to fill his Mum's place as Dear Ruth. That it helps him get closer to his new neighbour, Noah is a bonus. The revelations about what Harper had been asking his firefighter colleagues was very cute.
Perfect way start to the run up to Christmas.
I love romantic Christmas novellas, as they bring all the magic and excitement of Christmas to life with plenty of heartwarming passion.
This is a really sweet, and amusingly original story. Bryce is wonderful, with his constant reminders about the hazards of fire, and he certainly seems to be the perfect person to fill his Mum's place as Dear Ruth. That it helps him get closer to his new neighbour, Noah is a bonus. The revelations about what Harper had been asking his firefighter colleagues was very cute.
Perfect way start to the run up to Christmas.
March 3, 2018
Review can be read at It's About The Book
3.5 stars
This short holiday story was cute and heartfelt. I really enjoyed Bryce and his fire safety ways. Noah was great and I liked how he “handled” Bryce. Bryce is quiet, lonely, and crushing on his new neighbor, Noah. He is also unsure of Noah being gay/bi since Noah is a single father. Bryce is cute when he’s clueless.
There are times when I really miss my small town and this story brought back some of the good memories I had of it. I loved the small town feel Bailey Springs gave off.
I loved reading the ‘Dear Ruth’ letters and actually could have used more of them in this story.
This short story is only 50 pages, so I don’t want to give too much away. You just have to read this little gem.
3.5 stars
This short holiday story was cute and heartfelt. I really enjoyed Bryce and his fire safety ways. Noah was great and I liked how he “handled” Bryce. Bryce is quiet, lonely, and crushing on his new neighbor, Noah. He is also unsure of Noah being gay/bi since Noah is a single father. Bryce is cute when he’s clueless.
There are times when I really miss my small town and this story brought back some of the good memories I had of it. I loved the small town feel Bailey Springs gave off.
I loved reading the ‘Dear Ruth’ letters and actually could have used more of them in this story.
This short story is only 50 pages, so I don’t want to give too much away. You just have to read this little gem.
December 27, 2021
Hyper mignon.... oui "cute" à souhait ! La seule remarque négative c'est que c'est bien trop court. Je rageais un peu en pensant à quel point cette intrigue avec 300 pages de plus aurait été géniale. Il faut souligner le vrai talent de Kim Fielding qui parvient à exploiter complètement à fond ce format frustrant. Nous sommes dans une petite ville perdue... le chef des pompiers, un nouveau voisin, une adorable et pétulante gamine, mais aussi quelques personnages arrivent pour mettre un peu de consistance au contexte.
Pétillant, enlevé avec une atmosphère de Noël qui prend un peu le contrepied du "bonbon rose" habituel. J'avoue que j'ai adoré que notre pompier casse l'ambiance en faisant des fixations sur les dangers liés aux décorations et au sapin.
Oui, vraiment très mignon !
Pétillant, enlevé avec une atmosphère de Noël qui prend un peu le contrepied du "bonbon rose" habituel. J'avoue que j'ai adoré que notre pompier casse l'ambiance en faisant des fixations sur les dangers liés aux décorations et au sapin.
Oui, vraiment très mignon !
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