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A Timely Gift
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2017 Advent Calendar collection Stocking Stuffers.
Sometimes the right gift can be life-changing….
On the solstice, Rory’s grandfather gives him a pocket watch that he claims will have Rory’s life sorted and his problems solved by Christmas. Rory starts out skeptical, but when he reconnects with an ex he never thought he’d see again, he has to admit there might be some holiday magic working after all.
Deacon’s life is in shambles, and he’s returned to Syracuse for a fresh start. Running into Rory again feels like much more than a coincidence, and neither of them can deny the passion between them is still smoldering. With the watch behaving oddly at just the right moments, Rory and Deacon might receive the gift of a lifetime—if they’re willing to accept it.
Sometimes the right gift can be life-changing….
On the solstice, Rory’s grandfather gives him a pocket watch that he claims will have Rory’s life sorted and his problems solved by Christmas. Rory starts out skeptical, but when he reconnects with an ex he never thought he’d see again, he has to admit there might be some holiday magic working after all.
Deacon’s life is in shambles, and he’s returned to Syracuse for a fresh start. Running into Rory again feels like much more than a coincidence, and neither of them can deny the passion between them is still smoldering. With the watch behaving oddly at just the right moments, Rory and Deacon might receive the gift of a lifetime—if they’re willing to accept it.
46 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
2 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Kris T. Bethke
64 books63 followersKris T. Bethke has been a voracious reader for pretty much her entire life and has been writing stories for nearly as long. An avid and prolific daydreamer, she always has a story in her head. She spends most of her free time reading, writing, or knitting/crocheting her latest project. Her biggest desire is to find a way to accomplish all three tasks at one time. A classic muscle car will always turn her head and weekend naps are one of her greatest guilty pleasures. She lives in a converted attic with an aquarium full of tropical fish and the voices in her head. She’ll tell you she thinks that’s a pretty good deal.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 31, 2019
3.5 Stars
My second Bethke in a matter of weeks, and I was not disappointed.
Apparently Rory’s grandfather thinks it’s time he settle down, and what better way to ensure that but to give him a meddling pocket watch that helps him snag his long lost ex.
Though they parted on good terms 13 years ago, Rory and Deacon’s whirlwind romance way back when was a very heady time and looked upon with great fondness. Now that Deacon has returned to town, Christmas is the perfect excuse to show the holiday spirit since he has no one to spend it with.
These two reconnect - quickly and sexily. If they need a few nudges from a possessed watch, then so be it. This was very feel good and it went down the hatch with nary a niggle! Enjoy!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
My second Bethke in a matter of weeks, and I was not disappointed.
Apparently Rory’s grandfather thinks it’s time he settle down, and what better way to ensure that but to give him a meddling pocket watch that helps him snag his long lost ex.
Though they parted on good terms 13 years ago, Rory and Deacon’s whirlwind romance way back when was a very heady time and looked upon with great fondness. Now that Deacon has returned to town, Christmas is the perfect excuse to show the holiday spirit since he has no one to spend it with.
These two reconnect - quickly and sexily. If they need a few nudges from a possessed watch, then so be it. This was very feel good and it went down the hatch with nary a niggle! Enjoy!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
November 28, 2017
This short, holiday story had the exact right amount of fluffy and sweet that I was hoping for, with an air of "second chance", Christmas magic, too.
Thirty-five year old, vet tech Rory loved his job, his close-knit family, and his chatty, African Grey parrot, Apollo, but even his pagan grandfather knows there was something missing from his otherwise-perfect life. So his Grandda gave him an heirloom pocket watch on the Winter solstice, just to help fate along a bit.
Recently-divorced, recently-injured, concert pianist Deacon had just moved back to town after being away for 13 years, when, lo and behold, who should he run into early one morning at a coffee shop other than his ex, Rory.
Although they'd only dated for a brief time, Deacon moving across the country for his dream job in LA had been hard on Rory, but he had since moved on with his life.
However, that didn't mean that Rory was about to willingly pass up a chance at another bite at that same apple, when presented with the chance. That would have taken a special kind of stupid that Rory, fortunately, didn't possess.
I adore a good second chances story and this one was just my speed, with some cuddling, steamy times, Christmas with the family, then a good ole' heart-to-heart about what exactly each MC was feeling after being reunited.
The story was low drama and medium feels, with the only tension arising over the requisite "does he feel the same way, too" anxiety, ending with a pretty solid HFN, hoping for more.
I'd rate this one at around 3.75 stars.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
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November 1, 2018
I thought this was a sweet story. I loved how they met up again...I wish there was more.
February 19, 2018
As this story proves, "holiday magic" can happen in many different ways. in 'A Timely Gift' it comes in the form of "Solstice magic" bestowed on Rory by his grandfather, in the form of an antique pocket watch. Grandda is quite the character and definitely has his own ideas about what's wrong with Rory's life, and I loved the way the old man "interferes" not very discreetly, but extremely effectively.
Rory is not keen on settling down, but as it turns out, he was just looking for the right man to commit to. He'd never have thought it would be Deacon, an ex he hasn't seen in fifteen years, but as they begin to reconnect after Deacon returns "home", Rory realizes he never got over the man he had a passionate three-month relationship with. But Deacon had dreams of becoming a professional pianist, and Rory wanted to stay to become a vet tech, so they lost track of each other.
The "magical" pocket watch made me grin. It's almost like another character in the story, making strange noises and being generally present as Rory and Deacon reconnect. Both men clearly still have feelings for each other, but a lot has changed, and they need to deal with that before they can decide what to do about it. Not that Grandda or the pocket watch leave them much of a choice!
If you like magical holiday stories, if second chances are your thing, and if you're looking for a charming read that is as entertaining as it is funny, the you will probably like this short story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
Rory is not keen on settling down, but as it turns out, he was just looking for the right man to commit to. He'd never have thought it would be Deacon, an ex he hasn't seen in fifteen years, but as they begin to reconnect after Deacon returns "home", Rory realizes he never got over the man he had a passionate three-month relationship with. But Deacon had dreams of becoming a professional pianist, and Rory wanted to stay to become a vet tech, so they lost track of each other.
The "magical" pocket watch made me grin. It's almost like another character in the story, making strange noises and being generally present as Rory and Deacon reconnect. Both men clearly still have feelings for each other, but a lot has changed, and they need to deal with that before they can decide what to do about it. Not that Grandda or the pocket watch leave them much of a choice!
If you like magical holiday stories, if second chances are your thing, and if you're looking for a charming read that is as entertaining as it is funny, the you will probably like this short story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
December 12, 2017
Just enough magic for the season.
Full Unicornian Gangbang reviews every Sunday in celebration of DSP's annual Advent releases posted on the blog and then here.
Week 3 posts December 17th and I'd recommend reading every one of them! Nothing says Merry Jizzmas like DSP's Advent stories and reading them with your besties makes them even sweeter.
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
Full Unicornian Gangbang reviews every Sunday in celebration of DSP's annual Advent releases posted on the blog and then here.
Week 3 posts December 17th and I'd recommend reading every one of them! Nothing says Merry Jizzmas like DSP's Advent stories and reading them with your besties makes them even sweeter.
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
December 15, 2017
4/5 stars for a sweet holiday surprise!!
Rory loved his life. He loved his job as a vet tech, he loved his family, and he loved Apollo, his parrot. He'd worked hard to get to where he was and he was proud of his success. His grandpa, however, knows that something is missing. Or rather, someone is missing. For winter solstice, he gifts Rory a pocket watch that he hopes will point him in the right direction and remind him that his own time is precious and that he should make the most of it.
Deacon was a concert pianist taking a long overdue break in the worst way possible. Since his injury, life hasn't been the same, but he wasn't about to let that put his life on hold. Deacon moved back home after a 13 year leave of absence and almost immediately runs into his ex, Rory.
Neither one of them thought that they'd ever be back at square one, but Rory isn't going to let Deacon leave so easily this time around. This book was short and sweet and packed full of that bittersweet feeling that comes with second chance romances, but it also had a hint of hope and wishes for the best. It was a great short story and though I would've loved to read more, I didn't feel like anything was missing from the story.
Rory loved his life. He loved his job as a vet tech, he loved his family, and he loved Apollo, his parrot. He'd worked hard to get to where he was and he was proud of his success. His grandpa, however, knows that something is missing. Or rather, someone is missing. For winter solstice, he gifts Rory a pocket watch that he hopes will point him in the right direction and remind him that his own time is precious and that he should make the most of it.
Deacon was a concert pianist taking a long overdue break in the worst way possible. Since his injury, life hasn't been the same, but he wasn't about to let that put his life on hold. Deacon moved back home after a 13 year leave of absence and almost immediately runs into his ex, Rory.
Neither one of them thought that they'd ever be back at square one, but Rory isn't going to let Deacon leave so easily this time around. This book was short and sweet and packed full of that bittersweet feeling that comes with second chance romances, but it also had a hint of hope and wishes for the best. It was a great short story and though I would've loved to read more, I didn't feel like anything was missing from the story.
December 23, 2017
Christmas is a time for family, but this year it might also be a time for something a bit more. When his grandfather gifts Rory an old pocket watch for Solstice, he doesn’t think it is anything more than a family heirloom. But when he repeatedly runs into an old flame, he thinks maybe it is more than happenstance that is bringing them together.
Sweet and short, this was a lovely little Christmas bite. While I think the watch was mostly superfluous for most of the story, I do like when it actually impacted the plot. And having a side character who was pagan was a pretty good addition.
Mostly this was just a very nice story about reconnecting with a lost love, set around the holidays. The two MCs were nice, if not terribly unique, and I really liked that the author didn’t have them saying “I love you” after only having known each other again for a week.
3.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Sweet and short, this was a lovely little Christmas bite. While I think the watch was mostly superfluous for most of the story, I do like when it actually impacted the plot. And having a side character who was pagan was a pretty good addition.
Mostly this was just a very nice story about reconnecting with a lost love, set around the holidays. The two MCs were nice, if not terribly unique, and I really liked that the author didn’t have them saying “I love you” after only having known each other again for a week.
3.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
February 17, 2020
I know the holidays are officially over, but this is actually a story that could be for all year round. Even though it is a Christmas story. It’s a story of lost loves and second chances. And a little mischief from a grandfather who wants his grandson happy.
Rory was heartbroken when Deacon left and they broke up. He couldn’t blame him for going though. It was an opportunity of a lifetime. But he still missed him some days. And running into him after work one morning after 13 years, was a shock to say the least. But after some catching up and reconnecting, the flame still seems to be there. But will they pick up where they left off or will they let the flame die out once and for all?
I was heartbroken myself when I read of Rory and Deacon’s story. I would have made sure Deacon had left too. Even if my heart shattered. It was the opportunity someone like Deacon couldn’t pass up. And to have him miss out for being selfish would have been awful. But yeah, it’s a hard thing. Having them reconnect, seemed just perfect. And I really hoped they would pick up where they left off. They seemed like the perfect pair. They got each other in so many ways. The passion and excitement of each others lives was just the start. They just fed off of each other. They built up each other, supported each other and they seemed to be perfect.
It’s a real sweet story. And like I said, even though it’s technically for Christmas, it’s one of those stories for all year round.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Rory was heartbroken when Deacon left and they broke up. He couldn’t blame him for going though. It was an opportunity of a lifetime. But he still missed him some days. And running into him after work one morning after 13 years, was a shock to say the least. But after some catching up and reconnecting, the flame still seems to be there. But will they pick up where they left off or will they let the flame die out once and for all?
I was heartbroken myself when I read of Rory and Deacon’s story. I would have made sure Deacon had left too. Even if my heart shattered. It was the opportunity someone like Deacon couldn’t pass up. And to have him miss out for being selfish would have been awful. But yeah, it’s a hard thing. Having them reconnect, seemed just perfect. And I really hoped they would pick up where they left off. They seemed like the perfect pair. They got each other in so many ways. The passion and excitement of each others lives was just the start. They just fed off of each other. They built up each other, supported each other and they seemed to be perfect.
It’s a real sweet story. And like I said, even though it’s technically for Christmas, it’s one of those stories for all year round.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
December 15, 2017
4.0 fated stars
A Timely Gift had just the right amount of sweetness and holiday magic in it to leave me happy and warm. I’m always a fan of second chance romances and particularly in shorter stories the previous relationship makes the connection a little more believable. In this short, college boyfriends Deacon and Rory unexpectedly reconnect. I enjoyed both heroes and really liked the two of them together. While there wasn’t a lot of character development in the story, the heroes weren’t one-dimensional or dull and the story was entertaining. I really loved the idea of fate bringing Deacon back into Rory’s life and thought the way it wound into the storyline embodied the “the magic of the season”. The only thing that was a little off for me was the pacing. It felt a little slow or stilted at moments, particularly at the beginning. However, once Deacon and Rory reconnect, the pacing leveled out and the story was very enjoyable. With second chance romances, I expect to feel some sparks and chemistry but the abbreviated length of these holiday shorts usually mean it’s a little lacking in that area. I was pleasantly surprised both the physical and emotional connection was evident in A Timely Gift and it was easy to see this couple succeeding. If you’re looking for a little holiday love and magic, this is definitely one worth picking up.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
A Timely Gift had just the right amount of sweetness and holiday magic in it to leave me happy and warm. I’m always a fan of second chance romances and particularly in shorter stories the previous relationship makes the connection a little more believable. In this short, college boyfriends Deacon and Rory unexpectedly reconnect. I enjoyed both heroes and really liked the two of them together. While there wasn’t a lot of character development in the story, the heroes weren’t one-dimensional or dull and the story was entertaining. I really loved the idea of fate bringing Deacon back into Rory’s life and thought the way it wound into the storyline embodied the “the magic of the season”. The only thing that was a little off for me was the pacing. It felt a little slow or stilted at moments, particularly at the beginning. However, once Deacon and Rory reconnect, the pacing leveled out and the story was very enjoyable. With second chance romances, I expect to feel some sparks and chemistry but the abbreviated length of these holiday shorts usually mean it’s a little lacking in that area. I was pleasantly surprised both the physical and emotional connection was evident in A Timely Gift and it was easy to see this couple succeeding. If you’re looking for a little holiday love and magic, this is definitely one worth picking up.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
January 2, 2018
Pleasantly Unfeigned
I won't say much about this one just because it should be allowed to speak for itself. This was a perfect holiday short. There's a little poignance, tantalizing chemistry, a little whimsy, a little mysticism, a dash of fate and a whole lotta love wrapped up into this short little nugget.
All the ephemeral things I enjoy about the holidays are present here. The emphasis is all on family, friends, and knowing when to get out of your own way to hold onto a good thing when it's smacking you in the face.
Even better, there's a hot tidbit lovingly squeezed into the middle of this story that makes it just that much more believable. Chemistry, feels, a little hot sex, and luuurrrve. What more do you need?
This story was very well-written. It felt smooth, natural and it flowed well. Pacing a short story must be hard to do with any finesse because many shorts fall short in that department. But not this one. Not today.
I believed what the characters were serving up. They were realistic in their recollections of their first go-round in the "relationship" department. No rose colored glasses or revisionist history. Just a sense of mutual, if distant, fondness that a 3 month fling would bring if two people were emotionally and sexually compatible but young and going their separate ways.
There wasn't any years-long pining or showy breakup, no angsty drama or family shenanigans that contributed to their paths diverging. It all came across as an entirely-possible-in-real-life scenario. The fact that there wasn't any of the usual nonsense made it that much easier to buy into the feels without attributing it all to nostalgia.
Now I'm rambling. So I'll wrap it up. I loved this short. In many ways it embodies all the good things about the holidays. It's got that "feel" to it. Add in all the other pluses I mentioned and this is a no brainer. Read it. And enjoy.
4 hearts
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
I won't say much about this one just because it should be allowed to speak for itself. This was a perfect holiday short. There's a little poignance, tantalizing chemistry, a little whimsy, a little mysticism, a dash of fate and a whole lotta love wrapped up into this short little nugget.
All the ephemeral things I enjoy about the holidays are present here. The emphasis is all on family, friends, and knowing when to get out of your own way to hold onto a good thing when it's smacking you in the face.
Even better, there's a hot tidbit lovingly squeezed into the middle of this story that makes it just that much more believable. Chemistry, feels, a little hot sex, and luuurrrve. What more do you need?
This story was very well-written. It felt smooth, natural and it flowed well. Pacing a short story must be hard to do with any finesse because many shorts fall short in that department. But not this one. Not today.
I believed what the characters were serving up. They were realistic in their recollections of their first go-round in the "relationship" department. No rose colored glasses or revisionist history. Just a sense of mutual, if distant, fondness that a 3 month fling would bring if two people were emotionally and sexually compatible but young and going their separate ways.
There wasn't any years-long pining or showy breakup, no angsty drama or family shenanigans that contributed to their paths diverging. It all came across as an entirely-possible-in-real-life scenario. The fact that there wasn't any of the usual nonsense made it that much easier to buy into the feels without attributing it all to nostalgia.
Now I'm rambling. So I'll wrap it up. I loved this short. In many ways it embodies all the good things about the holidays. It's got that "feel" to it. Add in all the other pluses I mentioned and this is a no brainer. Read it. And enjoy.
4 hearts
More reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be found on Goodreads here.
Images (when present) may be subject to copyright.
An ARC copy of this title was provided for an honest review.
November 26, 2017
Rory's Grandda gives him a pocket watch on the Winter Solstice and tells him he needs to find a family. He runs into an ex he thought he would never see. Is it coincidence or fate?
I expected something more from reading the blurb to this one. I never saw what the 'magic' of the watch or how it came into play with Rory and Deacon. Also, I did not see anything that said what the so-called shambles Deacon's life was that brought him back. Now saying that the story is cute. It has lots of charm with the Irish brogue of his Grandda. The rekindling of the romance is sweet and sexy. I do wish the story had been longer so we could get more of both Rory and Deacon's background and the magic of the watch.
If you like Winter Solstice, second chances, fated love and a sweet, sexy holiday story you will like this
I expected something more from reading the blurb to this one. I never saw what the 'magic' of the watch or how it came into play with Rory and Deacon. Also, I did not see anything that said what the so-called shambles Deacon's life was that brought him back. Now saying that the story is cute. It has lots of charm with the Irish brogue of his Grandda. The rekindling of the romance is sweet and sexy. I do wish the story had been longer so we could get more of both Rory and Deacon's background and the magic of the watch.
If you like Winter Solstice, second chances, fated love and a sweet, sexy holiday story you will like this
December 13, 2017
Meeting your long lost love and have an opportunity for a second chance is always sweet.
Especially when some 'magic' involved.
But where's the magic? I think it's in the old watch Rory's Grandda gave him. Reminding him that Deacon is someone he need to keep. Someone from the past that could be his future.
It's a sweet fluffy short story, good enough to read to pass your holiday.
Don't expect too much magic. Because I didn't feel it, and also, the chemistry between Rory and Deacon not as strong as I expected.
January 28, 2025
One of my very favorite things is the opportunity to experience new-to-me authors. Some of those have turned out to be well loved favorites and practically auto-buys. Kris T. Bethke is new to me although definitely not new to the world of m/m romance. I was captured by the story, the characters, and the dialogue right from the beginning.
Rory’s grandda is the head of the household regardless he’s in his eighties and his son is alive and well. It doesn’t matter, everyone listens to him. As Rory says, “Grandda’s always right”, but not in a mean or condescending way. He’s an old Scotsman who has lived in upper New York State for sixty years but every once in a while Rory can hear the burr and the lovely accent. So it is when Grandda sits Rory down and gifts him with his pocket watch, obviously handed down in the family and with their family crest on the back.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Rory’s grandda is the head of the household regardless he’s in his eighties and his son is alive and well. It doesn’t matter, everyone listens to him. As Rory says, “Grandda’s always right”, but not in a mean or condescending way. He’s an old Scotsman who has lived in upper New York State for sixty years but every once in a while Rory can hear the burr and the lovely accent. So it is when Grandda sits Rory down and gifts him with his pocket watch, obviously handed down in the family and with their family crest on the back.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
December 15, 2017
Christmas magic. No…solstice magic. Who wouldn’t love a story about second-chance love, a magical pocket watch, and a wizened Scottish Grandda?
I love Kris T. Bethke’s writing style. She has an uplifting lilt to her works, all while creating depth of character, and this one is no exception. I fell in love with Rory, on page three, when he is summoned by his Grandda into the library, and he tries not to blurt out, “I didn’t do it,” like when he was a kid. It’s that relatable thread, a grounding of her characters, that lets you make the jump to Scottish magic and have it be believable. Right when his Grandda says, “I have a present for ye”, I was all in on this story.
Rory Cameron is a veterinary technician. He’s proud of what he does. Receiving a revered and cherished, time-honored pocket watch from his Grandda humbles Rory and, at the same time, makes him question what the old man meant by the fact that the watch would help him sort his life. Was his life a mess and he just didn’t know it? At thirty-five, he’s happy. A little lonely…but happy. And then by chance (?), he runs into Deacon Phillips, a man he dated for what were probably the best three months of his life.
Deacon has come back to Syracuse for a fresh start. A concert pianist whose career was cut short by a car accident that crushed his hand, Deacon now teaches and plays for himself. He’s got no one, and he’s come back to the only place he was happy to start fresh. Running into Rory again seems like a total coincidence, but one he’s glad keeps happening. Rory is everything Deacon has been searching for, with his all-encompassing warm personality and extended, close family ties. Their chemistry together never dimmed, and finding Rory again makes Deacon want to grab him and never let go.
This is a sweet, incredibly romantic short with just the right amount of “magic”. It’s a feel-good story with no angst, and is all about falling in love. Bethke does a great job here with her characterizations, and the story flows smoothly from start to finish. Yes, you know what is going to happen, but hey, sometimes you just want the feels, and a story that puts a smile on your face and leaves you warm inside. I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
I love Kris T. Bethke’s writing style. She has an uplifting lilt to her works, all while creating depth of character, and this one is no exception. I fell in love with Rory, on page three, when he is summoned by his Grandda into the library, and he tries not to blurt out, “I didn’t do it,” like when he was a kid. It’s that relatable thread, a grounding of her characters, that lets you make the jump to Scottish magic and have it be believable. Right when his Grandda says, “I have a present for ye”, I was all in on this story.
Rory Cameron is a veterinary technician. He’s proud of what he does. Receiving a revered and cherished, time-honored pocket watch from his Grandda humbles Rory and, at the same time, makes him question what the old man meant by the fact that the watch would help him sort his life. Was his life a mess and he just didn’t know it? At thirty-five, he’s happy. A little lonely…but happy. And then by chance (?), he runs into Deacon Phillips, a man he dated for what were probably the best three months of his life.
Deacon has come back to Syracuse for a fresh start. A concert pianist whose career was cut short by a car accident that crushed his hand, Deacon now teaches and plays for himself. He’s got no one, and he’s come back to the only place he was happy to start fresh. Running into Rory again seems like a total coincidence, but one he’s glad keeps happening. Rory is everything Deacon has been searching for, with his all-encompassing warm personality and extended, close family ties. Their chemistry together never dimmed, and finding Rory again makes Deacon want to grab him and never let go.
This is a sweet, incredibly romantic short with just the right amount of “magic”. It’s a feel-good story with no angst, and is all about falling in love. Bethke does a great job here with her characterizations, and the story flows smoothly from start to finish. Yes, you know what is going to happen, but hey, sometimes you just want the feels, and a story that puts a smile on your face and leaves you warm inside. I highly recommend it.
Reviewed by Carrie for The Novel Approach
December 19, 2017
Rating 3.5 This is now one of my favorite second chance stories. The author did a great job of showing me a connection based on who they were now rather than who they had been. Rory and Deacon had a short romance in college but an opportunity for Deacon separated them without ire. Now back in the same town, they find that they have an equal amount of chemistry, both sexually and emotionally. I loved the way they opened up to each other, how honest they were about what their lives had been like and where they were now. I felt that I got to know the characters, even though the story was only novella length. The Christmas connection added warmth and provided some of their reason to spend time together. I found it well balanced in the story, holiday without being just about the holiday. The sex is pretty hot and in just the right amount. The angle with the pocket watch never really did it for me. The timing never seemed particularly portentous or instigating. I learned to just discard that element of the story and to just enjoy it for what it was, a lovely, spicy, Christmas connection full of promise for the future. I actually would have rated it higher if it was a longer work.
November 22, 2019
A Timely Gift is the story of vet tech, Rory, and ex-concert pianist Deacon. It’s told in first person from Rory’s pov.
This is a pleasant, low-key, holiday short story about two men in their mid-thirties. Rory’s grandfather gifts him a pocket watch on the winter solstice, ‘to help Rory get his life together,’ so his grandfather tells him. Rory is skeptical, but odd things start to happen once he receives it. One is running into his old lover Deacon. Teenagers when they were dating, they went their separate ways until Deacon moved back to town. The plot goes on to show the men renewing their friendship, and how at times, the watch behaves oddly.
I liked the characters and Rory’s African Grey, Apollo, who learns a new sound, lol.
A light, fast read, A Timely Gift is a sweet story for the holidays. I give this book, 3 Stars.
This is a pleasant, low-key, holiday short story about two men in their mid-thirties. Rory’s grandfather gifts him a pocket watch on the winter solstice, ‘to help Rory get his life together,’ so his grandfather tells him. Rory is skeptical, but odd things start to happen once he receives it. One is running into his old lover Deacon. Teenagers when they were dating, they went their separate ways until Deacon moved back to town. The plot goes on to show the men renewing their friendship, and how at times, the watch behaves oddly.
I liked the characters and Rory’s African Grey, Apollo, who learns a new sound, lol.
A light, fast read, A Timely Gift is a sweet story for the holidays. I give this book, 3 Stars.
January 3, 2018
3.5 stars.
This was a really lovely short story of second chances - facilitated by a potentially magical timepiece a and a wise grandfather. Rory and Deacon who were college lovers went their separate ways when Deacon was offered his dream position across the country. But it seems after 13 years, he's back in town and Rory just happens to run into him right before Christmas. They catch up a little, but leave it at that. But fate has more in store for them.
This was a really cute story - I really liked the MCs and the way the "magic" appeared in the story.
This was a really lovely short story of second chances - facilitated by a potentially magical timepiece a and a wise grandfather. Rory and Deacon who were college lovers went their separate ways when Deacon was offered his dream position across the country. But it seems after 13 years, he's back in town and Rory just happens to run into him right before Christmas. They catch up a little, but leave it at that. But fate has more in store for them.
This was a really cute story - I really liked the MCs and the way the "magic" appeared in the story.
June 18, 2023
2.5 stars
I enjoyed the MCs' interactions with each other, which was the majority of the book, but the writing for the internal dialog/in-between bits was a little ... stilted? Simplistic and over-written at the same time? It's a New To Me author, and I can't tell if a full-length novel with an actual plot would solve the problem or make it worse. But I do have some other books from the author on my TBR and I'm not against trying her again, so maybe I'll find out one day :)
I enjoyed the MCs' interactions with each other, which was the majority of the book, but the writing for the internal dialog/in-between bits was a little ... stilted? Simplistic and over-written at the same time? It's a New To Me author, and I can't tell if a full-length novel with an actual plot would solve the problem or make it worse. But I do have some other books from the author on my TBR and I'm not against trying her again, so maybe I'll find out one day :)
December 10, 2017
This was my favorite of the three books in today’s review. I’ve been a fan of Kris T. Bethke since the first book I read by her (which was Pumpkin Rolls and Porn Sounds which I read only because of the fabulous title and definitely didn’t regret it!) I love her writing style and her characters and she delivered on both counts in this story.
I love second chance stories and when stories are infused with tiny glimpses of unexplained magic. This isn’t a paranormal story. It’s a contemporary story with a twist and I loved how the pocketwatch “interfered” in just the right times. Both characters were great and I really loved that they both still feel the attraction even after all the years that passed since they were together.
My favorite character probably was Apollo the Parrot though. Read it and you’ll understand why.
Also: extra kudos for writing a bi character without making a big deal about it. As a bi person myself, I appreciate it a lot 🙂
I love second chance stories and when stories are infused with tiny glimpses of unexplained magic. This isn’t a paranormal story. It’s a contemporary story with a twist and I loved how the pocketwatch “interfered” in just the right times. Both characters were great and I really loved that they both still feel the attraction even after all the years that passed since they were together.
My favorite character probably was Apollo the Parrot though. Read it and you’ll understand why.
Also: extra kudos for writing a bi character without making a big deal about it. As a bi person myself, I appreciate it a lot 🙂
November 22, 2020
Totally cute. Rory’s pagan grandfather gives him a watch a couple of days before Christmas with a cryptic message regarding building a family. A short bit later, he runs into his college ex, Deacon, with whom he had an amicable breakup. It was great to see them reconnect and spend the holidays together. Super sweet.
December 13, 2017
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating 4 stars out of 5
for the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-cq5 on 12/14
for all our review, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating 4 stars out of 5
for the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-cq5 on 12/14
for all our review, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
December 19, 2018
A fairly easy story, with Rory’s pov. Didn’t get to hear Deacon’s thoughts.
Rory’s Grandda gives him a watch - but does it reintroduce Rory and Deacon or is it just serendipity?!
Second chance Christmas romance.
Rory’s Grandda gives him a watch - but does it reintroduce Rory and Deacon or is it just serendipity?!
Second chance Christmas romance.
December 24, 2017
This story is filled with the special magic this season brings. What Rory's gift seems to time things perfectly. It is the start of a whole new wonderful connection.
December 24, 2017
3,75 stars
I really liked it and found it was just right for a cute little holiday read.
I really liked it and found it was just right for a cute little holiday read.
September 10, 2018
3.5 Stars
December 18, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
This was a cute second chance at love for Rory and Deacon. I liked that they held no hard feelings about their previous separation but were open to at least having friendship with each other even if it became more and was nice and open-ended. Now, I do have to say the blurb makes it sound like if Rory doesn’t find love by Christmas he never will and at no point in the story was that even brought up or thought and that just feels like false advertising of the story.
The cover art by Written Ink Designs is nice and works well for the story.
Rating: 3 stars out of 5
This was a cute second chance at love for Rory and Deacon. I liked that they held no hard feelings about their previous separation but were open to at least having friendship with each other even if it became more and was nice and open-ended. Now, I do have to say the blurb makes it sound like if Rory doesn’t find love by Christmas he never will and at no point in the story was that even brought up or thought and that just feels like false advertising of the story.
The cover art by Written Ink Designs is nice and works well for the story.
December 14, 2017
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I really enjoyed the magical element of A Timely Gift. Whether it’s solstice magic or Christmas magic matters not as Rory’s enchanted pocket watch does exactly what his grandfather says it will – sort his life out by Christmas Day. While the skeptic would view Rory’s reconnecting with an ex as no more than a series of coincidences, the romantic will delight in the seemingly magical nudges that Rory’s pocket watch provides to keep the guys on track for their second chance at love together.
One of the things I really liked about this second chance romance is that Rory and Deacon’s parting was completely amicable rather than being due to a miscommunication or someone splitting them up. Because their initial relationship ended before major commitments were made, there are no hurt feelings to overcome. This lets the progress that is made in the story’s short timeline feel realistic as Rory and Deacon get caught up on one another’s lives over the past few years and discover that the spark is still there. Apollo’s mimicking abilities and Rory’s grandfather added delightful touches to an enjoyable holiday story.
Please note: My review is of an unedited, pre-release copy of this book and assumes that any errors were corrected prior to publication.
I really enjoyed the magical element of A Timely Gift. Whether it’s solstice magic or Christmas magic matters not as Rory’s enchanted pocket watch does exactly what his grandfather says it will – sort his life out by Christmas Day. While the skeptic would view Rory’s reconnecting with an ex as no more than a series of coincidences, the romantic will delight in the seemingly magical nudges that Rory’s pocket watch provides to keep the guys on track for their second chance at love together.
One of the things I really liked about this second chance romance is that Rory and Deacon’s parting was completely amicable rather than being due to a miscommunication or someone splitting them up. Because their initial relationship ended before major commitments were made, there are no hurt feelings to overcome. This lets the progress that is made in the story’s short timeline feel realistic as Rory and Deacon get caught up on one another’s lives over the past few years and discover that the spark is still there. Apollo’s mimicking abilities and Rory’s grandfather added delightful touches to an enjoyable holiday story.
Please note: My review is of an unedited, pre-release copy of this book and assumes that any errors were corrected prior to publication.
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January 17, 2018 4 Hearts
A second chance romance fueled by a fated pocket watch at Christmas? Shut up and take my money!
First I have to say that I loved Rory’s Grandda and chuckled when he called Rory a daft idiot when Rory questioned him. His Grandda loves Rory and only wants the best for him so on the night of the Winter Solstice, he gives Rory an old pocket watch that will help him sort out his life.
Rory isn’t one to believe in fate but the watch is gorgeous and a family heirloom so he accepts the gift and goes about working his shift at the Animal Clinic as a vet tech. When his shift ends he decides to grab a quick coffee and is met by his past in the form of his college boyfriend Deacon.
These two were so damn adorable from the get go I couldn't read this fast enough. I loved that they remembered so much about one another even after 13 years apart when Deacon left to fulfill his career dream of playing piano with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. It was a bittersweet goodbye but they’d only been together a few short months and Rory is a good guy and would never stand in Deacon’s way. But now, Deacon is back and Rory is single and the damn watch is loud enough to make both men pause to really see what’s in front of them.
This had everything a holiday romance should have in it including a comedic pet in the form of an African Grey who can mimic all sorts of sounds and um, moans, family that loves when Rory is happy and easily accepts Deacon into the fold. This story has the offering of two men who were parted by circumstance to have fate step in to bring them together in hopes for a future that time will stand still for, or at least a watch that will keep time as they grow old together.
A second chance romance fueled by a fated pocket watch at Christmas? Shut up and take my money!
First I have to say that I loved Rory’s Grandda and chuckled when he called Rory a daft idiot when Rory questioned him. His Grandda loves Rory and only wants the best for him so on the night of the Winter Solstice, he gives Rory an old pocket watch that will help him sort out his life.
Rory isn’t one to believe in fate but the watch is gorgeous and a family heirloom so he accepts the gift and goes about working his shift at the Animal Clinic as a vet tech. When his shift ends he decides to grab a quick coffee and is met by his past in the form of his college boyfriend Deacon.
These two were so damn adorable from the get go I couldn't read this fast enough. I loved that they remembered so much about one another even after 13 years apart when Deacon left to fulfill his career dream of playing piano with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. It was a bittersweet goodbye but they’d only been together a few short months and Rory is a good guy and would never stand in Deacon’s way. But now, Deacon is back and Rory is single and the damn watch is loud enough to make both men pause to really see what’s in front of them.
This had everything a holiday romance should have in it including a comedic pet in the form of an African Grey who can mimic all sorts of sounds and um, moans, family that loves when Rory is happy and easily accepts Deacon into the fold. This story has the offering of two men who were parted by circumstance to have fate step in to bring them together in hopes for a future that time will stand still for, or at least a watch that will keep time as they grow old together.
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