A Very Dare Christmas

Dare to Love #6.5

by Carly Phillips

A short story that follows Ian and Riley at Christmas.

Free short story for Carly Phillips's newsletter subscribers only.

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Holiday, Contemporary Romance, Novella, Contemporary, Anthologies

Unknown Binding

First published December 6, 2017

About the author

NY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.

Reviews

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

**This novella was previously a gift from Carly to her newsletter subscribers, many have asked for it to be published in e-book form.**


Busy lives and children has both Ian and Riley Dare (from Dare to Love) feeling a bit disconnected from each other, but Ian has plans and surprises Riley with a trip before the holidays for them to reconnect in decadently delicious ways. I loved seeing how much this couple missed their carefree days before kids and that it took no time at all for them to rekindle their smoldering sexuality. Once home we catch up with all the Dares as they celebrate the Christmas holiday filled with food, fun, presents, and the usual family teasing.

Part sexy romp and part family goodness, A Very Dare Christmas was all kinds of delicious!

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.

[Taryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful holiday short that gives you a glimpse into Ian and Riley's life a few years down the road after marriage and a child. It is a great look at what they are doing now, how they have grown and how love is still in their hearts. The interaction between the two shows that they are very much still in love and the future is something to cherish and look forward to. I enjoyed getting to revisit these two and look forward to maybe looking at others in the series and where they are at now.

[Coco.V]

🎁FREE on Amazon & on Apple Books today (12/16/2020)!🎁

[Melissa ❤️ bookaddict_fanatic · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love the Dare family and want a quick sneak peek into the family during Christmas then this is the book you want! This story focuses on Ian and Riley rekindling their romance that has taken a backseat to their family. This novella was steamy, sexy and hot, hot, hot! Ian Dare does not mess around and be wanted to show his wife just how much he missed her. We also got to see a glimpse of the entire Dare family which was fun, crazy and heartwarming so grab your copy today!

[Kari · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Dare Christmas is a quick holiday novella that features Ian and Riley. They were the main characters of the first Dare story, Dare to Love. I'll admit to having not read that particular book. However, this little novella can definitely be read as a stand alone. It's about two people who find a way to rekindle the intense connection that they had when they first got together. Kids and careers have gotten in the way. This is a really cute story. I loved these two characters and how they were able to communicate their feelings. I highly recommend this one. It's a quick read and perfect to get you into the holiday spirit.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

The love and chemistry that Ian and Riley share hasn’t diminished but balancing careers, responsibilities and two young children doesn’t leave them with enough time or energy for the two of them. Ian is determined to make some changes and it starts with taking Riley away for the weekend with no distractions except each other.

After their trip they return home for a family filled holiday that gives us a chance to catch up with all the characters we know and love and experience the love and closeness that this family shares which is sure to put you in the Christmas spirit.

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sizzling seasonal romance is a quick read and just perfect when you can find a brief time to escape from all of the holiday craziness. Revisit Ian and Riley Dare as they reignite the spark in their marriage, and spend a little time with all the loveable cast of the Dare family. Whether you're waiting for the cookies to bake or sneaking in a bubble bath, this is the perfect short story to put you in the holiday spirit!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this short story. You get to catch up with the Dares during the holiday season. Though this story revolves around Ian and Riley. Them taking the time for them and to reconnect with life and responsibilities taking up most of their time. This was enjoyable and can be read rather quickly. Fans of the Dares or Carly Phillips will enjoy this bonus story.

[Whit · Rating 2 out of 5]

18 pages=a really, really short story!!!! Between their kids and Ian's job as the owner of the Miami Thunder football team, Riley and Ian's marriage as well as their "alone time" has really suffered. So Ian steals Riley away and jets them off to Turks and Caicos. And where's the rest??? (eBook edition)

[Jessica Alcazar · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're a Carly fan and subscribe to her newsletter then you more than likely have read this. I'm a fan but newsletters are not my superpower LOL so I was delighted to dig in!

Sexy and fun with all the holiday spirit you could ask for! #win

[Becky Claxon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet, short Christmas story that brings the Dare family together. I loved that Ian saw how tired and wore out Riley is that he planned a few days away for them to reconnect. But it is always nice to catch up with past characters. I loved the Christmas present Riley gave Ian.. I encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Ellen Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Dare Christmas

Always great to have a peek at what is going on in the lives of some of our favorite characters. Like an extra epilogue.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great short story/novella. It was great to catch up with Ian and Riley. Ian hasn't changed much and Riley loves him anyway. They each accept each other for who they are. They've made a lovely and happy life together. It was nice to get a glimpse.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute short story about Ian and Riley Dare and their planning for a holiday gathering. Carly knocks this one out as always. Highly recommend this quick read.

[Jo Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick and dirty
5 stars

This short story from Carly Phillips is here just in time for Christmas, and gives fans a quick and dirty glimpse of the Dares, and especially Ian and Riley, who originally appeared in Ms Phillips’ Dare to Love (the first of the original Dare stories). I’ve not read that book (yet) but I completely understood and enjoyed this story - so I’m happy to say it stands alone.

Ian Dare is an alpha man who knows what he wants and is determined to get it. He sees his wife under pressure, and is hell bent on fixing her problems - especially if that means the pair can spend more time together as a couple. Who doesn’t want a man who puts you first and is determined to make all your problems disappear? And I just loved that Riley is strong and capable enough to let Ian take care of her, knowing that she’s really the one with the power.

Just reading about this short period in Riley and Ian’s lives makes me doubly determined to read Dare to Love and all the other Dare books I’ve not yet got around to reading.

And I always love reading about a married couple. It's like an extra epilogue - and I do so love an epilogue.

This book is short, dirty and full of Carly Phillips’ usual superb writing and engaging dialogue. If you’re a fan, then this book is a must for you. If you’re new to Ms Phillips - this will give you a good taster and leave you hungry for more. 5 stars for this fun story.


**This story was first made available in Ms Phillips’ newsletter, so subscribers may have read this before.**

[Toi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick Read

What a great way to catch up with the Dare's and to get a few surprises too, lots of warm fuzzy feelings.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK: Re-Release November 12, 2019

Ian Dare misses the alone time and intense sex life he and his wife shared before their children were born. What’s an alpha man to do? He kidnaps Riley for an erotic weekend away before the Christmas rush overwhelms them both.

Riley Dare adores her husband and his dominant and protective ways, and she’s excited to spend time with him minus distractions on a sexy retreat where anything goes … and spontaneity leads to future surprises.

A complete stand-alone for people who haven’t yet read Dare to Love but a special treat for those who want to revisit their favorite couple.

NOTE: this short story was already shared in Carly’s newsletter so if you subscribe you may have read it before but many have asked if they could have this on their Kindle.


•••••••••••

REVIEW: A VERY DARE CHRISTMAS by Carly Phillips is a contemporary, adult erotic romance short story found in the author’s Dare to Love series focusing on the Dare siblings. A VERY DARE CHRISTMAS gives the reader another look at Ian and Riley Dare (Dare to Love #1), as they struggle with life, love, children and the upcoming holidays.

NOTE: A VERY DARE CHRISTMAS was originally released as a newsletter short story for all of the author’s newsletter subscribers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Ian and Riley) A VERY DARE CHRISTMAS focuses on the hectic lifestyle of Ian and Riley Dare. As the holidays approach Riley Dare struggles to do it all including shopping for gifts for her husband’s large extended family, but a surprise awaits Riley upon her return home, a surprise that sweeps Riley on a romantic vacation with the man whom she loves more than her life. Ian Dare is determined to make his wife’s life a little bit easier, starting with some time alone in a tropical paradise.

A VERY DARE CHRISTMAS is a quick read; a fast paced, spicy and sexy short story that focuses on romance, family, and love; on one couple’s need for some alone time, time spent getting to know one another, again.

Copy supplied for review

[Nisey Crossin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ian Dare misses his special time with his wife, so he has a special surprise for her when he notices how tired she seems to be these days. Riley loves her two children but admits that the days can be hectic with the two little ones. She is often too tired for that special alone time she cherishes with her handsome dominating husband. Ian knows that Riley wants to raise their children without the help of nannies and sitters, however he doesn't like the toll its taking on her to handle all things on her own so he plans a special getaway for the two of them to recharge. While Riley is busy planning and shopping for Christmas Ian takes it upon himself to plan a beach vacation, full of romance and tons of alone time just the two of them. After taking care of the children the two take off for their weekend and Ian insists when they return they are hiring a part time Nanny and house keeper to help Riley, after all what's a man supposed to do with all his money if he can't take care of his family and give his one and only true love some help.

After returning home we get to spend the Christmas with the entire Dare clan, including the New York cousins and their families and Riley has the best Christmas surprise of all, thanks to their special time together a few weeks ago.

Take a trip back into the Dare world and get to know everyone and the children just a little more and experience where it began with the one and only Ian Dare and his feisty Riley! This was a treat to get to visit with this family again and see where they are in their lives right now. You'll enjoy this short story immensely if you love the Dares!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a super short holiday story about the Dare family. I've always adored the Dares, and I always love catching up with them, any way I can.

Ian and Riley Dare have been married for a while now, and they've got 2 young kids. They've lost touch with each other in the day-to-day bustle, and Ian figures out a way for them to reconnect quickly, just the two of them. While they're on vacation they come to some compromises about what things need to change in their lives to make sure this disconnect doesn't happen again.

Ian Dare can be very high-handed and bossy, and Riley has always tempered that in him, to both their betterment. I love their dynamic, and how they still complete each other, after marriage and babies. Riley wants to do it all herself, but sometimes you just have to learn to admit when you need help.

I feel like this would be a decent entry point for a new reader, to get a little intro to the family, and to want to learn more about their VERY interesting history, and mega family drama. But, as a long time reader of the series, it was a warm, sexy, and sweet epilogue for some of my favorite characters the author has ever created. I highly recommend it!

ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club

[CarolKat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I originally read this in Carly's newsletter, but I didn't remember it until I started reading.

I love the Dare family and I have read the whole Dare to Love series although I haven't yet reviewed them all. I'll have to get on that!

This is a short and steamy read as the holiday approaches. Ian and Riley haven't had much alone time, Riley is exhausted and pushing to get the holiday shopping done. When Ian calls she is sure his family is growing as they speak since she realized there were folks she didn't have on her list. Now he's meeting her at home.

Once on the private plane, Ian reveals where he's taking her and after reassuring her his mother can handle the children he concentrates on her.
I can't say much about the book without giving things away but I love this book! These two are so perfect together and the romance and heat is off the charts sizzling.

I am going to go back and do a re-read of their story in Dare to Love.

Thank you for releasing this story to everyone Carly. It reminded me why I love these books.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ian and Riley are married, and have 2 kids. This is a novella about them, that comes after their book Dare to Love. Ian surprises Riley with a vacation, without the kids. The go to the Caribbean. They make love, talk about how much they love each other and their family, and make some decisions to make their home lives easier, and also try for another baby. The weekend ends, and they head back home. A few weeks later they have a Christmas party, all of Robert Dare's kids attend. We get to see the kids, their husbands or wives and kids they have. Ian's Mom has the flu, and Riley's is out of town so they are the only ones not there. Ian pulls her to another room, where she tells him they will soon be a family of 5 and their daughter needs some assistance. The end.
A small short look into the family. Would love to read more catch ups for this family.

I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Very Dare Christmas is a Christmas story that I can ABSOLUTELY get behind, and will read it every Christmas. It's a short(ish) read surrounding Ian & Riley's life some years later after marriage and a tiny human. It's another BRILLIANT read by the brilliant Carly Phillips, and though I wanted so much more because I'm that addicted, it didn't change the fact that I LOVED every minute which doesn't always happen when I read novellas. I love that every interaction still shows the love, even around the craziness of the holidays, and I found myself sighing more than once. This was such an amazing gift, that I pray that Ms. Phillips does this with all the couples that we love! And now, it's time for y'all to hit your own one click buttons since I'm making this review short & sweet to keep spoilers out of the mix! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!

[2kasmom · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book #6.5 from the Dare To Love series. This book can be read as a standalone novel, but I would not recommend this. Reading these in order helps to avoid spoilers and gives a full understanding of such a deliciously sexy family series.

Ian misses alone time with his wife. Surprises can be fun. He plans a Christmas present for both by making the time.

Riley cannot believe how tired she is lately. She is wishing she had more time for all the directions she feels pulled in.

This was a short, sexy, and sweet stop back into see where the characters were in their lives. My only complaint was that it was too short. My joy was that they are great together.


***This copy was provided for review purposes only.

[Kim Worley · Rating 5 out of 5]

In all of the Dare Family Ian and Riley have always been by favorite.

So when Ian realized that life is kind of getting in the way alone time with his wife, he finds a way to make some alone time with his wife. Which is so wonderful for a man to realize and do.

This gives you a little glimpse of Ian and Riley again and lets you feel how strong their love is and lets you feel like you are still right there involved in their life and story.

I received this book as and ARC review from the author and I recommend that you ready it and all of the Dare books. I can promise you WILL NOT be disappointed.

Carly Phillips is one of the greatest writers I have ever read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sue Galuska · Rating 5 out of 5]

We get a quick, sneak peak into Ian and Riley's life just before Christmas! Now with two small kids, Ian and Riley are finding out that they don't have much time left in their busy lives for each other because of the kids. So what does Ian do, he whisks his wife off for a sexy weekend getaway to a tropical island....clothes optional! While being secluded away for a few glorious days, Ian and Riley realize that they need to spend a little more time focusing on themselves. When their weekend is over, they come back to have a wonderful Christmas holiday filled with family, food and a few little miracles!

I just adored this quick read. Ian is by far my favorite Dare man and it was fun revisiting him and Riley!

[Franci N (Franci's Fabulous Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4 Happy Dare Holidays to Me Stars!!!

I’ve been a fan of The Dare Family since the very first book I read in the series, which coincidently was Ian and Riley’s story!! Getting this peek into their lives now that they’ve been married a few years with their kids who are cute as buttons.

What definitely hasn’t changed is Ian and his alpha protective instincts when it comes to Riley and now their kids. One thing for sure is those kids have him wrapped around their little fingers and I cracked up at some of Rainey’s antics!

In this very short and sexy read we get a little update on the entire Dare family as well as some oh so sexy times between our H/h! I highly recommend this read to get you in the spirit of the holidays and getting caught up with your favorite characters!

[Tracy Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I missed Ian and Riley. They are such a good couple.

Ian and Riley need alone time. With 2 small children, they don’t seem to get much of that. So, when Ian decides to surprise Riley with a weekend getaway, she is more than happy to go. Alone for the weekend, Ian and Riley are able to reconnect on a passionate level, something that they have been missing since having so much responsibility at home. But what happens when two people spend the weekend in bed with no distractions? Let’s just say, they will be happy to add more responsibility to their everyday lives.

This was a very quick read but it was so awesome to be able to revisit some of my favorite couples.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Crystal's Book World ~ Crystal Cordova · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Ian Dare and so excited we get to revisit our favorite hero and beautiful wife. A Very Dare Christmas is a short Novella that heats up right away! Its about rekindling the spark! It's about bringing the heat! Then at the end of the day, its all about family <3 Great Novella to get you ready for the holidays!

[Lisa Spofford · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love getting the chance to check back with beloved characters to see if their happily ever after stays that way. Experiencing Ian and Riley in their life together, struggling with the challenges all marriages face and their determination to make things work was great. If I hadn’t read so many Dare stories, I would have enjoyed the beginning of this story and less so the end where the family all make appearances. I would recommend that a reader plow through all the Dare stories prior to reading this novella. It is the best way to get the most out of it. As always, I love the world that Carly Phillips created and enjoyed the opportunity to read about it once more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kanwarpal Singh · Rating 2 out of 5]

Busy lives and children has both Ian and Riley Dare (from Dare to Love) feeling a bit disconnected from each other, but Ian has plans and surprises Riley with a trip before the holidays for them to reconnect in intimate loving and time for each other to know what they want in there relationship .

I loved seeing how much this couple missed their carefree days before kids and that it took no time at all for them to rekindle their smoldering sexuality. Once home we catch up with all the Dares as they celebrate the Christmas holiday filled with food, fun, presents, and the usual family teasing, as Riley is again pregnant and they have to take it slowly now as there relationship is advancing to next left after the second child on the way