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Old Acquaintance
There are two sides to every story, even those buried in the past.
When Sam spots the hot guy moving in next door, he’s all for going round to introduce himself. That soon changes when it turns out his new neighbour is Charles Whitmore, an old school acquaintance. Sam didn’t like him back then, for good reason, and fifteen years haven’t altered that.
Splitting up from his long-term boyfriend means a move across the city for Charlie. As luck would have it, his immediate neighbour is a guy he went to school with, Sam Gellar. While Sam is less than welcoming, his best mate is more than happy to invite Charlie into their social circle. Whatever problem Sam has with him, Charlie resolves to get to the bottom of it because, frosty beginnings aside, Charlie likes him.
With Christmas just around the corner, fate pushes them together, and they get on much better than they ever did at school. Despite his efforts not to, Sam develops feelings for Charlie, and they appear to be reciprocated. If Sam wants to take things further, he needs to either confront Charlie about their past—a past Charlie seems to have forgotten entirely—or let it go and move on. Sam knows deep down that he can’t let it go, but can’t find the right time to bring it up either.
When Sam spots the hot guy moving in next door, he’s all for going round to introduce himself. That soon changes when it turns out his new neighbour is Charles Whitmore, an old school acquaintance. Sam didn’t like him back then, for good reason, and fifteen years haven’t altered that.
Splitting up from his long-term boyfriend means a move across the city for Charlie. As luck would have it, his immediate neighbour is a guy he went to school with, Sam Gellar. While Sam is less than welcoming, his best mate is more than happy to invite Charlie into their social circle. Whatever problem Sam has with him, Charlie resolves to get to the bottom of it because, frosty beginnings aside, Charlie likes him.
With Christmas just around the corner, fate pushes them together, and they get on much better than they ever did at school. Despite his efforts not to, Sam develops feelings for Charlie, and they appear to be reciprocated. If Sam wants to take things further, he needs to either confront Charlie about their past—a past Charlie seems to have forgotten entirely—or let it go and move on. Sam knows deep down that he can’t let it go, but can’t find the right time to bring it up either.
133 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2018
25 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Jacobs
52 books405 followersAnnabelle Jacobs lives in the South West of England with her three rowdy children, and two cats.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
December 10, 2018
~2.5~
My favorite part was the epilogue.
The rest of the story was Sam holding a grudge against Charlie based on something he didn't even witness but heard from Nigel, a former friend who was always an arse and turned out to be a raging homophobe.
Nigel was not exactly a reliable witness, but Sam acted like his word was gold and never discussed the issue with Charlie, even after they started dating.
Charlie was a nice guy, but Sam annoyed me almost the entire time.
I liked the cat. The story was forgettable.
My favorite part was the epilogue.
The rest of the story was Sam holding a grudge against Charlie based on something he didn't even witness but heard from Nigel, a former friend who was always an arse and turned out to be a raging homophobe.
Nigel was not exactly a reliable witness, but Sam acted like his word was gold and never discussed the issue with Charlie, even after they started dating.
Charlie was a nice guy, but Sam annoyed me almost the entire time.
I liked the cat. The story was forgettable.
December 6, 2018
This story could have been perfection if only Sam discussed his grudge with Charlie immediately rather than like 50% into the book. At least if he had we would not have had to wait so long for the first kiss and second kiss. That said in all else I LOVE Sam and Charlie... and really love tyhem together. I am a bit of an Anglophile so the British setting was music to my ears. Once Sam and Charlie were a couple they were so sweet, adorable and charming... just would have loved more of them together. I am very thankful for the epilogue as I can never get enough of them together!
December 9, 2018
This is a no-angst and sweet romance between two guys who become neighbors a few weeks before Christmas and happened to have been in the same school. Some rumors from that time come back to mind, but Sam and Charlie are now adults and learning to communicate so that their tentative friendship and attraction can lead them towards a nice HEA, with moments spent with friends or family and preparing Christmas.
It’s a cozy read of an unassuming and down-to-earth romance. No big sparks, but it’s well written with a British touch that I enjoyed. Suited for a lazy Sunday afternoon when in need of tender feels delivered with some wintery and Christmas spirit.
ARC of “Old Acquaintance” was generously provided by the tour organizer in exchange for an honest review
It’s a cozy read of an unassuming and down-to-earth romance. No big sparks, but it’s well written with a British touch that I enjoyed. Suited for a lazy Sunday afternoon when in need of tender feels delivered with some wintery and Christmas spirit.
ARC of “Old Acquaintance” was generously provided by the tour organizer in exchange for an honest review
November 29, 2018
Sometimes I just want to read an uncomplicated story in which two people fall in love and that's what Annabelle gave me.
I like reading about books set in other places but, as a Brit, one of the things I love most is a story which is full of familiar things.
The pub, the piss taking, the language and the slang used are all comforting, going for a curry for Christmas, tradesmen expecting the kettle to be on as soon as they enter your house. All these things warm my heart.
Most of the tension in this romance come from a 15 year misunderstanding and while it could have been solved earlier, I actually liked that the narrative choices took their time in getting to that point.
It meant there was a lovely slow burn friendship first element to a lot of the story and when Sam finally realised he'd fallen for Charlie, it was even if the incident had happened as he'd been told.
Festive romances for me are all about evoking these feelings of friendship, of traditions, good company and fine times. This absolutely won on that score for me.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I like reading about books set in other places but, as a Brit, one of the things I love most is a story which is full of familiar things.
The pub, the piss taking, the language and the slang used are all comforting, going for a curry for Christmas, tradesmen expecting the kettle to be on as soon as they enter your house. All these things warm my heart.
Most of the tension in this romance come from a 15 year misunderstanding and while it could have been solved earlier, I actually liked that the narrative choices took their time in getting to that point.
It meant there was a lovely slow burn friendship first element to a lot of the story and when Sam finally realised he'd fallen for Charlie, it was even if the incident had happened as he'd been told.
Festive romances for me are all about evoking these feelings of friendship, of traditions, good company and fine times. This absolutely won on that score for me.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
December 2, 2018
A really nice (and British) Christmas story!
+1 ⭐ for the epilogue!!
Recommend 😊
+1 ⭐ for the epilogue!!
Recommend 😊
December 7, 2018
Un libro sencillo, sereno, muy british, un slow born bonito. Gente normal que se enamora.
December 11, 2018
3.5 Stars
Once the misunderstanding and non-communication issues were dealt with, this turned out to be a sweet story. I was so frustrated with how Sam would just let the resentment simmer while struggling with his attraction to Charlie but I could sort of understand it; despite getting a different sense of Charlie (one of being a caring, stand-up guy), it's hard to trust right away. What's a few weeks acquaintance compared to half a life of thinking something else happened?
So yeah, the story turned around a little more than half-way through and I'm happy for that. Plus, I have to give credit for two ordinary blokes, doing well-needed but ordinary blue-collar jobs. It may be more represented in MM Romance than I'm familiar with, but not a typical set-up.
Once the misunderstanding and non-communication issues were dealt with, this turned out to be a sweet story. I was so frustrated with how Sam would just let the resentment simmer while struggling with his attraction to Charlie but I could sort of understand it; despite getting a different sense of Charlie (one of being a caring, stand-up guy), it's hard to trust right away. What's a few weeks acquaintance compared to half a life of thinking something else happened?
So yeah, the story turned around a little more than half-way through and I'm happy for that. Plus, I have to give credit for two ordinary blokes, doing well-needed but ordinary blue-collar jobs. It may be more represented in MM Romance than I'm familiar with, but not a typical set-up.
November 29, 2018
Lovely book about neighbors falling in love in the month or so before Christmas.
Nice slow burn, for the most part good communication, and I enjoyed the cat that seemed to prefer Sam to his owner.
*ARC provided by author
Nice slow burn, for the most part good communication, and I enjoyed the cat that seemed to prefer Sam to his owner.
*ARC provided by author
November 26, 2018
A low angst holiday read about two former schoolmates. They haven't seen each other for 15 years, but when Charlie moves in next door to Sam, Sam immediately remembers why he doesn't like the guy. But a lot can change in 15 years, can't it? I enjoyed watching Charlie and Sam work through old feelings and misunderstandings so they could have a future together. A very cute story, not to mention that Charlie has a cat named Storm whom I adored.
December 10, 2018
I hate doing this to a well-meaning Christmas novella, especially when all the other reviews think this is a sweet story. It's not not sweet, it's just...oh dear... rather boring. The MCs are separated for most of the book by a misunderstanding that should have been sorted in their first conversation; and to be fair, it's all Annabelle Jacobs' fault that they don't - the MCs spend far more time with their family and friends than they do with each other.
I've just read a book in which I complained about insta-lust and insta-hate; here, I've got the opposite problem. The relationship takes SO LONG to get going, with obstacles rooted fifteen years in the past, that it's really hard to care about either MC. There is no real UST when conversations like this are the norm:-
Wanting to keep the conversation going, Charlie pointed at the flooring again. “So is this special kitchen stuff then?”
“Yep.” Sam tapped the piece he’d just laid. “It’s got a real wood top layer and is highly resistant to moisture and temperature changes.”
Many worse stories have been published. And Annabelle Jacobs takes her characters on an unobjectionable journey from A to HEA. I wish it weren't all quite so pedestrian.
I received a free ARC of this book from Signal Boost Promotions in exchange for my unbiased review.
I've just read a book in which I complained about insta-lust and insta-hate; here, I've got the opposite problem. The relationship takes SO LONG to get going, with obstacles rooted fifteen years in the past, that it's really hard to care about either MC. There is no real UST when conversations like this are the norm:-
Wanting to keep the conversation going, Charlie pointed at the flooring again. “So is this special kitchen stuff then?”
“Yep.” Sam tapped the piece he’d just laid. “It’s got a real wood top layer and is highly resistant to moisture and temperature changes.”
Many worse stories have been published. And Annabelle Jacobs takes her characters on an unobjectionable journey from A to HEA. I wish it weren't all quite so pedestrian.
I received a free ARC of this book from Signal Boost Promotions in exchange for my unbiased review.
December 13, 2018
Old Acquaintance has a touch of enemies to lovers…I say a touch since only Sam has this notion, and honestly he wavers about that pretty quickly once he and Charlie are around each other more. This story is relatively low angst, and of the bit there is it actually resolves pretty quickly once brought to the surface.
Sam was basically a nice guy, though his old grudge against Charlie grew a little tiresome after a while. Once that’s resolved, and a little later in the book when Sam is finally reassured of his place in Charlie’s life, I felt more at ease with his character. Charlie is very sweet, he was definitely my favorite of the two. Putting Sam’s whole grudge thing aside, everything else between them was great and they did fit well together.
Some other things I liked about this story: There are some good, solid secondary characters here, especially Sam’s best friend Dave. There’s not really any major conflict in the book, which is exactly how I prefer holiday romances—less crazy and more cozy. The epilogue made for a nice revisit to Sam and Charlie a year later, with a feel-good ending that made me smile.
Though you might feel a little put out with Sam’s mostly internalized grudge, Old Acquaintance is still a good holiday romance that deserves a slot in your library and was somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars for me. The physical intimacy is pretty light, but even so there’s enough along with the adult language to make this one for readers 18+.
Sam was basically a nice guy, though his old grudge against Charlie grew a little tiresome after a while. Once that’s resolved, and a little later in the book when Sam is finally reassured of his place in Charlie’s life, I felt more at ease with his character. Charlie is very sweet, he was definitely my favorite of the two. Putting Sam’s whole grudge thing aside, everything else between them was great and they did fit well together.
Some other things I liked about this story: There are some good, solid secondary characters here, especially Sam’s best friend Dave. There’s not really any major conflict in the book, which is exactly how I prefer holiday romances—less crazy and more cozy. The epilogue made for a nice revisit to Sam and Charlie a year later, with a feel-good ending that made me smile.
Though you might feel a little put out with Sam’s mostly internalized grudge, Old Acquaintance is still a good holiday romance that deserves a slot in your library and was somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars for me. The physical intimacy is pretty light, but even so there’s enough along with the adult language to make this one for readers 18+.
December 6, 2018
2.5
I'm a fan of Ms. Jacobs paranormal books so it was no question if I read her Christmas story but somehow I never got into it.
Started right away that I couldn't believe the attraction Charlie felt for Sam or why Sam held onto his grudge - I mean if the reason for that grudge happened like he believes then I don't get why he's drawn to Charlie but then knowing quite early that the guy planting that grudge into Sam's mind isn't quite trustworthy ... no, makes no sense to base a complete story on it where actually nothing more happens and the Christmas vibe is coming only from a lot of snow and Holiday decoration. I liked the English setting, though.
I'm a fan of Ms. Jacobs paranormal books so it was no question if I read her Christmas story but somehow I never got into it.
Started right away that I couldn't believe the attraction Charlie felt for Sam or why Sam held onto his grudge - I mean if the reason for that grudge happened like he believes then I don't get why he's drawn to Charlie but then knowing quite early that the guy planting that grudge into Sam's mind isn't quite trustworthy ... no, makes no sense to base a complete story on it where actually nothing more happens and the Christmas vibe is coming only from a lot of snow and Holiday decoration. I liked the English setting, though.
May 30, 2021
This was a story about two neighbors, who were in the same school together. One recently moved in next to the other. They say, it is a second chance romance but Charley does not even remember Sam. The story is about Sam holding a grudge for something he believes happened and Charley being oblivious. The progress was so slow it was exhausting.
December 17, 2018
This one has me waffling.
On one hand...I enjoyed it.
But on the other, I was irritated with Sam for most of the story.
I *liked* Sam enough but frustration raged as their "miscommunication" dragged.
It's not really a second chance because they weren't anything that would count as the first time. Just high school peers. One with questionable taste in friends which lead to...the lie.
And I was disappointed that Sam continued to hold onto this 'fact' despite other evidence proving Nigel's friendships integrity.
Charlie is awesome and thankfully, quite forgiving.
Still had Jacob's usual charm.
Adored the kit-kat.
Loved the ending.
Wouldn't advise you against it but have loads of other AJ's tales that I would recommend first.
*somewhere's between 3/3.5/4 stars*
On one hand...I enjoyed it.
But on the other, I was irritated with Sam for most of the story.
I *liked* Sam enough but frustration raged as their "miscommunication" dragged.
It's not really a second chance because they weren't anything that would count as the first time. Just high school peers. One with questionable taste in friends which lead to...the lie.
And I was disappointed that Sam continued to hold onto this 'fact' despite other evidence proving Nigel's friendships integrity.
Charlie is awesome and thankfully, quite forgiving.
Still had Jacob's usual charm.
Adored the kit-kat.
Loved the ending.
Wouldn't advise you against it but have loads of other AJ's tales that I would recommend first.
*somewhere's between 3/3.5/4 stars*
November 30, 2018
Old Acquaintance is a semi-seasonal story about two men who reunite after many years apart. Their separation was caused by life, and jobs, and the fact they never got on when they were at school, for reasons only known to one of them.
The story takes place on the build up to Christmas (hence the semi-seasonal), but it doesn't focus on the season! Instead, quite rightly, it focuses on Sam and Charlie. You stay with them as they work through their attraction, and communication issues, and even bring up history from the past.
There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading. This is a lovely book, with a real feel-good vibe to it. Funny in places, and low-angst in others, this was the getaway-from-everything book I needed. Most definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was received by me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
The story takes place on the build up to Christmas (hence the semi-seasonal), but it doesn't focus on the season! Instead, quite rightly, it focuses on Sam and Charlie. You stay with them as they work through their attraction, and communication issues, and even bring up history from the past.
There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading. This is a lovely book, with a real feel-good vibe to it. Funny in places, and low-angst in others, this was the getaway-from-everything book I needed. Most definitely recommended by me.
* A copy of this book was received by me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
December 26, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Old Acquaintance was a second chances kind of romance for both Charlie and Sam. It’s hinted at that Sam has not had the best luck with romance, although we never really get to know why or any of the circumstances. Dave is annoying at times with his constant nagging at Sam to speak to Charlie and clear the air. While I got why this character and his air of wisdom was needed in the story, it still felt like Dave somehow knew that Sam was wrong in believing Charlie was a bad guy in high school and frankly I wanted Dave to just butt out after a while.
In many ways this novel seemed a bit unfinished to me. The characters and the plot a bit shallow and sometimes the minor conflicts between Charlie and Sam seemed a bit forced just to extend the storyline a few more chapters. Given that Sam’s friend, Nigel, turned out to be not such a good friend after all, I wasn’t really sure why Sam was so hellbent on hating Charlie over something that happened so many years ago.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Old Acquaintance was a second chances kind of romance for both Charlie and Sam. It’s hinted at that Sam has not had the best luck with romance, although we never really get to know why or any of the circumstances. Dave is annoying at times with his constant nagging at Sam to speak to Charlie and clear the air. While I got why this character and his air of wisdom was needed in the story, it still felt like Dave somehow knew that Sam was wrong in believing Charlie was a bad guy in high school and frankly I wanted Dave to just butt out after a while.
In many ways this novel seemed a bit unfinished to me. The characters and the plot a bit shallow and sometimes the minor conflicts between Charlie and Sam seemed a bit forced just to extend the storyline a few more chapters. Given that Sam’s friend, Nigel, turned out to be not such a good friend after all, I wasn’t really sure why Sam was so hellbent on hating Charlie over something that happened so many years ago.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
January 4, 2019
This romance is intersting because Sam has a grudge that he can't let go and yet is knows that the conflict from way back in high school is likely more complicated than he knows.
In some ways this book is about the comfort of old feelings, even unpleasant ones.
Charlie has no idea he is trapped in an enemies to lovers plot. lol He is just trying to rebuild his life.
It is a pleasant slow burn of of a romance and has a great cat.
In some ways this book is about the comfort of old feelings, even unpleasant ones.
Charlie has no idea he is trapped in an enemies to lovers plot. lol He is just trying to rebuild his life.
It is a pleasant slow burn of of a romance and has a great cat.
December 28, 2020
Cute cat
I liked that these guys acted their age. You are not old in your thirties. I’m glad it wasn’t rushed. They took time. I also liked the epilogue.
I liked that these guys acted their age. You are not old in your thirties. I’m glad it wasn’t rushed. They took time. I also liked the epilogue.
December 10, 2018
When a hottie moves in next door, Sam gets curious. But curiosity may well have killed the cat here, because not only does Sam dislike cats, of which his hot new neighbor seems to have, but that same hottie is also the cocky kid from high school that brutally put his then-best friend in the hospital. After a few awkward coincidental meet-ups it's looking as if Charles isn't the same as he was in high school and might be more than platonically interested in Sam. If Sam can't let go of his grudge he might ruin the best thing to come into his life and miss out on the partner of his dreams.
The premise was a cute idea of second-chances and happy futures and both men had a lot of potential. Sam was cute but more frustrating than anything because of a grudge he held onto simply because he was stubbornly unwilling to address the situation, look at things objectively, and because he just felt quite immature. There were interesting things about him but, for the life of me, I can't actually remember them...and that's a sign right there, isn't it? Charles was much more interesting from the start and I couldn't wait for Sam's parts to be over to get back to Charles' POV.
As for their conflict, the issue was built up quite a bit but the moment of reckoning came and went very quickly. I have mixed feelings about that. It was too "flash in the pan" and yet I truly appreciated the mature way they looked back on the moment to realize that there are far more important things at stake. There was a lot of mundane detail that dragged the story out and slowed the flow. It took way too long for Sam and Charlie to getting together and then their reconciliation and epilogue were quite anticlimactic. Some of the side characters pulled focus as well and that's not really what you want in a short story like this one. The moments of sweetness, Storm, and Charlie were the parts to recommend, however, and it wasn't a bad read at all, it just stayed a nice, pleasant story rather than charming or captivating or full of holiday warmth.
The premise was a cute idea of second-chances and happy futures and both men had a lot of potential. Sam was cute but more frustrating than anything because of a grudge he held onto simply because he was stubbornly unwilling to address the situation, look at things objectively, and because he just felt quite immature. There were interesting things about him but, for the life of me, I can't actually remember them...and that's a sign right there, isn't it? Charles was much more interesting from the start and I couldn't wait for Sam's parts to be over to get back to Charles' POV.
As for their conflict, the issue was built up quite a bit but the moment of reckoning came and went very quickly. I have mixed feelings about that. It was too "flash in the pan" and yet I truly appreciated the mature way they looked back on the moment to realize that there are far more important things at stake. There was a lot of mundane detail that dragged the story out and slowed the flow. It took way too long for Sam and Charlie to getting together and then their reconciliation and epilogue were quite anticlimactic. Some of the side characters pulled focus as well and that's not really what you want in a short story like this one. The moments of sweetness, Storm, and Charlie were the parts to recommend, however, and it wasn't a bad read at all, it just stayed a nice, pleasant story rather than charming or captivating or full of holiday warmth.
January 24, 2019
Annabelle Jacobs has a real winner with Old Acquaintance. Sam and Charlie are two people you just know will be perfect for each other and yet Sam obviously has bad memories of Charlie from school, unfortunately they are memories told to him by his one-time best friend. When you spend fifteen years hating on someone it can be hard to let that go and in Sam's case even the idea that his then best friend turned out to be not such a nice guy still makes it difficult to not believe what he's been hanging on to. Luckily for Sam he has a couple of good mates now that keep him thinking.
Now that's more than I normally would give away but I don't really see it as a spoiler, more of an incentive to read this one for yourself because you don't want to miss this holiday gem. Miss Jacobs may have set this one during the holiday season but it is so much more than Christmastime, Old Acquaintance is one that should maybe actually be read anytime but the holidays. Why you ask? We tend to be more open-hearted during the holidays and once the decorations are put away most of us tend to go back to our pessimistic ways so its nice to be reminded of what makes us optimistic and full of the holiday spirit the other 11 months of the year. But whenever you read it you will definitely find yourself entertained and who knows maybe you'll even reach out to someone who wasn't on the top of your list a week earlier.
Now that's more than I normally would give away but I don't really see it as a spoiler, more of an incentive to read this one for yourself because you don't want to miss this holiday gem. Miss Jacobs may have set this one during the holiday season but it is so much more than Christmastime, Old Acquaintance is one that should maybe actually be read anytime but the holidays. Why you ask? We tend to be more open-hearted during the holidays and once the decorations are put away most of us tend to go back to our pessimistic ways so its nice to be reminded of what makes us optimistic and full of the holiday spirit the other 11 months of the year. But whenever you read it you will definitely find yourself entertained and who knows maybe you'll even reach out to someone who wasn't on the top of your list a week earlier.
December 2, 2018
I received a free copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
4 Holiday Warmth stars
Old Acquaintance was the perfect way to spend a chilly afternoon, while donning Christmas jammies, with the tree flickering, and the virtual yule log burning on the TV. In case you're curious, that is in deed how I spent yesterday afternoon, indulging in the holiday spirit while engrossed in some yummy escapism.
Sam and his best mate are lounging around the house when a newcomer arrives to move in to the apartment next door. Come to find out, it's a guy they had gone to school with, one who left a bad taste in Sam's mouth. Too bad Charlie grew up to have an even nicer personality than his equally nice body, making it impossible for Sam to hold a grudge. There's no avoiding Charlie at their complex, the fact Sam is now renovating Charlie's sister's house means they have to spend far too much time together. This all creates a hearty portion of angsty deliciousness.
With a small cast of characters, featuring friends from school and close relatives, this holiday novella is warm and romancy, but still manages to bring depth from fear of being on the rebound and building new relationships.
Definitely recommend to those who love MM romance, looking for some stress-free escapism to get into the holiday spirit.
4 Holiday Warmth stars
Old Acquaintance was the perfect way to spend a chilly afternoon, while donning Christmas jammies, with the tree flickering, and the virtual yule log burning on the TV. In case you're curious, that is in deed how I spent yesterday afternoon, indulging in the holiday spirit while engrossed in some yummy escapism.
Sam and his best mate are lounging around the house when a newcomer arrives to move in to the apartment next door. Come to find out, it's a guy they had gone to school with, one who left a bad taste in Sam's mouth. Too bad Charlie grew up to have an even nicer personality than his equally nice body, making it impossible for Sam to hold a grudge. There's no avoiding Charlie at their complex, the fact Sam is now renovating Charlie's sister's house means they have to spend far too much time together. This all creates a hearty portion of angsty deliciousness.
With a small cast of characters, featuring friends from school and close relatives, this holiday novella is warm and romancy, but still manages to bring depth from fear of being on the rebound and building new relationships.
Definitely recommend to those who love MM romance, looking for some stress-free escapism to get into the holiday spirit.
December 6, 2018
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I think I will probably be in the minority about this story. I was honestly bored through most of the book. I tried to connect with Charlie and Sam but I just couldn't. Sam is holding a grudge since school and he can't muster the balls to confront Charlie until well over half way through the book. I wanted to reach through my e-reader and shake some sense into both of them. Ugh....this book had potential it just didn't hit the mark for me.
I think I will probably be in the minority about this story. I was honestly bored through most of the book. I tried to connect with Charlie and Sam but I just couldn't. Sam is holding a grudge since school and he can't muster the balls to confront Charlie until well over half way through the book. I wanted to reach through my e-reader and shake some sense into both of them. Ugh....this book had potential it just didn't hit the mark for me.
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November 30, 20185 Hearts
Charlie, Sam and Storm stole my heart with this. What a lovely story about finding out you were wrong and finding the love of your life.
Review on the blog and then here.
Charlie, Sam and Storm stole my heart with this. What a lovely story about finding out you were wrong and finding the love of your life.
Review on the blog and then here.
Read
December 15, 2018Sometimes at Christmas you just want to read something sweet, where issues are dealt with quickly with no angst. This is one of those stories, where you can lose yourself for a couple of hours with no danger of breaking your heart.
It's a sort of, not quite, enemies to lovers story (only one of the guys realise they are 'enemies'). The issues are dealt with in a mature fashion (even if the initial conflict wasn't that mature, to be honest) and the guys actually communicate, which is great.
There's kissing in the snow and a super cute cat, and some great friends and family. Lovely, easy read.
It's a sort of, not quite, enemies to lovers story (only one of the guys realise they are 'enemies'). The issues are dealt with in a mature fashion (even if the initial conflict wasn't that mature, to be honest) and the guys actually communicate, which is great.
There's kissing in the snow and a super cute cat, and some great friends and family. Lovely, easy read.
February 2, 2019
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
I enjoyed this story although I share the other reviewer's point that the grunge Sam was holding against Charlie was misguided and the resolve in this matter was pretty interesting though Sam's intensity not liking Charlie was a bit over the top in parts.
Nontheless the book was a solid read and I was hooked by Sam and Charlie. :) The chemistry is there, and, as I said, Sam is dealing with his grunge against Charlie which makes his interest for Charlie pretty divided. He can't deny that Charlie is charming, something very different from the guy he knows from school.
It's interesting how the author is able to deliver this story based on prejudices and false assumptions, how easy it is to judge a character and how it can change when you know both sides and the truth behind.
This book also plays with passed moments and wrong timing. This to and fro is in parts entertaining but also mildly frustatring so that you want to grab the character's and shake them. xD
5 out of 5 stars for this. :)
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
I enjoyed this story although I share the other reviewer's point that the grunge Sam was holding against Charlie was misguided and the resolve in this matter was pretty interesting though Sam's intensity not liking Charlie was a bit over the top in parts.
Nontheless the book was a solid read and I was hooked by Sam and Charlie. :) The chemistry is there, and, as I said, Sam is dealing with his grunge against Charlie which makes his interest for Charlie pretty divided. He can't deny that Charlie is charming, something very different from the guy he knows from school.
It's interesting how the author is able to deliver this story based on prejudices and false assumptions, how easy it is to judge a character and how it can change when you know both sides and the truth behind.
This book also plays with passed moments and wrong timing. This to and fro is in parts entertaining but also mildly frustatring so that you want to grab the character's and shake them. xD
5 out of 5 stars for this. :)
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
December 2, 2022
3 stars
Sam gets a new next door neighbour, and his best friend recognizes the guy as someone they went to school with. Sam didn't like Charlie in school, and decides that any and all transgressions will follow him forever. But then they start to get to know one another, and even though Sam can't let go of the past, he likes who Charlie is now. When circumstances put them in even closer proximity, feelings start to happen, but Sam doesn't know if he can let go of the past long enough to start a relationship.
I don't know. I understood Sam's reasons for not liking Charlie, but the fact that he got to know him and the type of person he is, and Sam's knowledge of other events, not to mention his best friend's opinion, should have had some weight on letting the past be in the past. Instead, Sam clung to it like a security blanket. I really liked Sam's best mate, who doled out sensible advice, and called Sam on his crap, but was there for him always. I finished reading this last night, but I barely remembered what it was about, so it wasn't memorable at all, and I'm sure it will be completely gone from my consciousness by the end of the day today.
Sam gets a new next door neighbour, and his best friend recognizes the guy as someone they went to school with. Sam didn't like Charlie in school, and decides that any and all transgressions will follow him forever. But then they start to get to know one another, and even though Sam can't let go of the past, he likes who Charlie is now. When circumstances put them in even closer proximity, feelings start to happen, but Sam doesn't know if he can let go of the past long enough to start a relationship.
I don't know. I understood Sam's reasons for not liking Charlie, but the fact that he got to know him and the type of person he is, and Sam's knowledge of other events, not to mention his best friend's opinion, should have had some weight on letting the past be in the past. Instead, Sam clung to it like a security blanket. I really liked Sam's best mate, who doled out sensible advice, and called Sam on his crap, but was there for him always. I finished reading this last night, but I barely remembered what it was about, so it wasn't memorable at all, and I'm sure it will be completely gone from my consciousness by the end of the day today.
December 23, 2018
There are two sides to every story, even those buried in the past.
When Sam spots the hot guy moving in next door, he’s all for going round to introduce himself. That soon changes when it turns out his new neighbour is Charles Whitmore, an old school acquaintance. Sam didn’t like him back then, for good reason, and fifteen years haven’t altered that.
Splitting up from his long-term boyfriend means a move across the city for Charlie. As luck would have it, his immediate neighbour is a guy he went to school with, Sam Gellar. While Sam is less than welcoming, his best mate is more than happy to invite Charlie into their social circle. Whatever problem Sam has with him, Charlie resolves to get to the bottom of it because, frosty beginnings aside, Charlie likes him.
With Christmas just around the corner, fate pushes them together, and they get on much better than they ever did at school. Despite his efforts not to, Sam develops feelings for Charlie, and they appear to be reciprocated. If Sam wants to take things further, he needs to either confront Charlie about their past—a past Charlie seems to have forgotten entirely—or let it go and move on. Sam knows deep down that he can’t let it go, but can’t find the right time to bring it up either.
One of my favorite things to read is the enemies to lovers and second chance stories, so I was excited for this one. Sam takes notice (through the window) of the hot new guy moving in next door. Sam’s best friend, Dave, is also watching and swears the man looks familiar. Sam is making plans to maybe go say hello when Dave figures out who the man is. “Wanker Whitmore. His new hot neighbor was the one person he’d hated at school.” Doesn’t it figure? Fifteen years ago, Charles Whitmore beat up Sam’s then best friend at school, Nigel. To add insult to injury, Charles also has a cat, something Sam abhors. That’s it, this is going to be a nightmare.
For his part, Charles has just broken up with someone he cared about and who cared for him. “Even though their split had been about as amicable as it could be, it still hurt.” They are still friends and Charles is going to miss him. He’s also now across town from his ex, Tim, and their friends. Charlie is hurting a bit. When he runs into Dave and Sam, he doesn’t remember them from school but he’s happy to have someone to talk to. Dave is polite, Charlie is not.
While they get to know each other again and Sam thaws, sort of, I liked the interaction. What kept it from being higher for me was Sam hanging on to this grudge for FIFTEEN YEARS without ever asking Charlie for his side. The fact that Nigel turned out to be a total jerk doesn’t even weigh in with Sam. I didn’t appreciate that at all.
Sam has some concerns about Charlie and I was glad to see not only does Dave validate them but urges Sam to talk about them with Charlie. Even better, Sam does. Communication here was good and they acted like adults.
It’s a very low angst story with some likeable, if a little bland, characters. It didn’t wow me like I had hoped but it was an easy, quick read.
When Sam spots the hot guy moving in next door, he’s all for going round to introduce himself. That soon changes when it turns out his new neighbour is Charles Whitmore, an old school acquaintance. Sam didn’t like him back then, for good reason, and fifteen years haven’t altered that.
Splitting up from his long-term boyfriend means a move across the city for Charlie. As luck would have it, his immediate neighbour is a guy he went to school with, Sam Gellar. While Sam is less than welcoming, his best mate is more than happy to invite Charlie into their social circle. Whatever problem Sam has with him, Charlie resolves to get to the bottom of it because, frosty beginnings aside, Charlie likes him.
With Christmas just around the corner, fate pushes them together, and they get on much better than they ever did at school. Despite his efforts not to, Sam develops feelings for Charlie, and they appear to be reciprocated. If Sam wants to take things further, he needs to either confront Charlie about their past—a past Charlie seems to have forgotten entirely—or let it go and move on. Sam knows deep down that he can’t let it go, but can’t find the right time to bring it up either.
One of my favorite things to read is the enemies to lovers and second chance stories, so I was excited for this one. Sam takes notice (through the window) of the hot new guy moving in next door. Sam’s best friend, Dave, is also watching and swears the man looks familiar. Sam is making plans to maybe go say hello when Dave figures out who the man is. “Wanker Whitmore. His new hot neighbor was the one person he’d hated at school.” Doesn’t it figure? Fifteen years ago, Charles Whitmore beat up Sam’s then best friend at school, Nigel. To add insult to injury, Charles also has a cat, something Sam abhors. That’s it, this is going to be a nightmare.
For his part, Charles has just broken up with someone he cared about and who cared for him. “Even though their split had been about as amicable as it could be, it still hurt.” They are still friends and Charles is going to miss him. He’s also now across town from his ex, Tim, and their friends. Charlie is hurting a bit. When he runs into Dave and Sam, he doesn’t remember them from school but he’s happy to have someone to talk to. Dave is polite, Charlie is not.
While they get to know each other again and Sam thaws, sort of, I liked the interaction. What kept it from being higher for me was Sam hanging on to this grudge for FIFTEEN YEARS without ever asking Charlie for his side. The fact that Nigel turned out to be a total jerk doesn’t even weigh in with Sam. I didn’t appreciate that at all.
Sam has some concerns about Charlie and I was glad to see not only does Dave validate them but urges Sam to talk about them with Charlie. Even better, Sam does. Communication here was good and they acted like adults.
It’s a very low angst story with some likeable, if a little bland, characters. It didn’t wow me like I had hoped but it was an easy, quick read.
November 27, 2018
A short, sweet, and low angst read. Perfect for the holidays and just what I was looking and hoping for.
I am reminded about the saying
“there are 3 sides to ever story: yours, theirs, and what really happened.”
The MCs are two former schoolmates that haven’t seen each other for about 15 years. Charlie is moving into a new place and Sam, his neighbor realizes and remembers who he is and recalls why he didn’t much care for him.
However, as the two get to know each other again (after all 15 years is a long time, people can change), they learn to work through their old feelings. I enjoyed reading about their dynamic and how they learned about each other so many years later.
Beautiful story about neighbors falling for each other.
Had the privilege of reading the ARC for this title. I have provided an unbiased review with my honest opinions.
I am reminded about the saying
“there are 3 sides to ever story: yours, theirs, and what really happened.”
The MCs are two former schoolmates that haven’t seen each other for about 15 years. Charlie is moving into a new place and Sam, his neighbor realizes and remembers who he is and recalls why he didn’t much care for him.
However, as the two get to know each other again (after all 15 years is a long time, people can change), they learn to work through their old feelings. I enjoyed reading about their dynamic and how they learned about each other so many years later.
Beautiful story about neighbors falling for each other.
Had the privilege of reading the ARC for this title. I have provided an unbiased review with my honest opinions.
November 29, 2018
OK read.
I liked the premise of the story, liked the blurb, but felt that neither followed through. On the whole I found the story a little slow and repetitive. It took ages for Charlie and Sam to get together, the misunderstanding between the two seemed to drag on and on. I really enjoy slow burn stories, but just felt that the couple were rather dull together and lacked any sort of connection. Their developing relationship just didn't ring true, it also appeared to me that Charlie was still hung up on his ex, and that Sam was the rebound, just as he feared. I really wanted to like this, I have enjoyed Ms Jacob's books in the past. The writing was solid, but the MCs totally ill matched. I found myself more interested in the lives of one or two of the secondary characters, rather than those of Charlie and Sam.
I liked the premise of the story, liked the blurb, but felt that neither followed through. On the whole I found the story a little slow and repetitive. It took ages for Charlie and Sam to get together, the misunderstanding between the two seemed to drag on and on. I really enjoy slow burn stories, but just felt that the couple were rather dull together and lacked any sort of connection. Their developing relationship just didn't ring true, it also appeared to me that Charlie was still hung up on his ex, and that Sam was the rebound, just as he feared. I really wanted to like this, I have enjoyed Ms Jacob's books in the past. The writing was solid, but the MCs totally ill matched. I found myself more interested in the lives of one or two of the secondary characters, rather than those of Charlie and Sam.
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