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Winterworld
‘Tis the season of Santa and snow and sparkles…and secrets.
With the looming grand opening of Winterworld, the Overton family's Christmas extravaganza, the last thing groundsman Kem needs is to be partnered with the Overtons’ prodigal son. Kem’s got enough on his plate with a brother increasingly lost to drugs, a spurned boss, herding three adoring but out-of-control wolfhounds, not to mention Lady Overton’s contagious love of all things Christmas, and her never-ending to-do list. He has no time or desire to babysit a clueless young aristocrat.
Fabian’s been travelling the world for the past two years. Or at least, that’s his parents’ version of events. Lying low at the family estate, no home or money or future to call his own, he has no option but to toe their line. And yet, despite his resentment of his every move being orchestrated, he discovers working with Kem has its benefits, including those of the sexy, fun kind.
Winterworld isn’t the only magic Kem and Fabian are creating. Attraction, friendship and trust deepen as they discover they have more in common than either thought possible — including pasts and secrets neither wants to talk about. But their budding relationship doesn’t please everyone, and acts of betrayal threaten to blow them apart for good. Can the magic of Christmas, a secretive, sees-all Santa, and a meddling but well-meaning mother, save the day?
With the looming grand opening of Winterworld, the Overton family's Christmas extravaganza, the last thing groundsman Kem needs is to be partnered with the Overtons’ prodigal son. Kem’s got enough on his plate with a brother increasingly lost to drugs, a spurned boss, herding three adoring but out-of-control wolfhounds, not to mention Lady Overton’s contagious love of all things Christmas, and her never-ending to-do list. He has no time or desire to babysit a clueless young aristocrat.
Fabian’s been travelling the world for the past two years. Or at least, that’s his parents’ version of events. Lying low at the family estate, no home or money or future to call his own, he has no option but to toe their line. And yet, despite his resentment of his every move being orchestrated, he discovers working with Kem has its benefits, including those of the sexy, fun kind.
Winterworld isn’t the only magic Kem and Fabian are creating. Attraction, friendship and trust deepen as they discover they have more in common than either thought possible — including pasts and secrets neither wants to talk about. But their budding relationship doesn’t please everyone, and acts of betrayal threaten to blow them apart for good. Can the magic of Christmas, a secretive, sees-all Santa, and a meddling but well-meaning mother, save the day?
172 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2019
28 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Elsborg
100 books1,679 followersBarbara Elsborg lives in Kent in the south of England. She always wanted to be a spy, but having confessed to everyone without them even resorting to torture, she decided it was not for her. Volcanology scorched her feet. A morbid fear of sharks put paid to marine biology. So instead, she spent several years successfully selling cyanide.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 13, 2020
~4.5~
While I like Barbara Elsborg's writing style, her books are at times too angsty for me. But not this one! I adored Winterworld.
Kem and Fabian's voices were distinct, and both men felt real: Kem with his avoidance of conflict and despair over his drug-addicted brother, and Fabian, with the injustice he endured and the big secret he's hiding at his parents' insistence.
This is not an angst-free story, but the angst is balanced with plenty of banter, humor, romance, sweetness, and steam. Also, Santa. Santa is important.
The book is not without villains, and there is a misunderstanding of sorts toward the end that's sorted relatively quickly. The end after the end made me super happy, I admit.
While I like Barbara Elsborg's writing style, her books are at times too angsty for me. But not this one! I adored Winterworld.
Kem and Fabian's voices were distinct, and both men felt real: Kem with his avoidance of conflict and despair over his drug-addicted brother, and Fabian, with the injustice he endured and the big secret he's hiding at his parents' insistence.
This is not an angst-free story, but the angst is balanced with plenty of banter, humor, romance, sweetness, and steam. Also, Santa. Santa is important.
The book is not without villains, and there is a misunderstanding of sorts toward the end that's sorted relatively quickly. The end after the end made me super happy, I admit.
December 8, 2019
Oh the angst! The author definitely didn't hold back with the angst and drama, so much so I wondered at times how Kem kept on getting up after all the knocks he was getting.
Loved both characters, loved their banter, the setting and some of the other characters but would have preferred less of the hard knocks and more plot development and concentration on fewer problems. I'm a vindictive sod and really thought Kem forgave and caved in way too easily, not only to Fabian but Kem's dick of a brother as well. I just wanted Kem to grow a pair and stick up for himself instead of letting everyone walk all over him. That said, I really did enjoy this Christmas novella and inhaled it in one sitting.
Loved both characters, loved their banter, the setting and some of the other characters but would have preferred less of the hard knocks and more plot development and concentration on fewer problems. I'm a vindictive sod and really thought Kem forgave and caved in way too easily, not only to Fabian but Kem's dick of a brother as well. I just wanted Kem to grow a pair and stick up for himself instead of letting everyone walk all over him. That said, I really did enjoy this Christmas novella and inhaled it in one sitting.
February 7, 2020
I was completely engrossed in this one and literally couldn't put it down. A terrific hurt/comfort story with excellent characters and a very unique plot. I wish it hadn't wrapped up so fast at the end though, I would have loved another 40 pages.
There are a few references to some darker stuff - it all happens off page, and I don't want to disclose it and spoil the arc.
There are a few references to some darker stuff - it all happens off page, and I don't want to disclose it and spoil the arc.
January 4, 2021
I received some gorgeous gifts for my kindle this year but this might be one of my favorites! It’s not much of a surprise that it’s by Elsborg and even less of a surprise that it squeezed my heart. I cherish my annual holiday book binge and find myself floating through the reads. But I certainly don’t have any complaints that Barb made us work for this one. Kem and Fabian had to work for it, I might as well join them. Which in all honesty, I would love to. Struck with the beauty of Christmas created here, I found myself nearly speechless and tingling with excitement and would eagerly line up for admittance if I could. Winterworld is truly a magical place full of wonders and joy and…two lonely hearts looking for their perfect mate.
Unexpected love hovers near the top of my “love story favorites” list and this was most definitely unexpected. Kem is merely trying to get through the days. He’s a survivor and full of the best qualities. He’s optimistic, dedicated, creative, funny, and well, just plain charming. Losing his mum was a blow he’s still recovering from, especially since the last link in his family isn’t currently living his best life. Kem’s brother’s sole focus is on his next fix and hurting Kem in his drug-induced blindness doesn’t even register to him. Shame Kem has to deal with the aftermath because all he really wants to sell his family home, take his half, and move on. His path was detoured with his mother’s passing but he still has plans and…dreams.
Sadly, not all dreams are happy. Fabian has his own dreams but most of them filled with horror and pain. He’s made many mistakes but trusting the wrong man was by far the biggest. When his boyfriend (add the ex now) abandoned him and left him to shoulder burdens that weren’t his to bear, bitterness and despair became his new companions. His parent’s wealth allowed some of his problems to disappear but it came with a price. And the lies are slowly consuming him. His mom’s latest ‘project’ requires his attention but he can hardly focus on anything besides the gorgeous groundsman, Kem. Kem lights up his dark world and makes him want…want to do better and be better. And isn’t that the greatest?
Winterworld is a place of enchantment and full of hope, cheer, and love. We have Elsborg’s trademark snarky wit (which I love) and steamy sexual tension (which everybody loves) and the bonds of a family made and family found. There’s everything you can possibly imagine perfecting a grand holiday event plus kindness and forgiveness. Loved the guys, loved the busybody mother and I loved the friends. Top it off with the man in the red suit and I was enamored. It was exquisite and the ending couldn’t have been any better!
Beware of: Family drama…everyone has it and no one wants it. Sometimes life kicks you down and then kicks you while you’re down…what matters is getting up. And a mystical magical celebration that will leave you with a warm heart and a smile on your face. Oh, and a love story you won’t soon forget.
This book is for: Elsborg fans, unexpected love story fans, and anyone searching for a holiday escape…this is for you.
Book UNfunk
Unexpected love hovers near the top of my “love story favorites” list and this was most definitely unexpected. Kem is merely trying to get through the days. He’s a survivor and full of the best qualities. He’s optimistic, dedicated, creative, funny, and well, just plain charming. Losing his mum was a blow he’s still recovering from, especially since the last link in his family isn’t currently living his best life. Kem’s brother’s sole focus is on his next fix and hurting Kem in his drug-induced blindness doesn’t even register to him. Shame Kem has to deal with the aftermath because all he really wants to sell his family home, take his half, and move on. His path was detoured with his mother’s passing but he still has plans and…dreams.
Sadly, not all dreams are happy. Fabian has his own dreams but most of them filled with horror and pain. He’s made many mistakes but trusting the wrong man was by far the biggest. When his boyfriend (add the ex now) abandoned him and left him to shoulder burdens that weren’t his to bear, bitterness and despair became his new companions. His parent’s wealth allowed some of his problems to disappear but it came with a price. And the lies are slowly consuming him. His mom’s latest ‘project’ requires his attention but he can hardly focus on anything besides the gorgeous groundsman, Kem. Kem lights up his dark world and makes him want…want to do better and be better. And isn’t that the greatest?
Winterworld is a place of enchantment and full of hope, cheer, and love. We have Elsborg’s trademark snarky wit (which I love) and steamy sexual tension (which everybody loves) and the bonds of a family made and family found. There’s everything you can possibly imagine perfecting a grand holiday event plus kindness and forgiveness. Loved the guys, loved the busybody mother and I loved the friends. Top it off with the man in the red suit and I was enamored. It was exquisite and the ending couldn’t have been any better!
Beware of: Family drama…everyone has it and no one wants it. Sometimes life kicks you down and then kicks you while you’re down…what matters is getting up. And a mystical magical celebration that will leave you with a warm heart and a smile on your face. Oh, and a love story you won’t soon forget.
This book is for: Elsborg fans, unexpected love story fans, and anyone searching for a holiday escape…this is for you.
Book UNfunk
December 4, 2019
*4,5 stars*
Barbara Elsborg is really good at making the life of her characters difficult. Even in a Christmas novella. And isn’t it wonderful! 😊
The setting is totally brilliant – two guys involved in setting up a winterworld tourist attraction in the grounds of an old castle. It’s something really new and I loved everything about it!
Both MCs are in a sticky situation when they meet (and no, I am not talking about sex here!), and although some of the issues are maybe not quite explored as deeply as I might have liked and some plot developments did make me marginally uneasy, I thoroughly enjoyed what's on offer.
A good dose of angst, some palatable UST, a bit of drama and a whole lot of feels. And that teeny bit of Christmas magic that made me smile!
Lovely Christmas story!
Barbara Elsborg is really good at making the life of her characters difficult. Even in a Christmas novella. And isn’t it wonderful! 😊
The setting is totally brilliant – two guys involved in setting up a winterworld tourist attraction in the grounds of an old castle. It’s something really new and I loved everything about it!
Both MCs are in a sticky situation when they meet (and no, I am not talking about sex here!), and although some of the issues are maybe not quite explored as deeply as I might have liked and some plot developments did make me marginally uneasy, I thoroughly enjoyed what's on offer.
A good dose of angst, some palatable UST, a bit of drama and a whole lot of feels. And that teeny bit of Christmas magic that made me smile!
Lovely Christmas story!
December 2, 2019
Another wholly enjoyable read from Barbara Elsborg.
Kem's a nice guy living through difficult circumstances in the present time. Those issues are on page from the outset.
Fabian's history is slowly unravelled as the book and relationship progresses but you know it isn't the great travels that his mother, Lady Overton, talks about.
The guys are good together. There is chemistry and they are adorably and sexily funny. Kem likes to take the piss out of Fabian about the big sell his mother has given, and Fabian runs with the gags.
Both guys work together, Kem, because Winterworld is his job right now. Fabian, because his parents want him to do... something. Of course, this equation means we're getting some sweet and sexy romance. Because it's Barbara Elsborg writing this you know they'll have to work for it. Not too hard, it is Christmas after all.
Kem's a nice guy living through difficult circumstances in the present time. Those issues are on page from the outset.
Fabian's history is slowly unravelled as the book and relationship progresses but you know it isn't the great travels that his mother, Lady Overton, talks about.
The guys are good together. There is chemistry and they are adorably and sexily funny. Kem likes to take the piss out of Fabian about the big sell his mother has given, and Fabian runs with the gags.
Both guys work together, Kem, because Winterworld is his job right now. Fabian, because his parents want him to do... something. Of course, this equation means we're getting some sweet and sexy romance. Because it's Barbara Elsborg writing this you know they'll have to work for it. Not too hard, it is Christmas after all.
December 5, 2019
Good holiday story
This wasn’t too sweet and sparkly because Barbara Elsborg likes making her characters suffer. I did think some of the wrap up of Fabian and Kem’s troubles and parts of the romance were a bit rushed. I was my usual bah humbug about some of the holiday parts but that’s just me.
This wasn’t too sweet and sparkly because Barbara Elsborg likes making her characters suffer. I did think some of the wrap up of Fabian and Kem’s troubles and parts of the romance were a bit rushed. I was my usual bah humbug about some of the holiday parts but that’s just me.
Want to read
November 27, 2019*hugs the pretty!* *or my kindle but whatever* Thankyouthankyou to Merry Cuddlecane for this lovely gift, I'm so excited to read it! xx
December 19, 2020
Two delightful MCs (just adore Kem as a character) presented in a thoroughly enjoyable holiday season M-M romance, but yes - there's insta-lust at the start but a decent romance arc before any bedroom action. This probably ranks as my favorite read by the author to date - as good as any Sophia Soames tale IMO.
January 26, 2021
Unfortunately, I enjoy Barbara Elsborg's snark writing. It's all that kept me going through this (frankly ridiculous) martyr-fest.
Our hero's father has been AWOL for years.
And his mother has died.
And his brother is a drug addict.
And he has to walk miles to work every day.
And no one appreciates his creativity.
And his boss hates him and makes him work too hard.
And
And
And
And
And
And
And
On the plus side, at least he didn't end up losing a limb and living on the streets.
For the tender-hearted amongst you, there is a HEA which, in a bare week or so, miraculously reverses almost all the above, with the exception of bringing his mother back to life. I'm afraid that even with Elsborg's talent for dialogue, the plot is also beyond hope of resurrection.
Our hero's father has been AWOL for years.
And his mother has died.
And his brother is a drug addict.
And he has to walk miles to work every day.
And no one appreciates his creativity.
And his boss hates him and makes him work too hard.
And
And
And
And
And
And
And
On the plus side, at least he didn't end up losing a limb and living on the streets.
For the tender-hearted amongst you, there is a HEA which, in a bare week or so, miraculously reverses almost all the above, with the exception of bringing his mother back to life. I'm afraid that even with Elsborg's talent for dialogue, the plot is also beyond hope of resurrection.
December 27, 2019
I would have rated this as a 2.5, 3 star book up until the 80% mark, and then Fabian's actions just killed it.
Fabian is hurt by the fact that he wasn't given the benefit of the doubt and that his father didn't trust him, yet he assumed the worst, first of Evgeny and then two years later, of Kem. If you squint, his apology to Kem could be seen as sincere, and were I Kem, I would have told Fabian where he could shove it... especially since Fabian a) didn't trust that Kem wasn't responsible until he found out otherwise and b) didn't apologize for anything until after it was confirmed that it wasn't Kem, even though Fabian said that he had decided it didn't matter if Kem was responsible or not. But instead, Kem rolls over and takes it, just like he has with everything else - his brother, his brother's friends, the house, Connors, Jason, etc. So, of course, Kem instantly forgives Fabian and Fabian goes on to announce himself as Kem's boyfriend in almost the next breath... for someone who hates people assuming things about him, he sure loves to assume things for others. And of course, he proves himself ever the hypocrite when he utters to Evgeny, "You had choices. I get that you were scared but you had choices and made the wrong ones." Um, what do you call firing/dumping Kem without a second's thought? Wrong choices, that's what.
And then there is the epilogue. I hate epilogues. I particularly hate Barbara Elsborg's epilogues. But this one goes on to be especially hateful by switching from the alternative 3rd person, past tense narrative to a 3rd person omniscient, present tense narrative. Yuck.
Fabian is hurt by the fact that he wasn't given the benefit of the doubt and that his father didn't trust him, yet he assumed the worst, first of Evgeny and then two years later, of Kem. If you squint, his apology to Kem could be seen as sincere, and were I Kem, I would have told Fabian where he could shove it... especially since Fabian a) didn't trust that Kem wasn't responsible until he found out otherwise and b) didn't apologize for anything until after it was confirmed that it wasn't Kem, even though Fabian said that he had decided it didn't matter if Kem was responsible or not. But instead, Kem rolls over and takes it, just like he has with everything else - his brother, his brother's friends, the house, Connors, Jason, etc. So, of course, Kem instantly forgives Fabian and Fabian goes on to announce himself as Kem's boyfriend in almost the next breath... for someone who hates people assuming things about him, he sure loves to assume things for others. And of course, he proves himself ever the hypocrite when he utters to Evgeny, "You had choices. I get that you were scared but you had choices and made the wrong ones." Um, what do you call firing/dumping Kem without a second's thought? Wrong choices, that's what.
And then there is the epilogue. I hate epilogues. I particularly hate Barbara Elsborg's epilogues. But this one goes on to be especially hateful by switching from the alternative 3rd person, past tense narrative to a 3rd person omniscient, present tense narrative. Yuck.
January 15, 2020
4.5 stars from me. Plenty of great humour and banter, which is normal with Barbara's stories.
Really liked this Christmassy story of Kem and Fabian. Kem was a lovely guy, he deserved every good thing that finally came his way and Fabian had had more than his fair share of bad stuff too... As far as Jason Shaw was concerned, retribution was very swift thank goodness 😏. Didn't think much of Kem's brother Reilly either...nasty piece of work, and what happened to all that money...drugs I suppose??
Nice to catch up with Thorne and Linton from Dirty Games too.
Really liked this Christmassy story of Kem and Fabian. Kem was a lovely guy, he deserved every good thing that finally came his way and Fabian had had more than his fair share of bad stuff too... As far as Jason Shaw was concerned, retribution was very swift thank goodness 😏. Didn't think much of Kem's brother Reilly either...nasty piece of work, and what happened to all that money...drugs I suppose??
Nice to catch up with Thorne and Linton from Dirty Games too.
December 12, 2021
Loved their flirty banter! Both MCs are very likeable and felt like real people, even if their backstories are a bit extreme. Their insta connection & the obvious bump in the road near the end are forgiven for an enjoyable holiday read.
December 30, 2019
Oh have I missed this author. I’m not a fantasy reader😬 so it’s been a while with me and this author. It’s so nice to be back. Kem, kem killed me. Omg his story. Was so heart breaking. It was one thing after another after another for him. And he kept fighting and fighting.
This story was about two men who have the worst happen to them fighting together to survive. Survive.
The writing was great as usual, the story was wonderful and the side characters even though I didn’t like them were great.
Looking forward to more from this author
This story was about two men who have the worst happen to them fighting together to survive. Survive.
The writing was great as usual, the story was wonderful and the side characters even though I didn’t like them were great.
Looking forward to more from this author
December 2, 2019
Great MM Christmas Adventure!
This is not your famous greeting card company Christmas tale. Nope. It's a Christmas like you've never seen but you would love to see it all. Well written by a talented author who loves Christmas. There's love, romance, sexy times, an aristocratic family, good characters and some bad characters, Christmas and snow, and a HEA.
Kem and Fabian don't seem to have much in common but they find themselves together. Kem doesn't want to be saddled with the spoiled son whose back from two years traveling but you don't always get what you want. But maybe they have more in common than they realize and maybe, just maybe, this isn't such a bad thing. Of course, life is never simple and it wouldn't be much of story if there wasn't someone trying to muck it all up.
Secrets, lies, and meddling get together to throw a wrench in the budding relationship amongst other things. You will have to read it to find out more. I recommend this book wholeheartedly.
This is not your famous greeting card company Christmas tale. Nope. It's a Christmas like you've never seen but you would love to see it all. Well written by a talented author who loves Christmas. There's love, romance, sexy times, an aristocratic family, good characters and some bad characters, Christmas and snow, and a HEA.
Kem and Fabian don't seem to have much in common but they find themselves together. Kem doesn't want to be saddled with the spoiled son whose back from two years traveling but you don't always get what you want. But maybe they have more in common than they realize and maybe, just maybe, this isn't such a bad thing. Of course, life is never simple and it wouldn't be much of story if there wasn't someone trying to muck it all up.
Secrets, lies, and meddling get together to throw a wrench in the budding relationship amongst other things. You will have to read it to find out more. I recommend this book wholeheartedly.
April 15, 2021
3.5*
Well written novella that I devoured in one evening.
Kem was almost unbearably upbeat given the amount of bad luck he had with. I found the looming issues with his home, money and brother a little uncomfortable to read. I also wish he’d had a dark moment or been a little less forgiving of other people who crapped on him (metaphorically). He let too much stuff slide and just buried his head in the sand a lot. Fabian was Eh - just eh.
The love was also a little insta but hey ho it’s a Christmas novella and comes with the territory.
Well written novella that I devoured in one evening.
Kem was almost unbearably upbeat given the amount of bad luck he had with. I found the looming issues with his home, money and brother a little uncomfortable to read. I also wish he’d had a dark moment or been a little less forgiving of other people who crapped on him (metaphorically). He let too much stuff slide and just buried his head in the sand a lot. Fabian was Eh - just eh.
The love was also a little insta but hey ho it’s a Christmas novella and comes with the territory.
November 29, 2019
I just absolutely love Barbara's Christmas story's as this is the second one i have read in the last few weeks.This had it all from a MM romance,to belly laughing at Kem and his funny comebacks, plus you can't help but love Fabian and his cheeky ways.This was a lighthearted but a little sad short story that has a hea. Loved the winterworld that she created along with the believable characters that was portrayed.
January 3, 2021
Snow and fairylights and reindeer and SANTA! No really, THE SANTA! I knew my brother was lying to me all this time.
A sweet heartwarming Christmas confection, like a warm minced pie with a glass of sherry. Well written and wonderfully paced. Highly enjoyed the banter between Kem and Fabian (no, not the 50's/60's singer). Add in a meddling but well-meaning mother, 3 unruly wolfhounds, a dastardly boss and THE SANTA! and you have a sweet holiday story to keep you warm on those cold winter's nights while snuggling under a pile of comfy blankets with a cup of hot cocoa (marshmallows optional).
A sweet heartwarming Christmas confection, like a warm minced pie with a glass of sherry. Well written and wonderfully paced. Highly enjoyed the banter between Kem and Fabian (no, not the 50's/60's singer). Add in a meddling but well-meaning mother, 3 unruly wolfhounds, a dastardly boss and THE SANTA! and you have a sweet holiday story to keep you warm on those cold winter's nights while snuggling under a pile of comfy blankets with a cup of hot cocoa (marshmallows optional).
December 1, 2019
I really enjoyed Winterworld. It was sweet and funny, with all the humor and witty banter I’ve come to expect from Barbara Elsborg but also had the perfect amount of grit and hardship. To me, the dark made the the light that much more touching and heartfelt.
Loved it! 4.25 stars
Loved it! 4.25 stars
November 28, 2019
Happy ever after tale, involving triumphs and disaster and emergent love. Nicely rounded tale, with sympathetic,believable, characters who have been given some depth; which gives them reality and emotional colour.
November 27, 2019
Barbara Elsborg and a Christmas story are a pretty awesome combination; all the fluff of a Christmas romance but with plenty of nastiness that the HEA doesn't come too easily :)
November 20, 2022
I love Barbara Elsborg and she can do no wrong in my eyes
This one is set in a 'national trust' type house that is organising a Winter Wonderland . Having been to many of these i could imagine it so clearly .
Both Fabien & Kem have had a bad time of of lately and it was so nice watching them come together ..could have done without the 'misunderstanding' though.
I really enjoyed the epilogue where we heard what happened to everyone that was in the book
This one is set in a 'national trust' type house that is organising a Winter Wonderland . Having been to many of these i could imagine it so clearly .
Both Fabien & Kem have had a bad time of of lately and it was so nice watching them come together ..could have done without the 'misunderstanding' though.
I really enjoyed the epilogue where we heard what happened to everyone that was in the book
December 16, 2019
Gosh, Kem went through a lot. A LOT! But I trust this author to bring me to a very satisfying HEA>
Loved the Christmas elements, the secrets of Fabian, the glimpse of Santa, and the hotness.
It's all good.
Loved the Christmas elements, the secrets of Fabian, the glimpse of Santa, and the hotness.
It's all good.
August 20, 2021
I kolejna - już czwarta dzisiaj (20.08.2021) namierzona pustka w komentarzach do książek, gdzie jestem pewna, że je pisałam i wklejałam na GR...
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Zawsze inaczej podchodzę do czytania walentynkowych i świątecznych opowiadań czy nowelek. Dzieją się właściwie w innych okolicznościach przyrody, w innej strefie czasowej, w innym wymiarze, w innej galaktyce - rządzą się po prostu swoimi prawami 😁 Inna bajka niż cała reszta 😁 Ale gdy dotyczy to już powieści, a możemy założyć, że książka, która ma ok. 170 stron zdecydowanie się do nich zalicza, to jednak - oprócz magii, cudów i fascynacji od pierwszego wejrzenia - powinno być coś więcej. Tak mi się wydaje przynajmniej 😁
Tymczasem tutaj było jednych rzeczy za dużo, a innych za mało...
Za dużo zdecydowanie było opisów prac nad Winterworldem - rany, chyba z 1/3 książki robili ścieżki, ustawiali płotki, chaty, stoiska, tipi, owijali drzewa lampkami, przyjeżdżała ekipa od karuzeli, ekipa od lodowiska itd., itd. Wiem, że to święta, wiem doskonale - ale wynudziłam się przy tym, bo można było ten czas wykorzystać lepiej na relację chłopaków - zwłaszcza, że akcja dzieje się przynajmniej przez miesiąc - co jak na świąteczną książkę to sporo... Tymczasem niektóre zdarzenia są rwane, uproszczone - choćby z bratem Kema czy z Jasonem, który zniknął nagle i niespodziewanie, choć wiadomo dlaczego, ale... I mam wrażenie, że brakowało chemii między Kemem a Fabianem. Jakoś tak nie przekonali mnie do siebie jako para...
Owszem, były niezłe, zadziorne miejscami dialogi, była wściekłość na brata Kema, którego za to, co mu zrobił, udusiłabym własnymi rękami, ale to za mało... A przecież da się - choćby książka E.M. Lindsey ze świata Irons and Works To Touch the Light. Ma nawet mniejszą ilość stron, większą czcionkę, też jest świąteczna (choć dotyczące żydowskiej Chanuki, a nie klasycznych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia), dzieje się tylko w ciągu kilku dni - i jest w niej magia najzwyczajniej w świecie. Jest wiarygodna, ciepła, mądra, jest chemia między bohaterami i zdecydowane zauroczenie. A Barbara Elsborg potrafi pisać, potrafi zakręcić historią, potrafi sprawić, że można uwierzyć zarówno w historię, jak i w bohaterów i ich uczucie... Zatem Winterworld mnie jednak trochę rozczarował i trochę znudził...
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Zawsze inaczej podchodzę do czytania walentynkowych i świątecznych opowiadań czy nowelek. Dzieją się właściwie w innych okolicznościach przyrody, w innej strefie czasowej, w innym wymiarze, w innej galaktyce - rządzą się po prostu swoimi prawami 😁 Inna bajka niż cała reszta 😁 Ale gdy dotyczy to już powieści, a możemy założyć, że książka, która ma ok. 170 stron zdecydowanie się do nich zalicza, to jednak - oprócz magii, cudów i fascynacji od pierwszego wejrzenia - powinno być coś więcej. Tak mi się wydaje przynajmniej 😁
Tymczasem tutaj było jednych rzeczy za dużo, a innych za mało...
Za dużo zdecydowanie było opisów prac nad Winterworldem - rany, chyba z 1/3 książki robili ścieżki, ustawiali płotki, chaty, stoiska, tipi, owijali drzewa lampkami, przyjeżdżała ekipa od karuzeli, ekipa od lodowiska itd., itd. Wiem, że to święta, wiem doskonale - ale wynudziłam się przy tym, bo można było ten czas wykorzystać lepiej na relację chłopaków - zwłaszcza, że akcja dzieje się przynajmniej przez miesiąc - co jak na świąteczną książkę to sporo... Tymczasem niektóre zdarzenia są rwane, uproszczone - choćby z bratem Kema czy z Jasonem, który zniknął nagle i niespodziewanie, choć wiadomo dlaczego, ale... I mam wrażenie, że brakowało chemii między Kemem a Fabianem. Jakoś tak nie przekonali mnie do siebie jako para...
Owszem, były niezłe, zadziorne miejscami dialogi, była wściekłość na brata Kema, którego za to, co mu zrobił, udusiłabym własnymi rękami, ale to za mało... A przecież da się - choćby książka E.M. Lindsey ze świata Irons and Works To Touch the Light. Ma nawet mniejszą ilość stron, większą czcionkę, też jest świąteczna (choć dotyczące żydowskiej Chanuki, a nie klasycznych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia), dzieje się tylko w ciągu kilku dni - i jest w niej magia najzwyczajniej w świecie. Jest wiarygodna, ciepła, mądra, jest chemia między bohaterami i zdecydowane zauroczenie. A Barbara Elsborg potrafi pisać, potrafi zakręcić historią, potrafi sprawić, że można uwierzyć zarówno w historię, jak i w bohaterów i ich uczucie... Zatem Winterworld mnie jednak trochę rozczarował i trochę znudził...
January 12, 2020
I read this through Kindle Unlimited.
4 1/2 Stars
Winter world is a lovely, painful story about two people who have had everything ripped away from them by people they trust. I laughed through much of the book, but there are sad times too. I found I could not put this down until the very end.
The characters are well developed and interesting. Their unique situations are fresh and believable, even though they would probably be a little farfetched here in the real world.
The story moves along at a smooth pace through the world the author has built so beautifully. The secondary characters are supportive of the storyline and help to enrich the different aspects of the piece.
The spicy scenes are well done and I am satisfied with the HEA.
I enjoy this author and look forward to more from her.
4 1/2 Stars
Winter world is a lovely, painful story about two people who have had everything ripped away from them by people they trust. I laughed through much of the book, but there are sad times too. I found I could not put this down until the very end.
The characters are well developed and interesting. Their unique situations are fresh and believable, even though they would probably be a little farfetched here in the real world.
The story moves along at a smooth pace through the world the author has built so beautifully. The secondary characters are supportive of the storyline and help to enrich the different aspects of the piece.
The spicy scenes are well done and I am satisfied with the HEA.
I enjoy this author and look forward to more from her.
January 21, 2020
Kem and Fabian were meant to be together. How do I know? They banter in bed and have almost as much fun bantering as they do fucking. ALMOST as much.
Let's be real; Barbara Elsborg is an author who delivers, and not just on her promise of happy endings. She delivers with characters like Kem, who would be too good to be true in the hands of a lesser writer, or Fabian, whose falling in love practically at first sight might feel unrealistic, only it doesn't, ever.
Just when I was about to give up on my Kindle Unlimited as a source for worthwhile reads, I trip over an offering such as Barbra Elsborg's Winterworld, and land in a castle in Kent at Christmas, finding just what I'd hoped for under the tree: this present of a book!
Let's be real; Barbara Elsborg is an author who delivers, and not just on her promise of happy endings. She delivers with characters like Kem, who would be too good to be true in the hands of a lesser writer, or Fabian, whose falling in love practically at first sight might feel unrealistic, only it doesn't, ever.
Just when I was about to give up on my Kindle Unlimited as a source for worthwhile reads, I trip over an offering such as Barbra Elsborg's Winterworld, and land in a castle in Kent at Christmas, finding just what I'd hoped for under the tree: this present of a book!
July 31, 2024
2.5 stars
I liked it very much in the beginning, but after a while it became a. predictable and b. flat, so from very nice it turned to okay. And I really hate the bunch of drama and adverse circumstances Elsborg piles on her heroes; It creates an air of exteme misery, and personally I read romance to escape RL and feel better, not get dragged down by despair.
I liked it very much in the beginning, but after a while it became a. predictable and b. flat, so from very nice it turned to okay. And I really hate the bunch of drama and adverse circumstances Elsborg piles on her heroes; It creates an air of exteme misery, and personally I read romance to escape RL and feel better, not get dragged down by despair.
December 22, 2019
3.5 Stars
WOW..angst overload. I kept waiting and hoping Kem would standup for himself. He was to willing to let life happen. I wanted him to be a participant and make an effort regardless the outcome.
WOW..angst overload. I kept waiting and hoping Kem would standup for himself. He was to willing to let life happen. I wanted him to be a participant and make an effort regardless the outcome.
January 3, 2023
4.25 stars
So good! I have no idea how Kem had managed to not be a bitter raving crackpot with all the crap he's gone through. I knew what Fabian was hiding before he confessed -- it just made sense somehow, even before he told Kem. And I adored the last line of the book!
So good! I have no idea how Kem had managed to not be a bitter raving crackpot with all the crap he's gone through. I knew what Fabian was hiding before he confessed -- it just made sense somehow, even before he told Kem. And I adored the last line of the book!
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