Loving Blitz

North Pole City Tales #4

by Charlie Cochet

alternate cover edition of ASIN B081BCF35X

From North Pole City to Winter Wonderland, preparations are underway after a royal announcement sweeps everyone into a frenzy of festivity. At the heart of the celebration are the city’s most beloved elf pilots, the Rein Dears. Once the Big Flight is behind them, the pilots prepare for the royal event. Assigned a special task of finding an Elska rose, Cupid and Blitzen are unaware of how their friendship is about to change forever.



Yet not all that glitters is gold. The sweet, angelic Cupid hides a dark secret, one that threatens to destroy his Rein Dear status, his friends, and the elf who’s captured his heart. It’s up to Blitzen to help Cupid see the light in the darkness and show him that together they can mend broken hearts.

Genres: M M Romance, Fantasy, Holiday, Christmas, Romance, Friends To Lovers, Magic

103 pages, ebook

First published December 16, 2015

About the author

Step into a world of romance, humor, and heart-pounding action with Charlie Cochet, the international bestselling author behind the captivating THIRDS series. Embrace a fusion of Cuban flair and American charm as you dive into her stories with unforgettable characters and a dash of delightful mayhem.

Fueled by a love for classic rock and Cuban lattes, Charlie resides in Central Florida with her rascally Doxiepoo and a very opinionated German Shepherd. When she isn’t writing, she’s losing herself in a whirlwind of books and movies.

Charlie’s stories will stir your imagination and ignite your passion. So grab your favorite coffee, turn up the music, and prepare for your next adventure.



Website: http://www.charliecochet.com
Patreon: http://www.thirdshq.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/charliecochet
Join Charlie's FB fan group

Reviews

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 Stars

Look. This is Cochet at her sappy cheesy best all tied up in Christmas goodness and cheeky imaginative world building.

There’s not much to really say here on the 4th book out of six. Consistent, sweet, bringing the holiday cheer and love. Enjoy!

[Meags · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

The strength of this series remains in Cochet’s remarkable world-building of North Pole City. I continue to be absolutely rapt by the places, people, and traditions imagined in this gleeful and inventive Christmassy M/M romance series.

The characters continue to be sweet and charming, and the romance here, between centuries-old best-friends, Cupid and Blitzen, is smile-inducing and largely uncomplicated, which is mostly what I needed from my reading in these busy days leading up to Christmas.

There’s a little excitement and drama, brought on by one of Cupid’s meddlesome dark elf brothers but largely this was just another simple yet heart-warming romance – one that will surely get readers into the Christmas spirit!

[Gerbera_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I like about this entire series is this world with all its people, their names, their duties, the drinks they order and the light cuss words they use - it's just so cute and simply adorable. The story of Cupid and Blitzen is a bit more staid than the previous in the series. Friends who slowly realize they mean more to each other story was lovely if a bit slow in the beginning. The initial plot twist was expected but I would like to repeat myself - Rein Dears, Holy Holly! and Crabapples! among many others just made me want to go and live there myself if I could! LOL I enjoyed this short Christmas novella as well as the others! Best thing to read before going to sleep!

[Len Evans Jr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book Cupid and Blitz are so wonderful together. I also really liked the whole surprise twist about Cupid and how it was handled. As with book 3 I do think it could of been a bit longer as it felt like more of Cupid and Blitz's relationship could have been explored. Instead time was spent setting up books 5 and 6. Which while necessary should not have impinged upon Cupid and Blitz. Even with all that the story was good and an enjoyable read!

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is another cute installment to the North Pole City Tales series. I didn't like this one as much as previous stories, but that's not because anything is wrong with this story. I just didn't feel the connection. Anyway, it's worth 3 stars a recommendation from me. I have fun with this series and it's good to just relax you. No extreme highs or lows. :)

[Kit (Metaphors and Moonlight) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book in the series was about Blitzen and Cupid, two of the Rein Dears. I liked that these two were close friends before getting romantic; it made their feelings more believable. I also like how even though each book is about different main characters, they all intertwine, and you still get to see stuff going on among the characters from past books sometimes (mostly Rudy and Jack). The blurb alludes to a big secret that Cupid has, and while he does in fact have a secret, the book wasn't nearly as angsty as the blurb makes it seem. Much like the others in the series, this was another a light, fluffy, quick, Christmassy read!

*Note: Even though each book has different main characters, I recommend reading these in order.*

*I've read this book multiple times. This review was written after my 1st read.*

*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2017 // Format: Ebook*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2024 // Format: Ebook via TTS*

Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight

[Deeze · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading Blitz and Cupids tale. Not sure why it took them so long to figure out their feelings but it was fun to watch. The little drama kept things interesting too.

I still have a bit of trouble with how they are all turning gay when the first too books made much of the Rein Dears and the Sugarplum Fairies. I also don't like the idea of Dashers story. That one is asking just a bit too much. But I'm very keen to read Cupids brothers story.

ETA And now I get to read Calders story :)

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Manchmal verwischt die Grenze zwischen Freundschaft und Liebe.
Cupid ist so ein süßer Kerl, er hat aber ein dunkles Geheimnis.

[Caipi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cupid and Blitzen have been best friends for years and then one kiss, exchanged as part of a party dance, changed everything. ;)

Thankfully Cupid's secret about his past that came to light didn't change how his friends and Blitz felt for him.

3.5 🎄

[Serena Yates · Rating 4 out of 5]

My “annual visit” to North Pole City and Winter Wonderland with all their fascinating inhabitants is one I look forward to. The North Pole is run like a modern company, the Rein Dear are a group of nine elite pilots in charge of the annual Big Flight, Mayor Kringle (the spirit of Christmas) is in charge, and the Frost family (spirits of winter of various talents) provides a hint of royalty and mystery in the neighboring Winter Wonderland. After last year’s adventure, where Rudy saved Jack Frost from a broken heart, I was curious to find out whose turn it would be this year to pair up. The story's focus is on Cupid and Blitz, both Rein Dear pilots.


Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.

[Julesmarie · Rating 3 out of 5]

First Re-Read 18 December 2017
I'm not sure why I rated this only 3 stars the last time, so I'm raising it to 4.

Cupid's history and his brothers add an extra dimension to this world that fascinated me.

Favorite Quote:
"You've been a beacon in the snowstorm. The warm, bright red light guiding me home."

Original Review 21 December 2015
Super fun to catch up with the other couples from the previous books while getting to see Cupid and Blitz's story.

I thoroughly enjoy this world and its sweetness and innocence.

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gorgeous, friends to lovers romance with all the joyous moments that have been present throughout this series.

I really want this world to be real!

Loved Cupid and Blitzen, they are opposites in size and outlook but find the courage to admit their feelings while Cupid fights against his own secrets.

[Beebs · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short, sugary sweet Christmas fantasy.

[Relly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good

3.25 stars

Good addition to the series.
I loved Cupid and enjoyed Blitz’s navigation towards telling Cupid how he felt.

[Shelby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cupid and Blitzen have been best friends for years. But a sweet kiss at a party has everything changing. The feelings they've ignored for years are bubbling to the surface, and there's more to the relationship between them than they ever thought. But fears of losing their friendship are making changing things a scary proposition. Of course theirs more point on in North Pole city as well and Jack's relationship with Rudy is on the rocks too.

I liked Cupid and Blitzen acknowledging what more they could be. This was a cute, quick little read and sets up the last two books in the series. I liked that Cupid had a darker past that was a total odds to who he truly is. It let their be a little bit of conflict that could be easily resolved.

[Mrs.V · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this story! Blitz and Cupid are so cute together! They've been best friends for so long they seemingly know everything about each other, but Cupid has a secret he fears will ruing his newfound love with Blitzen. I loved how the whole revelation was handled and Blitz's unwavering faith in Cupid!

[Becca · Rating 5 out of 5]

From friends to lovers in the cute story of Blitzen and Cupid. But Cupid has a side of family that is dark magic. He's half that. And his dark sided brother is causing some serious trouble
And Cupid has to try to make it all right before too many people are hurt by the backlash

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first half of this series about a year ago. This week I picked up book four. I was reminded of how much I love this world. Christmas is my favorite time of the year and I love the characters and reading about their romances. Their journey is fascinating and their hearts are pure. Yes they encounter adverserties, but man oh man when they pull together to overcome, there are hearts everywhere. This series is a must read

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets revealed... love found and evil abounds... grrr

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet

Quick, easy, light, and sweet read. We got more history on how presents are delivered in this world. Cupid is darling and Blitz loyal.

[Relly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars

Good addition to the series.
I loved Cupid and enjoyed Blitz’s navigation towards telling Cupid how he felt.

[Gabriella · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

The series got better the more I read. I liked Cupid and Blitz. Esp, that Blitz followed his heart and believed in Cupid. Cute.

[Elaine White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book – Loving Blitz (North Pole City Tales #4)
Author – Charlie Cochet
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 94
Cover – Gorgeous!
POV – 3rd person, dual POV (with one added character POV)
Would I read it again – Yes!
Genre – LGBT, Holiday, Fantasy, Christmas


Wow! This series just keeps getting better and better and better.

I'll admit, the minute I finished this, even before writing this review, I checked to make sure there would be a book after the next one. I know who book 5 is going to be about, from the blurb, but there's another couple I desperately need and I wanted to make sure they got their story. Though unconfirmed as the couple of the book, I at least get to know there's another installment. Because I. NEED. IT. NOW.

At first, I was scared for Cupid and Blitz, because they're the friend-zone-likely risk of two best friends who are crushing massively on each other and I wasn't sure what would get in their way or how badly it would affect them. All throughout the story, I was scared for their future. More so than in other books. But, the way they dealt with it and the way it all worked out was magical.

For secondary characters, the usual suspects made a lovely, if often brief, appearance – Tim, Noel, Rudy, Jack, Vale, Vixen, Hollis, Donner, Dasher and Comet. By far the most interesting side story was Dasher. He's one feisty fella. That moment with him and the King, at the Ball was both terrifying and thrillingly exciting. Then, later, I just about wet my knicker in excitement over how it was all turning out!

I was a little confused at first as to why we got Gunne's – Cupid's brother – POV, but it all made sense in the end and, quite honestly, the story wouldn't have made sense without it.

Although the story ended at 88% (giving it the biggest back-matter of the series so far) I wasn't too disappointed. Charlie Cochet always knows how to give the story everything it needs, in whatever space it needs. And ending with that small confrontation between Donner and Calder was so promising and exciting; it gave me hope and makes me excited to move onto Book 5. But, not withstanding that excitement, I really truly desperately NEED Dasher and the King to get their story. Pretty please?

I'm not going to bother repeating the gushing of previous reviews for this series (great plotting, world building, characterisation, detail) but I will reiterate that there is probably no better series of books to keep you feeling all warm and snuggly on a wintery night, wrapped up in a blanket, with a cup of hot cocoa.

~

Favourite Quote(s)

“The orchestra broke off into a cheerful melody Cupid instantly recognized. Oh! It was his favourite dance. He swiftly handed his glass to a passing waiter and grabbed Blitz's wrist. “Dance with me.”
Blitz looked uncertain. “But this dance is for sweethearts.”
“Well, we're best friends. That's kind of like a couple.”
“I, uh...” Blitz's uncertainty melted into a warm smile. “Okay.””

“He is your Elska.”

“Donner folded his arms over his chest. “Why should we trust you?”
“You shouldn't.” Calder leaned into Donner and gave him a toothy grin. “I am a very wicked elf. Stand too close and I might just eat you up.” Calder snapped his teeth, and Donner gave a start. He took a step back before glaring at Calder, who laughed.”

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: This book was provided to me by the publisher through Hearts on Fire Reviews in exchange for an impartial review.



Holy holly berries! Charlie Cochet has brought us another fun-to-read, sweet story of love among the Rein Dear Squad at North Pole City.

Everyone is excited to attend the annual Christmas Ball, and doubly so because it’s being held at King Frost’s palace in Winter Wonderland this year. Imagine how happy they are when Jack gets down on one knee and proposes to Rudy in front of all their friends and neighbors.

Cupid and his best friend Blizten are among the very merry elves and sugarplum fairies attending the ball and are very happy for their squad leader, Rudy, but they’re also happy to be spending time with each other, partying and dancing the night away. Neither wants to acknowledge the attraction, but both are starting to feel more than friendship toward the other.

As a gift for his groom, Rudy wants to find the very rare Elska rose, a rose Jack’s mother loved and one which will allow Jack to feel that his mother is still with them. He asks his good friends, Cupid and Blitzen, to find the rose, and that unleashes a series of events resulting in them spending the night together in one bed and making the most of it. But it also results in an encounter with a Dockalfar elf, a dark elf who tries to kill Cupid, and when that doesn’t work, reveals his deepest, darkest secret to Blitzen and the rest of their friends.

This is a fun romp through a magical world where Mayor Kringle and the King of Frost rule. Thankfully, through all the ups and downs and near tragedies, Cupid and Blitzen are able to be true to their love for each other until they finally find a way to look forward to their own happy future together. There’s at least one, and maybe two, setups in this story for future sequels, and as far as I’m concerned, that’s just one more reason to look forward to Christmas each year. Don’t miss your chance to pick this up, and if you haven’t read the series yet, by all means, stuff them all in your stocking this year.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4 stars

I really enjoyed this fourth installment of Charlie Cochet’s North Pole City Tales series. The series focuses on the Christmas tale come to life and the stories so far include at least one of the famous Rein Dear pilots. Loving Blitz is a cute friends to lovers story about two best friends that move on to more. Like the rest of the series, it is filled with clever fun as it plays off the holiday story. It also focuses nicely on the relationship between these two guys and I enjoyed watching them fall for one another. The affection between them is clear right from the start. Both men are holding off for fear of ruining their friendship, but they can’t avoid their feelings forever and they are a sweet and adorable couple.

The story also deals with Cupid’s past and the secret of his family history. I won’t go into too much detail here, but I liked how it reconnects us with some plot threads from earlier in the series. I think this book could stand alone, but Cochet does a lovely job building the world and connecting elements of all the books, and I think it is richer having read the first three.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[Wicked · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won't just judge this series on it's parts any more because I simply love the series overall. This wasn't my favorite but I inhaled it anyway and I want the other two pairings that are hinted at (right now!) as soon as possible. I love the unreal feel of the world and the silly, over the top adorableness of the characters.

[Diverse · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do love this series by Charlie. Every holiday season I know one is coming and I squeeee when I see it! I devoured this in one day! It’s the love story of Blitzen and Cupid. Cupid is an adorable fair haired elf. Full of happiness joy… and secrets! Blitzen is his best friend, protector, and the one who has Cupid’s heart. This is a fun, exciting, and jolly story. Terrific Christmas read!

[Lidia · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is become for me one tradition by Christmas read Charlie Cochet's North Pole City series. The feeling is the same for everyone books, so sweet, so fun, so colourful ...is like come in magic world. Cupid and Blitzen are so sweet together, and I loved their story.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4,5
Very cute story. Cupid is adorable and Blitz is just gorgeous. Their story is full of sweet moments, feelings and "oh-noooo"-moments, dang, just the perfect mixture. Can't wait to read the next installment.

[Pates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cute and fun short holiday read! I'm always excited to see who will be next! Even though I have a feeling I know who is next year. ;) I love this little series!