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Love in O'Leary #5
The Night
One night in Vegas I gave him my heart… one day later, he broke it.
Look, I’ve never claimed to be a nice guy. I don’t do pretty words, I don’t give polite smiles, and I refuse to be sucked into the sappy bucket of sentimentality that is Christmas in small-town O’Leary. Smiling neighbors, overly decorated trees, a town parade, a Santa contest? Ho ho no. I do shifts as a firefighter, and I go home alone.
I fell into the trap once — that stupid night in Vegas — of believing there was more out there for me. I took a chance on a guy with magical green eyes and a gorgeous smile. The next day, Liam McKnight was gone. He took my heart with him… and left his wedding ring behind.
Except now my once-upon-a-time husband has reappeared with a kid in tow, and there are carols, lights, and cookies everywhere I turn. And worst of all? The spark between us burns brighter than ever, because whatever happened in Vegas definitely didn’t stay there. Liam came to town looking for an ending, but what’s building between us feels an awful lot like a beginning. Too bad it’s going to take more than a dozen interfering O’Learians to convince me to take a second chance on heartache, on love… on us.
Note: While The Night is very much Liam and Gideon's story, characters from past books do make an appearance, and you'll enjoy the book exponentially more if this isn't your first trip to O'Leary.
Look, I’ve never claimed to be a nice guy. I don’t do pretty words, I don’t give polite smiles, and I refuse to be sucked into the sappy bucket of sentimentality that is Christmas in small-town O’Leary. Smiling neighbors, overly decorated trees, a town parade, a Santa contest? Ho ho no. I do shifts as a firefighter, and I go home alone.
I fell into the trap once — that stupid night in Vegas — of believing there was more out there for me. I took a chance on a guy with magical green eyes and a gorgeous smile. The next day, Liam McKnight was gone. He took my heart with him… and left his wedding ring behind.
Except now my once-upon-a-time husband has reappeared with a kid in tow, and there are carols, lights, and cookies everywhere I turn. And worst of all? The spark between us burns brighter than ever, because whatever happened in Vegas definitely didn’t stay there. Liam came to town looking for an ending, but what’s building between us feels an awful lot like a beginning. Too bad it’s going to take more than a dozen interfering O’Learians to convince me to take a second chance on heartache, on love… on us.
Note: While The Night is very much Liam and Gideon's story, characters from past books do make an appearance, and you'll enjoy the book exponentially more if this isn't your first trip to O'Leary.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 6, 2019
363 people are currently reading
788 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 349 reviews
December 22, 2025
4.5 stars
Before I start gushing, I must say that I fully acknowledge how unrealistic and unlikely this story is. Falling in love in a matter of hours and getting married in Vegas? Suddenly splitting up and losing contact for five years? Neither of the MCs dating for those five years? Being still in love after seeing each other again? A seven-year-old girl who sounds wiser than most adults? Yes, that kind of unrealistic.
But I had so much fun with this story. I loved the small town setting and the meddling townspeople. I loved Liam and Gideon and how well they fit together. I found their connection and chemistry believable and I really enjoyed their dynamic. I loved how well Gideon fit with Hazel, right from the start. Hazel was such a fun character to read about. Loved all their conversations and banter. I thought the author’s writing was excellent in this one, and I really appreciated how all the tiny details mentioned throughout the story came together in the end. This was heartwarming, funny, romantic and even a bit magical.
This is another book I randomly picked up because it was a freebie. I'd already read books 3, 3.5, 4 and 5.5 in this series, so I thought I'd give this a try right away since it's a holiday read. I honestly didn't expect it to become my favourite book in the series so far.
Before I start gushing, I must say that I fully acknowledge how unrealistic and unlikely this story is. Falling in love in a matter of hours and getting married in Vegas? Suddenly splitting up and losing contact for five years? Neither of the MCs dating for those five years? Being still in love after seeing each other again? A seven-year-old girl who sounds wiser than most adults? Yes, that kind of unrealistic.
But I had so much fun with this story. I loved the small town setting and the meddling townspeople. I loved Liam and Gideon and how well they fit together. I found their connection and chemistry believable and I really enjoyed their dynamic. I loved how well Gideon fit with Hazel, right from the start. Hazel was such a fun character to read about. Loved all their conversations and banter. I thought the author’s writing was excellent in this one, and I really appreciated how all the tiny details mentioned throughout the story came together in the end. This was heartwarming, funny, romantic and even a bit magical.
This is another book I randomly picked up because it was a freebie. I'd already read books 3, 3.5, 4 and 5.5 in this series, so I thought I'd give this a try right away since it's a holiday read. I honestly didn't expect it to become my favourite book in the series so far.
January 5, 2020
Suspend belief all ye who enter here.
This story is not believable. But it is adorable, romantic, and magical.
Disclaimer one: Don't read The Night as a standalone. The MCs from the other books in the series are very present. I didn't remember them all in great detail, but it helps to have read at least a couple of the stories to get a feel for the town and its people.
Disclaimer two: If you're allergic to holiday stories featuring insta love and Santas galore, skip this one. This book is all about the Christmas spirit and love at first sight.
I loved grumpy Gideon and not-so-grumpy Liam. Liam's daughter, Hazel, was a lot of fun (if a little too precious). The town shenanigans to bring the two men together were hilarious.
Realistic? Nope. Enjoyable, sweet, and a little sexy? All that and fa-la-la-ing cinnamon buns with mountains of frosting.
This story is not believable. But it is adorable, romantic, and magical.
Disclaimer one: Don't read The Night as a standalone. The MCs from the other books in the series are very present. I didn't remember them all in great detail, but it helps to have read at least a couple of the stories to get a feel for the town and its people.
Disclaimer two: If you're allergic to holiday stories featuring insta love and Santas galore, skip this one. This book is all about the Christmas spirit and love at first sight.
I loved grumpy Gideon and not-so-grumpy Liam. Liam's daughter, Hazel, was a lot of fun (if a little too precious). The town shenanigans to bring the two men together were hilarious.
Realistic? Nope. Enjoyable, sweet, and a little sexy? All that and fa-la-la-ing cinnamon buns with mountains of frosting.
December 11, 2019
3,5 stars
Unfortunately, I totally missed the #5 sign in the title – I personally blame the Glühwein and the number of Christmas biscuits I had to sample for quality control in the last few days …
So, to make this crystal clear (although I'm pretty sure everyone else has caught on to this 😂)- this is part of a series.🙄 One I haven’t read. 😅
Inevitably, the onslaught of multiple couples from previous books blew my little hazy brain. Of course, if you ARE familiar with all of them, this is surely book-heaven!
I did enjoy the banter and humour here, the characters and the scenario are fun, and if there is a little town somewhere in this universe as gay-friendly and homey and picture perfect as O’Leary, then the magic of Christmas will truly have happened.
On my Grinch side, I have to admit that a 7-year old behaving as if she's going on 35, is simply not my thing. For me Hazel, Liam's daughter, acted way beyond age, particularly when she handed out life advice to her dad.
So, between getting a bit lost in a maze of people, some crazy Christmas ongoings in O’Leary and a slightly overbearing child, the romance fell a teeny bit short.
I really liked both MCs, but grumpy firefighter Gideon stole my heart. Fabulous character I would have loved to hear more about.
I had a hard time rating this, as it’s really neither the book’s nor the author’s fault I fell into this totally unprepared. And the writing was very enjoyable.
If I should read this series one day, I will return to adjust my review!
Unfortunately, I totally missed the #5 sign in the title – I personally blame the Glühwein and the number of Christmas biscuits I had to sample for quality control in the last few days …
So, to make this crystal clear (although I'm pretty sure everyone else has caught on to this 😂)- this is part of a series.🙄 One I haven’t read. 😅
Inevitably, the onslaught of multiple couples from previous books blew my little hazy brain. Of course, if you ARE familiar with all of them, this is surely book-heaven!
I did enjoy the banter and humour here, the characters and the scenario are fun, and if there is a little town somewhere in this universe as gay-friendly and homey and picture perfect as O’Leary, then the magic of Christmas will truly have happened.
On my Grinch side, I have to admit that a 7-year old behaving as if she's going on 35, is simply not my thing. For me Hazel, Liam's daughter, acted way beyond age, particularly when she handed out life advice to her dad.
So, between getting a bit lost in a maze of people, some crazy Christmas ongoings in O’Leary and a slightly overbearing child, the romance fell a teeny bit short.
I really liked both MCs, but grumpy firefighter Gideon stole my heart. Fabulous character I would have loved to hear more about.
I had a hard time rating this, as it’s really neither the book’s nor the author’s fault I fell into this totally unprepared. And the writing was very enjoyable.
If I should read this series one day, I will return to adjust my review!
December 23, 2019
Totally unbelievable IMO but still very enjoyable.
May 18, 2021
Ho ho ho-ly fa la la this book was entirely ridiculous. And delightful. As my friends, who are way ahead of me in this game, have stated -- take that ball of disbelief, stuff it in a box, duct tape the box closed and throw it in the back of the closet and just sit back and let the feels happen!
From a deep and rather insta connection in Vegas five years ago (just go with it), to the only slightly awkward turned hella domestic present and a 7 year old girl made of magic and a small New York town made of meddling come Gideon and Liam's long overdue (well, to them, anyway) HEA.
I was enchanted. Delighted. And left with a craving for frosting (damn you, Cal!) on a day when I'm fasting. It kind of feels like Christmas all up in here. In May.
So, while The Night scores a zero on the realistic scale, it scores an eleven on the magically romantic one and I thoroughly enjoyed the altogether ridiculous ride.
From a deep and rather insta connection in Vegas five years ago (just go with it), to the only slightly awkward turned hella domestic present and a 7 year old girl made of magic and a small New York town made of meddling come Gideon and Liam's long overdue (well, to them, anyway) HEA.
I was enchanted. Delighted. And left with a craving for frosting (damn you, Cal!) on a day when I'm fasting. It kind of feels like Christmas all up in here. In May.
So, while The Night scores a zero on the realistic scale, it scores an eleven on the magically romantic one and I thoroughly enjoyed the altogether ridiculous ride.
"Magic was your family and the ridiculous, amazing, generous friends who became your family. Magic was the one person in the world who got you and saw something in you that you couldn’t see in yourself. Magic was second chances when you least expected them. And magic was hope. Always hope."
June 23, 2021
This book was magical and funny and sweet and perfectly O'Leary!!!! Gideon, who is tough and doesn't want anyone in setting him up, there are secrets he hasn't divulged. In walks Liam and his daughter Hazel, and Gideon's secret is out. One night in Vegas was everything but Liam disappeared, no note, no messages. Five years later, the spark is still there.
This book was fantastic and adorable and funny. My goodness I love O'Leary and those lovable nosy residents!!!
This book was fantastic and adorable and funny. My goodness I love O'Leary and those lovable nosy residents!!!
December 6, 2019
Top read of 2019!
April 24, 2023
Sugary, mouth-meltingly sweet and cheesy - who would have thought I'd end up loving it?
This was the book I didn't know I needed. There's too much of everything- small-town, meddling friends, former characters, Christmas, Santa - and to top it all off, one of those annoying wiseass children who are too cute to handle and who instinctively know better than the grown-ups.
But sometimes, all that sticky sweetness works and it did for me in this book once I set the audiobook to the side.
Note to self: I REALLY need a list with narrators and their quirks. It's not enough to know your top 5 or the ones you loathe, there are a few out there who sound ok when you listen to the audio sample, but then go on an RUIN a perfectly acceptable book because they overact, or have a slightly nasal voice. But I digress. Suffice to say: the book got A LOT better once I switched to reading.
Back to the story: Liam is on his way to O'Leary, because that's where his husband lives, and he wants to get a divorce. Gideon, said husband, is the grumpy grinchy local firefighter, and he's not happy to see Liam again.
Liam, whom he married after a few days of knowing each other in Vegas, and who left him without a note.
Turns out, Liam had a reason, and that was the sudden death of his best friend, who left him responsible for her baby girl, Hazel, who's now 7 years old.
I know I know. Not everyone is fond of kids in romances, but it worked here, seeing as she was an integral part of the story.
It's a book where you need to shut down all logical thinking, it's a bit like “Miracle on the 34th street", you know- the one with the little girl who wishes for a family, and accidentally talks to the real Santa. But we do watch that movie again and again because it makes us feel good, and that's what this book does so well: it makes you believe in miracles, at least for a little bit.
4 stars with a huge helping of sugar frosting.
This was the book I didn't know I needed. There's too much of everything- small-town, meddling friends, former characters, Christmas, Santa - and to top it all off, one of those annoying wiseass children who are too cute to handle and who instinctively know better than the grown-ups.
But sometimes, all that sticky sweetness works and it did for me in this book once I set the audiobook to the side.
Note to self: I REALLY need a list with narrators and their quirks. It's not enough to know your top 5 or the ones you loathe, there are a few out there who sound ok when you listen to the audio sample, but then go on an RUIN a perfectly acceptable book because they overact, or have a slightly nasal voice. But I digress. Suffice to say: the book got A LOT better once I switched to reading.
Back to the story: Liam is on his way to O'Leary, because that's where his husband lives, and he wants to get a divorce. Gideon, said husband, is the grumpy grinchy local firefighter, and he's not happy to see Liam again.
Liam, whom he married after a few days of knowing each other in Vegas, and who left him without a note.
Turns out, Liam had a reason, and that was the sudden death of his best friend, who left him responsible for her baby girl, Hazel, who's now 7 years old.
I know I know. Not everyone is fond of kids in romances, but it worked here, seeing as she was an integral part of the story.
It's a book where you need to shut down all logical thinking, it's a bit like “Miracle on the 34th street", you know- the one with the little girl who wishes for a family, and accidentally talks to the real Santa. But we do watch that movie again and again because it makes us feel good, and that's what this book does so well: it makes you believe in miracles, at least for a little bit.
4 stars with a huge helping of sugar frosting.
March 10, 2023
Gideon todavia espera al hombre que le hizo creer en el amor en Las Vegas, el hombre que le hizo cometer la locura de casarse solo habiendolo conocido unas pocas horas, aunque fuera el mismo que le destrozo el corazon al haberlo abandonado apenas un par de dias despues sin darle ningun tipo de explicacion. Y todos estos sentimientos son magnificados por la cantidad de amor y alegria que se respira en O'Leary. Asi que cuando un dia aparece por la cafeteria y el hombre de sus suenos (y pesadillas) esta justo ahi, sentado con su hija, no sabe que pensar. El asunto es que todo el pueblo de O'Leary esta presente,y entre todos ellos estan decididos a que Gideon le de otra oportunidad, despues de todo, ya estan casados. Sera Gideon lo suficientemente fuerte como volver a intentarlo? Su esposo sera capaz de aceptar que el amor realmente lo puede todo? El pueblo de O'Leary cumplira su deseo de que todos sean felices en las fiestas?
Este es el libro que estaba esperando de esta serie, romantico, dulce, con muy poco drama, pero muy muy muy gracioso. No hay casi nada que no me haya gustado de este libro, primero, una noche de locura en Las Vegas, despues una nina mas inteligente que muchos adultos, el pueblo entero conspirando, ambos conviviendo en una misma casa e intentado "evitarse", la epoca navidena en O'Leary, la aparicion de TODAS las parejas de los libros anteriores, ademas de todos los secundarios de libros anteriores intentando "emparejarlos". Este libro mas que una historia de la pareja, es una conclusion de la serie.
En fin, me gusto bastante, el unico problema, es que en esta serie (para entender mucho de los chistes) tienes que leertela toda, sino no hay forma que disfrutes este libro. Ahora voy a leer un par de historias cortas de esta serie, para saber que paso con alguno de los otros personajes, y mas adelante seguro leo otras series de este autor.
Este es el libro que estaba esperando de esta serie, romantico, dulce, con muy poco drama, pero muy muy muy gracioso. No hay casi nada que no me haya gustado de este libro, primero, una noche de locura en Las Vegas, despues una nina mas inteligente que muchos adultos, el pueblo entero conspirando, ambos conviviendo en una misma casa e intentado "evitarse", la epoca navidena en O'Leary, la aparicion de TODAS las parejas de los libros anteriores, ademas de todos los secundarios de libros anteriores intentando "emparejarlos". Este libro mas que una historia de la pareja, es una conclusion de la serie.
En fin, me gusto bastante, el unico problema, es que en esta serie (para entender mucho de los chistes) tienes que leertela toda, sino no hay forma que disfrutes este libro. Ahora voy a leer un par de historias cortas de esta serie, para saber que paso con alguno de los otros personajes, y mas adelante seguro leo otras series de este autor.
December 7, 2019
This was a fun, quick read, I really liked this.
It went by a little fast, but that is kind of the nature of Gideon and Liam's relationship.
Five years prior, Gideon and Liam met and within about a day of knowing each other, they got married. And then about two days after that, Liam left and they were over.
But it was more complicated than Liam just leaving, as we find out in this book, with it being 5 years later and Liam coming to O'Leary after tracking down Gideon intending for Gideon to sign divorce papers.
But the meddling town of O'Leary will not be deterred, no sir. Gideon and Liam aren't in the best of places at the start of this, but some meddling from the town makes sure they're near each other and pretty soon things change, and quickly.
The meddling of the town sure can be annoying, that's for sure. But then if they hadn't meddled, Gideon would have signed the papers, they would have gotten a notary to sign off on in, Liam would have left, and these two men who are the loves of each other's lives wouldn't have found their way back to each other. And Liam would have gone and tried to be with Scott, his friend, who was not so great.
But these two fairly quickly rediscover their love. I mean, for them it kind of makes sense and it kind of worked, but also at the same time it made this story go by really quickly, like it felt quick and like all the sudden I was at %50 and I was like "wait, already?" and it started to feel almost like a novella instead of a full length novel.
While it was a little too quick for my tastes, I didn't mid too much overall. I did want Gideon and Liam to have more time together before committing to their relationship, just to build it up, but it going fast didn't make it not work either because these two already did love each other and we got good scenes between these two to show that love. Also, I adored Hazel Grace, Liam's daughter, she was great.
So overall I enjoyed this, and while a little too fast, that didn't make me hate this or anything. I still quite enjoyed it.
So I definitely recommend it! 😁
It went by a little fast, but that is kind of the nature of Gideon and Liam's relationship.
Five years prior, Gideon and Liam met and within about a day of knowing each other, they got married. And then about two days after that, Liam left and they were over.
But it was more complicated than Liam just leaving, as we find out in this book, with it being 5 years later and Liam coming to O'Leary after tracking down Gideon intending for Gideon to sign divorce papers.
But the meddling town of O'Leary will not be deterred, no sir. Gideon and Liam aren't in the best of places at the start of this, but some meddling from the town makes sure they're near each other and pretty soon things change, and quickly.
The meddling of the town sure can be annoying, that's for sure. But then if they hadn't meddled, Gideon would have signed the papers, they would have gotten a notary to sign off on in, Liam would have left, and these two men who are the loves of each other's lives wouldn't have found their way back to each other. And Liam would have gone and tried to be with Scott, his friend, who was not so great.
But these two fairly quickly rediscover their love. I mean, for them it kind of makes sense and it kind of worked, but also at the same time it made this story go by really quickly, like it felt quick and like all the sudden I was at %50 and I was like "wait, already?" and it started to feel almost like a novella instead of a full length novel.
While it was a little too quick for my tastes, I didn't mid too much overall. I did want Gideon and Liam to have more time together before committing to their relationship, just to build it up, but it going fast didn't make it not work either because these two already did love each other and we got good scenes between these two to show that love. Also, I adored Hazel Grace, Liam's daughter, she was great.
So overall I enjoyed this, and while a little too fast, that didn't make me hate this or anything. I still quite enjoyed it.
So I definitely recommend it! 😁
July 2, 2021
Hallmark y'all need to get on this because this is the kind of sugar my blood stream actually needs.
February 3, 2023
I just loved Gideon and Liam’s "fa la la-ing" second chance story. (You'll have to read the book to find out what "fa la la-ing" means:) It’s one of those stories that you dive in and have to stay completely absorbed in until the very last word. I read this one in day because I just couldn't leave these two sweet guys and Liam's little daughter out in the cold...literally. Another blizzard turned out to be just what these two stubborn guys needed. How I do love this little town and the people that live there. I did think that what happened in Vegas was a bit odd and really couldn't see it happening...but who knows. I would have thought that Laim would have tried to contact Gideon and explain...but then I guess that "all's well that ends well" fairly much describes all that really matters. Another good one Ms. Archer.
May 16, 2020
So, possibly not the best time to read a Christmas romance but fa la la as they would say in O'Leary, I absolutely adored this one.
Another second chance romance and both participants were wonderfully written characters, big grumpy Gideon and Liam, with his unexpected fatherhood.
I loved the set up, the little bit of magic that happens wherever the people of this amazing town start their meddling and the actual bit of magic added by that festive spirit of Santa Claus ❤
Another second chance romance and both participants were wonderfully written characters, big grumpy Gideon and Liam, with his unexpected fatherhood.
I loved the set up, the little bit of magic that happens wherever the people of this amazing town start their meddling and the actual bit of magic added by that festive spirit of Santa Claus ❤
July 3, 2023
Very cute Christmas story.
June 22, 2023
This series is seriously fun... Deserves a lot more attention, the one with lucy Lennox is better tho
February 25, 2021
This author gives us a surprise reunion for Liam and Gideon.
Liam, professional Photographer,
and his smart daughter, Hazel, 7, are headed to O'Leary to get some papers signed.
It's Christmastime and the town is decorated to the max. In the Bakery is the Grinch and Scrooge, Gideon, 39, local Firefighter,
(on the cover) who is being hassled by friends.
Then a scream, a Santa is grabbed, and it's fun, and releases the town into wildness. Then, Liam, the Dad appears, sending shock waves through Gideon. It had been 5 years since he's seen his husband. Who's child is it?
The towns folk catch on, and soon the hilarity commences, as they steer Liam and Hazel to stay at Gideon's home.
Hazel Grace...
I love the men together. They really did fall in love years ago in Las Vegas, but an accident back home changed Liam's life.
We see their conversations, being in each other's space once again. Christmas is in full glow and Hazel loves it. Gideon doesn't know the full story yet, but they got to get to know each other better, have super hot, sexy times, and the spark has never faded.
Loved this awesome tale of love, feelings, trials and tribulations for each man.
Well written, fascinating and gripping, fun and sexy.
These series tales can stand alone, but I liked that I knew each couple more deeply.
We see the whole cast of series couples and townsfolk. It's glorious. Fabulous.
ENJOY !
======
Liam, professional Photographer,
and his smart daughter, Hazel, 7, are headed to O'Leary to get some papers signed.
It's Christmastime and the town is decorated to the max. In the Bakery is the Grinch and Scrooge, Gideon, 39, local Firefighter,
(on the cover) who is being hassled by friends.
Then a scream, a Santa is grabbed, and it's fun, and releases the town into wildness. Then, Liam, the Dad appears, sending shock waves through Gideon. It had been 5 years since he's seen his husband. Who's child is it?
The towns folk catch on, and soon the hilarity commences, as they steer Liam and Hazel to stay at Gideon's home.
Hazel Grace...
I love the men together. They really did fall in love years ago in Las Vegas, but an accident back home changed Liam's life.
We see their conversations, being in each other's space once again. Christmas is in full glow and Hazel loves it. Gideon doesn't know the full story yet, but they got to get to know each other better, have super hot, sexy times, and the spark has never faded.
Loved this awesome tale of love, feelings, trials and tribulations for each man.
Well written, fascinating and gripping, fun and sexy.
These series tales can stand alone, but I liked that I knew each couple more deeply.
We see the whole cast of series couples and townsfolk. It's glorious. Fabulous.
ENJOY !
======
December 8, 2019
2.5 stars
i love second chance stories and I enjoy this series so I thought this would be a slam dunk. It wasn't though. The meddling of the town was ott and while I don't usually mind books with kids this one drove me nuts. (It's not good when stories make me want to punch kids.) The Santa part and the scenes from when they first met were the only parts I really enjoyed.
i love second chance stories and I enjoy this series so I thought this would be a slam dunk. It wasn't though. The meddling of the town was ott and while I don't usually mind books with kids this one drove me nuts. (It's not good when stories make me want to punch kids.) The Santa part and the scenes from when they first met were the only parts I really enjoyed.
December 27, 2019
Five star is not enough for this book. Can i give it 10? 100? 1000?
No, but seriously. This book was amazing. This series have done something really rare. Each single book keeps being better than the one before that. I have never experienced something like this before. The Night is probably on of my favorite books ever.
I can’t even write about the story Because I’m too caught up in emotions.
No, but seriously. This book was amazing. This series have done something really rare. Each single book keeps being better than the one before that. I have never experienced something like this before. The Night is probably on of my favorite books ever.
I can’t even write about the story Because I’m too caught up in emotions.
December 9, 2019
Lifetime Christmas movie style of book. Real life escapism at its best. BUT if precocious children annoy you don’t bother. There’s a main character that’s seven but speaks like 30 year old sassy woman.
December 17, 2019
This was delightfully OTT and perfect for a Christmas story! Going back to O'Leary is like slipping into comfy pajamas.
Liam was a good character but Gideon was great. I have a huge soft spot for big gruff guys who melt for their men and children.
I KNOW Hazel was too precocious for her age but it worked for the story at least for me.
The town's meddling was unrealistic but sweet nonetheless.
I don't know how many more books Ms. Archer has planned for this series but I will keep reading them if she keeps writing them.
Liam was a good character but Gideon was great. I have a huge soft spot for big gruff guys who melt for their men and children.
I KNOW Hazel was too precocious for her age but it worked for the story at least for me.
The town's meddling was unrealistic but sweet nonetheless.
I don't know how many more books Ms. Archer has planned for this series but I will keep reading them if she keeps writing them.
December 9, 2019
4Stars!
July 2, 2023
4.5
I really, really loved this. I haven't laughed so hard at a book in ages! The thing that tipped me over into cry-laughing was vipers in the HVAC 😂😂😂😂
Honestly this entire series has been so enjoyable, and this was so close to a 5 star from me, but the 'real Santa' bit at the end is what made me knock half a star off. I don't know what it is, but I don't like paranormal / unexplainable presences in a storyworld set in reality. I'm the same with films and TV - I don't enjoy things like E.T. or Space Jam at all 😂 my mind just does not compute!!
I'm also generally not a big fan of books set at Christmas, but this is definitely an exception because it was absolutely hilarious but heartwarming at the same time.
Definitely recommend reading the O'Leary series.
I really, really loved this. I haven't laughed so hard at a book in ages! The thing that tipped me over into cry-laughing was vipers in the HVAC 😂😂😂😂
Honestly this entire series has been so enjoyable, and this was so close to a 5 star from me, but the 'real Santa' bit at the end is what made me knock half a star off. I don't know what it is, but I don't like paranormal / unexplainable presences in a storyworld set in reality. I'm the same with films and TV - I don't enjoy things like E.T. or Space Jam at all 😂 my mind just does not compute!!
I'm also generally not a big fan of books set at Christmas, but this is definitely an exception because it was absolutely hilarious but heartwarming at the same time.
Definitely recommend reading the O'Leary series.
December 11, 2019
Liam and Gideon got married 5 years ago in Vegas because they felt a CONNECTION, but 2 days later Liam left without saying a word or leaving a contact number — because his best friend had died and he had custody of her daughter, but Gideon wouldn’t have known that. Present day finds Gideon a grumpy fireman in O’Leary, and Liam on his way to O’Leary with his 8-year-old daughter Hazel Grace in tow and armed with divorce papers.
You are warned at the beginning of the book that this is the fourth in the series, and therefore there are characters from past books that make appearances. Maybe it would have made the book more enjoyable if I’d read the past books. Maybe not. While I did like Liam and Gideon and their relationship, and also rooted for them to get back together again, I’m largely dissatisfied by how it all shook out.
Major spoilers ahead as I list all the things I was dissatisfied with.
1) Gideon loved Liam so much that he was never going to get married again, but he never once thought to look up where Liam was and be like, hey, how’s it going, do you want to give that being married thing another try?
2) It was never really clear to me what the motivation was for the divorce. Was Liam planning to marry Scott, the walking mansplanation? Was it for a fresh start somewhere?
3) That long-ass introduction of everyone blatantly lying about why they couldn’t put up Liam and Hazel for the night, which was maybe imperative to show how small towny O’Leary could get, but yikes, that was long and dragged on for a fair amount. Like after 3 places, I get it. You don’t have to show me every fucking place in O’Leary that’s in on it. I get it, even grandma’s dog wouldn’t let Liam and Hazel in its kennel.
4) Purely personal — O’Leary sounds like my own personal nightmare — friendly people constantly getting in your business, providing advice, and engineering things to go as they think it should be. Like, yeah, I like and support the concept of people watching out for each other, but like … this is too much. Please butt out of my five-year marriage. I’M AN ADULT, MOM, I’LL MOPE IF I WANT TO.
But despite all that, it was enjoyable enough that I didn’t really regret reading it, just that I wish there were more improvements to like sort of tighten it up a bit. And maybe get a clearer picture on why the divorce was ever needed in the first place?
You are warned at the beginning of the book that this is the fourth in the series, and therefore there are characters from past books that make appearances. Maybe it would have made the book more enjoyable if I’d read the past books. Maybe not. While I did like Liam and Gideon and their relationship, and also rooted for them to get back together again, I’m largely dissatisfied by how it all shook out.
Major spoilers ahead as I list all the things I was dissatisfied with.
1) Gideon loved Liam so much that he was never going to get married again, but he never once thought to look up where Liam was and be like, hey, how’s it going, do you want to give that being married thing another try?
2) It was never really clear to me what the motivation was for the divorce. Was Liam planning to marry Scott, the walking mansplanation? Was it for a fresh start somewhere?
3) That long-ass introduction of everyone blatantly lying about why they couldn’t put up Liam and Hazel for the night, which was maybe imperative to show how small towny O’Leary could get, but yikes, that was long and dragged on for a fair amount. Like after 3 places, I get it. You don’t have to show me every fucking place in O’Leary that’s in on it. I get it, even grandma’s dog wouldn’t let Liam and Hazel in its kennel.
4) Purely personal — O’Leary sounds like my own personal nightmare — friendly people constantly getting in your business, providing advice, and engineering things to go as they think it should be. Like, yeah, I like and support the concept of people watching out for each other, but like … this is too much. Please butt out of my five-year marriage. I’M AN ADULT, MOM, I’LL MOPE IF I WANT TO.
But despite all that, it was enjoyable enough that I didn’t really regret reading it, just that I wish there were more improvements to like sort of tighten it up a bit. And maybe get a clearer picture on why the divorce was ever needed in the first place?
November 30, 2019
Another perfect holiday romance.
I walked away from The Night with a huge smile on my face. I adore the town of O’Leary and it’s wonderful inhabitants who have hearts of gold -- I always walk away wanting more.
Right off the bat, I adored Gideon. I have a thing for grumpy men with a sweet side and Gideon was exactly that. He comes off as this grumpy Grinch who doesn’t seem to want any type of relationship of any sort. His heart was broken five years prior and he isn’t looking for a repeat. In walks, Liam. Liam is the single father of an adorable little girl and is just trying to end something that had barely even begun.
I really enjoyed how meddling towns people of O'Leary and how everyone worked together for this couple's happy ending. This was quite a charming Christmas romance that left me with a big smile on my face and ready to spread Christmas cheer.
The Night is truly a story for everyone. It has the perfect amount of pining, sweetness and just a touch of angst to tie it all together. From a charming town of selfless people, a sexy as hell Grinch, a loving dad, an adorable little girl who has everyone wrapped tightly around her finger, maovaries exploding everyone, some very steamy fa la la-ling and of course a satisfying happy ending -- no matter where you look you'll get something that'll make you fall in love with this couple and this town.
Five fa la la-ling points. <3
I walked away from The Night with a huge smile on my face. I adore the town of O’Leary and it’s wonderful inhabitants who have hearts of gold -- I always walk away wanting more.
Right off the bat, I adored Gideon. I have a thing for grumpy men with a sweet side and Gideon was exactly that. He comes off as this grumpy Grinch who doesn’t seem to want any type of relationship of any sort. His heart was broken five years prior and he isn’t looking for a repeat. In walks, Liam. Liam is the single father of an adorable little girl and is just trying to end something that had barely even begun.
I really enjoyed how meddling towns people of O'Leary and how everyone worked together for this couple's happy ending. This was quite a charming Christmas romance that left me with a big smile on my face and ready to spread Christmas cheer.
The Night is truly a story for everyone. It has the perfect amount of pining, sweetness and just a touch of angst to tie it all together. From a charming town of selfless people, a sexy as hell Grinch, a loving dad, an adorable little girl who has everyone wrapped tightly around her finger, maovaries exploding everyone, some very steamy fa la la-ling and of course a satisfying happy ending -- no matter where you look you'll get something that'll make you fall in love with this couple and this town.
Five fa la la-ling points. <3
May 21, 2020
4✨
I don't know why, when I was reading about Parker and Jamie, that I thought Gideon was old. Like sixties old. Because clearly he is not, but apparently I'm dumb. LOL.
With that being said, this was so laugh-out-loud funny. Gideon's distaste for Christmas and his love for coffee make him completely lovable. And then the shock that he's married just upends everything. Like me flipping a table full of papers: things are everywhere!
Liam and Hazel - his daughter, but not biologically - make a trip to O'Leary so that Liam can ask Gideon to sign divorce papers after five years of marriage. Vegas, eh? But of course, the town of O'Leary can't keep anything to themselves so they force Liam and Gideon together and only heartwarming cuteness ensues. There are fiery orange kittens, Santa pictures, Christmas trees, Princess Toast, tea parties and one annoying Scott.
Let's not forget about all of the icing! ;D
But this was so adorable and honestly, it's probably a cute little story I'll re-read at Christmas to get in the mood. I loved it.
“But you looked so hot, all decked out in your fire gear, with the little orange puff ball cuddled against your big, manly chest! Ovaries and movaries exploded all over New York.”
I don't know why, when I was reading about Parker and Jamie, that I thought Gideon was old. Like sixties old. Because clearly he is not, but apparently I'm dumb. LOL.
With that being said, this was so laugh-out-loud funny. Gideon's distaste for Christmas and his love for coffee make him completely lovable. And then the shock that he's married just upends everything. Like me flipping a table full of papers: things are everywhere!
Liam and Hazel - his daughter, but not biologically - make a trip to O'Leary so that Liam can ask Gideon to sign divorce papers after five years of marriage. Vegas, eh? But of course, the town of O'Leary can't keep anything to themselves so they force Liam and Gideon together and only heartwarming cuteness ensues. There are fiery orange kittens, Santa pictures, Christmas trees, Princess Toast, tea parties and one annoying Scott.
Let's not forget about all of the icing! ;D
But this was so adorable and honestly, it's probably a cute little story I'll re-read at Christmas to get in the mood. I loved it.
June 4, 2023
Second read. Still five stars!
---------
WOW!! Five full stars! How did I not know this series existed?? Now I must go back and read all the prior m/m stories. I saw a mention of Ev being a good boy so if that's a Daddy book, it'll be at the top of the list.
Back to this story, this was an amazing second-chance, kids/family story. Hazel was amazing and Liam and Gideon were everything. Pacing was perfect. I wasn't sure how the author would reconcile Liam just leaving with us having any sympathy for him but it totally worked. The townspeople are hilarious. The humor here is really well done. Gideon and Liam were both just good men in a challenging situation. I love how it all unfolded - passionate, caring, HAWT without being cheesy and the nod to Santa at the end was great too. Love puppies better, but eh Fia was cool lol.
5 full stars!
---------
WOW!! Five full stars! How did I not know this series existed?? Now I must go back and read all the prior m/m stories. I saw a mention of Ev being a good boy so if that's a Daddy book, it'll be at the top of the list.
Back to this story, this was an amazing second-chance, kids/family story. Hazel was amazing and Liam and Gideon were everything. Pacing was perfect. I wasn't sure how the author would reconcile Liam just leaving with us having any sympathy for him but it totally worked. The townspeople are hilarious. The humor here is really well done. Gideon and Liam were both just good men in a challenging situation. I love how it all unfolded - passionate, caring, HAWT without being cheesy and the nod to Santa at the end was great too. Love puppies better, but eh Fia was cool lol.
5 full stars!
December 26, 2019
One of my faves of the series. Not sure why, I just really enjoyed it. I especially enjoyed Hazel. Low angst, holiday shenanigans, revisiting with some of the faves from the series, instalove, grumpy guy finding his joy, and awesome dad finding his place.
I like O'Leary in general. The town is so involved with everyone, but not in a way that makes me feel uncomfortable. *shrug* I don't know how to explain it.
I like O'Leary in general. The town is so involved with everyone, but not in a way that makes me feel uncomfortable. *shrug* I don't know how to explain it.
August 26, 2020
No w końcu !!! Alleluja !!!
Choć chyba raczej powinnam krzyknąć "Merry Christmas !!!" 😁😁😁
Urocza, zabawna, ciepła, MAGICZNA historia - a że świąteczna, to kto by się tam przejmował, czy prawdopodobna, czy nie 😁 W końcu święta to święta i rządzą się swoimi prawami - zwłaszcza w kwestii cudów 😁
I w tym konkretnym przypadku mieszkańcy byli kochani - a może to ja się już do nich przyzwyczaiłam? Choć chyba nie, ale to nie ma znaczenia. Bo w końcu, W KOŃCU, wszystko zgrało się i pasowało idealnie 😁
Choć chyba raczej powinnam krzyknąć "Merry Christmas !!!" 😁😁😁
Urocza, zabawna, ciepła, MAGICZNA historia - a że świąteczna, to kto by się tam przejmował, czy prawdopodobna, czy nie 😁 W końcu święta to święta i rządzą się swoimi prawami - zwłaszcza w kwestii cudów 😁
I w tym konkretnym przypadku mieszkańcy byli kochani - a może to ja się już do nich przyzwyczaiłam? Choć chyba nie, ale to nie ma znaczenia. Bo w końcu, W KOŃCU, wszystko zgrało się i pasowało idealnie 😁
October 21, 2023
Ok, I love all books written by May Archer. The last book in this series was a little bit of a disappointment, but The Night is probably my favorite in the series. It’s just about a perfect read for me.
I loved Liam and Gideon and all the crazy characters of O’Leary. In fact, if there really was such a special place I would definitely want to move there. Of course I have to mention how incredibly adorable Hazel is. She may not always sound like a 7 year old child, but that’s part of the magic of this beautiful Christmas romance. It was also fun to visit with so many characters from the previous books.
I loved Liam and Gideon and all the crazy characters of O’Leary. In fact, if there really was such a special place I would definitely want to move there. Of course I have to mention how incredibly adorable Hazel is. She may not always sound like a 7 year old child, but that’s part of the magic of this beautiful Christmas romance. It was also fun to visit with so many characters from the previous books.
December 8, 2021
Reread #4 thoughts : this will never be not wonderful 🥰
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Night by May Archer is the 5th book in her Love in O'Leary series. As it says in the synopsis it can be read as a stand alone but best enjoyed if you've read the previous books in the series. All the wonderful couples of O'Leary all come together in this book to bring happy into their friend's holiday.
"This would be the day I was finally driven to insanity by the populace of O'Leary . And I still didn't have a damn coffee in my hand."
Gideon is a jaded Grinch who dislikes everything about the holiday season. All it does is remind him of the man he fell in love with, married, and then left was abruptly left by. Now five years later, that man, Liam, with his daughter in tow has come to O'Leary looking for a divorce. The entire town has come together to force them together and take a second chance. They discover that the spark between them never disappeared and neither has the feelings that accompany it. With the help of nosey neighbors, a sassy little girl, and a little Christmas magic , Liam and Gideon are able to heal their hearts and find their happy.
"Magic was second chances when you least expected them. And magic was hope. Always hope. Those were things I'd never lose faith in again."
Where to start with everything I enjoyed about this book. I loved that all the couples form the previous books came together to help give Gideon his chance at his happily ever after. They will have you laugh out loud with the lengths they go to keeping Liam from staying anywhere but with Gideon where he and Hazel belong. Liam and Gideon reconnecting leaves your heart feeling full and fuzzy. They worked really well together from their basic interactions to their intense sexual chemistry. Also, Hazel was excellent with her sassy comments and her meddling to bring Liam and Gideon together.
"his lips parted as he breathed out "Gideon," and I wanted to promise him anything, give him anything, give him everything, keep him just like this, as close as this, forever."
The Night by May Archer is filled with 6 year old snark, over the top holiday cheer, princess tea parties and second chances. I can't stress enough how much I loved the fudge out of this book. Every fa la la minute of it. This was exactly what I wanted in a holiday O'Leary romance. The Christmastime setting was perfect for this combination of second chance romance and O'Leary shenanigans. It wasn't as angsty as some of the other stories but you still felt like it was well rounded and paced. I had a smile on my face from beginning to end. Before this, The Gift, was my all time favorite O'Leary story but now its has a partner in the number one spot.
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Night by May Archer is the 5th book in her Love in O'Leary series. As it says in the synopsis it can be read as a stand alone but best enjoyed if you've read the previous books in the series. All the wonderful couples of O'Leary all come together in this book to bring happy into their friend's holiday.
"This would be the day I was finally driven to insanity by the populace of O'Leary . And I still didn't have a damn coffee in my hand."
Gideon is a jaded Grinch who dislikes everything about the holiday season. All it does is remind him of the man he fell in love with, married, and then left was abruptly left by. Now five years later, that man, Liam, with his daughter in tow has come to O'Leary looking for a divorce. The entire town has come together to force them together and take a second chance. They discover that the spark between them never disappeared and neither has the feelings that accompany it. With the help of nosey neighbors, a sassy little girl, and a little Christmas magic , Liam and Gideon are able to heal their hearts and find their happy.
"Magic was second chances when you least expected them. And magic was hope. Always hope. Those were things I'd never lose faith in again."
Where to start with everything I enjoyed about this book. I loved that all the couples form the previous books came together to help give Gideon his chance at his happily ever after. They will have you laugh out loud with the lengths they go to keeping Liam from staying anywhere but with Gideon where he and Hazel belong. Liam and Gideon reconnecting leaves your heart feeling full and fuzzy. They worked really well together from their basic interactions to their intense sexual chemistry. Also, Hazel was excellent with her sassy comments and her meddling to bring Liam and Gideon together.
"his lips parted as he breathed out "Gideon," and I wanted to promise him anything, give him anything, give him everything, keep him just like this, as close as this, forever."
The Night by May Archer is filled with 6 year old snark, over the top holiday cheer, princess tea parties and second chances. I can't stress enough how much I loved the fudge out of this book. Every fa la la minute of it. This was exactly what I wanted in a holiday O'Leary romance. The Christmastime setting was perfect for this combination of second chance romance and O'Leary shenanigans. It wasn't as angsty as some of the other stories but you still felt like it was well rounded and paced. I had a smile on my face from beginning to end. Before this, The Gift, was my all time favorite O'Leary story but now its has a partner in the number one spot.
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