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That Turtle Story
Nor O’Brien spends his days in sunny Key West caring for and rehabilitating sea turtles. He doesn’t need anything else in life, except maybe a significant other to cuddle with after a long day. But recent heartbreak has left Nor salty, and he’s not in the mood for anything, Christmas included. Then Eugene Montgomery walks into Turtle R&R, claiming to have found a clutch of eggs in distress.
Nor is smitten with the tourist at first sight, and at the suggestion of his screwball colleagues, indulges in some no-strings-attached fun. Nor and Eugene are quick to get along, happily enjoy each other’s company, and take in the island’s unique holiday pleasures together. But Nor would never leave his turtles, not for any man. So when his rebound fling turns into strong romantic feelings for Eugene, it’ll take a Christmas miracle to keep the two together forever in Key West.
Nor is smitten with the tourist at first sight, and at the suggestion of his screwball colleagues, indulges in some no-strings-attached fun. Nor and Eugene are quick to get along, happily enjoy each other’s company, and take in the island’s unique holiday pleasures together. But Nor would never leave his turtles, not for any man. So when his rebound fling turns into strong romantic feelings for Eugene, it’ll take a Christmas miracle to keep the two together forever in Key West.
ebook
First published December 1, 2018
14 people are currently reading
137 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Poe
46 books1,280 followersC.S. Poe is an author of gay mystery, romance, and speculative fiction. She’s a winner of the Next Generation and e-Lit book awards, as well as a finalist of the Lambda Literary award.
She resides in New York City and is a Gilded Age New York historian and board director for the Victorian Society of New York. She loves Romanticism artwork, the films of Buster Keaton, coffee in the morning and whiskey in the evening, true crime, and cats. She’s rescued two cats—Milo and Kasper do their best to distract her from work on a daily basis.
C.S. is an alumna of the School of Visual Arts.
Her debut novel, The Mystery of Nevermore, was published 2016.
cspoe.com
She resides in New York City and is a Gilded Age New York historian and board director for the Victorian Society of New York. She loves Romanticism artwork, the films of Buster Keaton, coffee in the morning and whiskey in the evening, true crime, and cats. She’s rescued two cats—Milo and Kasper do their best to distract her from work on a daily basis.
C.S. is an alumna of the School of Visual Arts.
Her debut novel, The Mystery of Nevermore, was published 2016.
cspoe.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 3, 2020
4 Hearts!
It’s not surprising Nor is a bit grumpy this Christmas, as he’s newly single after a particularly bad breakup. He’s so not in the mood for any holiday cheer, but when handsome Eugene walks into the turtle rescue center where he works, Nor just might have to reconsider his resolutions.
Poe for sure delivered last year with New Game, Start, and I was not disappointed this time around either! Both Nor and Eugene each had their own endearing special charm, and I was tickled by their sweet, funny, and sexy interactions!!
My first advent read of the year is a total win, and I hope it predicts many more to come!!
Thanks to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
It’s not surprising Nor is a bit grumpy this Christmas, as he’s newly single after a particularly bad breakup. He’s so not in the mood for any holiday cheer, but when handsome Eugene walks into the turtle rescue center where he works, Nor just might have to reconsider his resolutions.
Poe for sure delivered last year with New Game, Start, and I was not disappointed this time around either! Both Nor and Eugene each had their own endearing special charm, and I was tickled by their sweet, funny, and sexy interactions!!
My first advent read of the year is a total win, and I hope it predicts many more to come!!
Thanks to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
December 4, 2018
3.5 Stars
A cute, funny, and feel-good story about Nor the grumpy turtle preservation guy and Eugene the sexy personal trainer.
This one is quick and quirky, with a fast moving plot (and relationship), a dash of wit and snark, and some exquisitely steamy sexy-times to heat things up.
Nor’s female co-worker, Gus, drove me a bit batty, but aside from that, this fun and festive read put me in a good mood.
Plus, baby turtles, y'all!!!
A cute, funny, and feel-good story about Nor the grumpy turtle preservation guy and Eugene the sexy personal trainer.
This one is quick and quirky, with a fast moving plot (and relationship), a dash of wit and snark, and some exquisitely steamy sexy-times to heat things up.
Nor’s female co-worker, Gus, drove me a bit batty, but aside from that, this fun and festive read put me in a good mood.
Plus, baby turtles, y'all!!!
December 4, 2018
OMG, that was so cute!! Just what I needed tonight :)
Read
November 29, 2018 5 Hearts
GAH! Fucking adorable but I wouldn't expect anything less.
Rambling review on the blog and then here!
GAH! Fucking adorable but I wouldn't expect anything less.
Rambling review on the blog and then here!
December 23, 2019
4 Stars
C.S. Poe is joining author Clare London as one of my favorite holiday treats! Both have a delightful way with creating happiness, humor, and heart.
Spending time with these holiday stories makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.
Pure comfort reading!
C.S. Poe is joining author Clare London as one of my favorite holiday treats! Both have a delightful way with creating happiness, humor, and heart.
Spending time with these holiday stories makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.
Pure comfort reading!
December 14, 2018
4.5 stars
This was such a fun story. Once again C. S. Poe delivers snappy dialogue and endearing characters.
Nor may be a bit grumpy this holiday season, but hey, he's still dwelling on the ex nobody liked. Never mind that all his co-workers are all up in his business about getting out there and getting some already. When hottie with a huge heart Eugene walks into the rescue center to report a clutch of turtle eggs, Nor can't deny that he'd do that. Maybe a rebound fling with a tourist is just the ticket. Nor and Eugene bond over turtle eggs and some awkward dates as Nor realizes that for him, Eugene is the one, but also the one he can never have. Or can he?
This was adorable, sexy, sweet and dirty, and full of Key West scenery, including a unique Christmas parade. It's a holiday story worth reading. I'm sure it'll be one of my go-to Christmas reads in the future.
This was such a fun story. Once again C. S. Poe delivers snappy dialogue and endearing characters.
Nor may be a bit grumpy this holiday season, but hey, he's still dwelling on the ex nobody liked. Never mind that all his co-workers are all up in his business about getting out there and getting some already. When hottie with a huge heart Eugene walks into the rescue center to report a clutch of turtle eggs, Nor can't deny that he'd do that. Maybe a rebound fling with a tourist is just the ticket. Nor and Eugene bond over turtle eggs and some awkward dates as Nor realizes that for him, Eugene is the one, but also the one he can never have. Or can he?
This was adorable, sexy, sweet and dirty, and full of Key West scenery, including a unique Christmas parade. It's a holiday story worth reading. I'm sure it'll be one of my go-to Christmas reads in the future.
September 6, 2021
This book features turtles, turtle eggs, love when you last expect it, and the sun and sand and water of Key West, all mixed together into a lovely holiday read. Nor works at a turtle rescue and when Eugene walks in, claiming to have found a nest of turtle eggs at a popular tourist beach, Nor sweeps in to protect the little eggs. Along the way, he and Eugene share some wonderful moments like a Christmas parade as only Key West can do it and a haunted trolley tour. This story has a bit of spice, a lot of heart, and a sweet ending. Enjoy! 4 stars.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
Read
December 30, 2019A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
C.S. Poe has a way with creating endearing, quirky characters and she delivers another charming set of MCs and story in That Turtle Story. Even though Nor knows he’s better off without his childish boyfriend, dealing with the post-breakup blues during the Christmas season has left him acting a bit grinchy.
That Turtle Story is a good blend of cute, funny and delightful and is a great holiday read.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
C.S. Poe has a way with creating endearing, quirky characters and she delivers another charming set of MCs and story in That Turtle Story. Even though Nor knows he’s better off without his childish boyfriend, dealing with the post-breakup blues during the Christmas season has left him acting a bit grinchy.
That Turtle Story is a good blend of cute, funny and delightful and is a great holiday read.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
May 18, 2019
4.0 Stars
Another adorable (and sexy this time) addition to my holiday read-shelf. CSP has a real talent for making short stories (especially the characerization) feel complete in so few pages. Also, I almost expected to run across Aubrey (from Southernmost Murder) - but didn't - because the Key West setting is so well-described and there were a couple other really quirky characters. For some reason he seems like he'd be friends with Nor.
(So glad Hoopla has these Warmest Wishes books for me to borrow!!)
Another adorable (and sexy this time) addition to my holiday read-shelf. CSP has a real talent for making short stories (especially the characerization) feel complete in so few pages. Also, I almost expected to run across Aubrey (from Southernmost Murder) - but didn't - because the Key West setting is so well-described and there were a couple other really quirky characters. For some reason he seems like he'd be friends with Nor.
(So glad Hoopla has these Warmest Wishes books for me to borrow!!)
December 24, 2018
Cute, cute, cute. I really need to read more short stories because they are often cute and drama free. I am a huge fan of CS Poe and am making my way thru all her titles. She has a real talent and I highly recommend all her books. And if you love turtles, these babies are adorable! :)
December 2, 2018
3.75 stars rounded up
Nor still hasn't ready to open himself to chances, after experiencing a bad break-up. But then Eugene walks into the Turtle R&R where Nor works, claiming that he sees a clutch of turtle eggs unattended and well, Nor finds himself rather smitten. Even if he doesn't know how to deal when Eugene leaves Key West after his vacation is over.
TURTLES!!! Turtle eggs!! Baby Turtles!! The turtles are one of the highlights of this story, for sure! *laugh*. Well, the story itself is adorable. Nor is a bit drama llama, but I enjoyed his personality. Maybe because it's a short one, so it doesn't bother me a lot. Plus I loved it when he rattled and ended up RAMBLING *laugh*
Oh the part where Nor and Eugene made me teary eyed, just a smidgen :)
Nor still hasn't ready to open himself to chances, after experiencing a bad break-up. But then Eugene walks into the Turtle R&R where Nor works, claiming that he sees a clutch of turtle eggs unattended and well, Nor finds himself rather smitten. Even if he doesn't know how to deal when Eugene leaves Key West after his vacation is over.
TURTLES!!! Turtle eggs!! Baby Turtles!! The turtles are one of the highlights of this story, for sure! *laugh*. Well, the story itself is adorable. Nor is a bit drama llama, but I enjoyed his personality. Maybe because it's a short one, so it doesn't bother me a lot. Plus I loved it when he rattled and ended up RAMBLING *laugh*
Oh the part where Nor and Eugene made me teary eyed, just a smidgen :)
December 3, 2018
Today's Dreamspinner Advent Release...
‘That Turtle Story’ is just one of the stories included in this years advent calendar by Dreamspinner Press. Each year they put out holiday stories created by their authors. It’s a great way to check out some new authors, visit with some old ones and kick off the holiday season.
For me ‘That Turtle Story’ is a chance to read something but an author who’s become a must read for me. C. S. Poe is taking us to Key West for the Holidays where we’ll meet Nor O’Brien who spends his days rehabilitating turtles and nursing his heart as he’s nursing a broken heart following the end of a relationship that was less than stellar. As the holiday approaches Nor gets his Scrooge on until Eugene Montgomery arrive at the R&R wanting some to rescue a clutch of eggs that he’s sure isn’t doing well.
It’s as Nor and Eugene work together to rescue the turtles that their attraction begins to develop and before Nor knows it, what started as a light flirtation turns into a first date.
Nor and Eugene were to say the least adorable together. I loved Eugene, he was sweet and thoughtful with his sincere desire to bring some fun into Nor’s life.
Most of the story was taken up with the progression of Nor and Eugene’s relationship as they went from strangers to friends to lovers. It’s all holiday fun until assumptions are made and communication breaks down and it’s going to take Eugene’s optimistic and determined nature to get through Nor’s defenses and hear what hasn’t been said. I loved this story while the miscommunication may have been the biggest contributor to Nor and Eugene’s problem the solutions not complex or convoluted…but it is heartwarming and sweet.
‘That Turtle Story’ may be set in a warm and sunny locale, but whether it’s hot and sunny or cold and snowing…Christmas is Christmas and for many it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
*************************
A copy of ‘That Turtle Story’ was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
‘That Turtle Story’ is just one of the stories included in this years advent calendar by Dreamspinner Press. Each year they put out holiday stories created by their authors. It’s a great way to check out some new authors, visit with some old ones and kick off the holiday season.
For me ‘That Turtle Story’ is a chance to read something but an author who’s become a must read for me. C. S. Poe is taking us to Key West for the Holidays where we’ll meet Nor O’Brien who spends his days rehabilitating turtles and nursing his heart as he’s nursing a broken heart following the end of a relationship that was less than stellar. As the holiday approaches Nor gets his Scrooge on until Eugene Montgomery arrive at the R&R wanting some to rescue a clutch of eggs that he’s sure isn’t doing well.
It’s as Nor and Eugene work together to rescue the turtles that their attraction begins to develop and before Nor knows it, what started as a light flirtation turns into a first date.
Nor and Eugene were to say the least adorable together. I loved Eugene, he was sweet and thoughtful with his sincere desire to bring some fun into Nor’s life.
Most of the story was taken up with the progression of Nor and Eugene’s relationship as they went from strangers to friends to lovers. It’s all holiday fun until assumptions are made and communication breaks down and it’s going to take Eugene’s optimistic and determined nature to get through Nor’s defenses and hear what hasn’t been said. I loved this story while the miscommunication may have been the biggest contributor to Nor and Eugene’s problem the solutions not complex or convoluted…but it is heartwarming and sweet.
‘That Turtle Story’ may be set in a warm and sunny locale, but whether it’s hot and sunny or cold and snowing…Christmas is Christmas and for many it’s the most wonderful time of the year.
*************************
A copy of ‘That Turtle Story’ was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2018
✩ ✩ ✩ ✩ 4-STAR ✩ REVIEW ✩ ✩ ✩ ✩
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
Cutesy cover shows a young man standing before the ocean/gulf with the sun touching the horizon and a random sea turtle lounging on shore. Overlayed is the DSP Anthology coverup. Synopsis was cute.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> First person (Nor)
Still recovering from the heartbreak of being dumped, Nor puts his energies into Turtle R&R. His obnoxious volunteer, Gus, suggests a fling but that’s just not who he is – besides, the pickin’s are awful slim in Key West nearing Christmas.
Eugene arrives at Turtle R&R, informing them of a nest in jeopardy of ruination. Gus’s meddling mouth gets the cogs moving and wheels spinning for these two and soon they’re off discovering more about one another while trying to save nearly 100 baby turtles.
You know what they say about assuming though… a miscommunication by way of assumption nearly ruins things but they quickly resolve it and find their HFN / implied HEA.
Story was cute, written smoothly and contained enough content to be enjoyable.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.2 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
> > Judging a Book by its Cover < <
Cutesy cover shows a young man standing before the ocean/gulf with the sun touching the horizon and a random sea turtle lounging on shore. Overlayed is the DSP Anthology coverup. Synopsis was cute.
> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> First person (Nor)
Still recovering from the heartbreak of being dumped, Nor puts his energies into Turtle R&R. His obnoxious volunteer, Gus, suggests a fling but that’s just not who he is – besides, the pickin’s are awful slim in Key West nearing Christmas.
Eugene arrives at Turtle R&R, informing them of a nest in jeopardy of ruination. Gus’s meddling mouth gets the cogs moving and wheels spinning for these two and soon they’re off discovering more about one another while trying to save nearly 100 baby turtles.
You know what they say about assuming though… a miscommunication by way of assumption nearly ruins things but they quickly resolve it and find their HFN / implied HEA.
Story was cute, written smoothly and contained enough content to be enjoyable.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.2 ~ Stars: 4
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
December 9, 2018
A sweet and fun read.
I didn't get much of a Christmas vibe but I still enjoyed this tale of stranded turtles and love.
Thanks Monika
I didn't get much of a Christmas vibe but I still enjoyed this tale of stranded turtles and love.
Thanks Monika
March 17, 2019
ADORABLE!!!! Total Turtle Fluff! I absolutely LOVED this short story from CS Poe!! Grumpy turtle guy, ab-a-licious personal trainer hottie, turtle eggs, Santas on bicycles, and the magic of Key West at Christmas!!
Highly recommended!!!
Highly recommended!!!
December 4, 2018
Cute, funny Christmas fun. I was pulling for Eugene and Nor, and of course for the turtles!
December 6, 2018
When Eugene Montgomery comes to the Turtle R&R to report he found a nest of turtle eggs on the beach and it appears some eggs are already damaged, biologist Nor O’Brien rushes to save them. He can’t keep from eyeing the gorgeous eye candy either. Nor is single and frustrated. Small and nerdy, the 28-year-old is hoping to find the man of his dreams—someone who might look a lot like Eugene—big, buff, and, hopefully, interested in turtles. But it’s apparent Eugene is on vacation, and Nor doesn’t do flings.
Well, not usually, anyway. At least that’s what he tells himself when the two end up in bed. But the good news is that Eugene does indeed love turtles, and Nor eventually learns he’s been mistaken about Eugune all along. He’s not on vacation—he’s moved here permanently to start his own business. Nor may really have met the man of his dreams, after all.
This story was sweet—and almost too short. But the author, who has a way with word crafting, was able to fit in a lot of detail about the turtle sanctuary, the rescue of the loggerhead eggs, time for dating, and even a sex scene. I would have loved this to be longer, but what we got was really interesting and heartwarming. Plus, both characters were sketched-in enough that I really enjoyed being with them on this adventure.
I definitely recommend this story, especially to those of us who live in Florida and have to “make do” with sandy beaches instead of snow for the holidays.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
Well, not usually, anyway. At least that’s what he tells himself when the two end up in bed. But the good news is that Eugene does indeed love turtles, and Nor eventually learns he’s been mistaken about Eugune all along. He’s not on vacation—he’s moved here permanently to start his own business. Nor may really have met the man of his dreams, after all.
This story was sweet—and almost too short. But the author, who has a way with word crafting, was able to fit in a lot of detail about the turtle sanctuary, the rescue of the loggerhead eggs, time for dating, and even a sex scene. I would have loved this to be longer, but what we got was really interesting and heartwarming. Plus, both characters were sketched-in enough that I really enjoyed being with them on this adventure.
I definitely recommend this story, especially to those of us who live in Florida and have to “make do” with sandy beaches instead of snow for the holidays.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
December 2, 2018
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by DreamSpinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.**
There are two things I’m not typically a fan of when it comes to my reading material (well, there’s more than that, but for this purpose) and that’s short stories and Christmas stories. But, no one can do a short story like CS Poe which is why I was eager to read That Turtle Story. It is short, but no one packs a story like she does!
We get the awkward Nor who prefers to spend his time caring for sea turtles and is avoiding men and relationships. Well, that is until someone like Eugene who is just as beautiful internally as he is externally. Both men feel the attraction for each other and though there’s some miscommunication, they adult it up and work it out. In this story you don’t just get two men finding each other, you get information on sea turtles, which I absolutely loved!
I didn’t find this book overly Christmassy, and I didn’t feel the story was too rushed. Would I read more about Nor and Eugene, absolutely! But, I was also happy with this quick story I did get in a week of their lives! This was a truly enjoyable quick read that lets you feel all the happy, squishy feelings that a good romance should do. Make sure you grab this author’s book in the Dreamspinner Press 2018 Advent Calendar “Warmest Wishes”!
Rating: 5 stars
There are two things I’m not typically a fan of when it comes to my reading material (well, there’s more than that, but for this purpose) and that’s short stories and Christmas stories. But, no one can do a short story like CS Poe which is why I was eager to read That Turtle Story. It is short, but no one packs a story like she does!
We get the awkward Nor who prefers to spend his time caring for sea turtles and is avoiding men and relationships. Well, that is until someone like Eugene who is just as beautiful internally as he is externally. Both men feel the attraction for each other and though there’s some miscommunication, they adult it up and work it out. In this story you don’t just get two men finding each other, you get information on sea turtles, which I absolutely loved!
I didn’t find this book overly Christmassy, and I didn’t feel the story was too rushed. Would I read more about Nor and Eugene, absolutely! But, I was also happy with this quick story I did get in a week of their lives! This was a truly enjoyable quick read that lets you feel all the happy, squishy feelings that a good romance should do. Make sure you grab this author’s book in the Dreamspinner Press 2018 Advent Calendar “Warmest Wishes”!
Rating: 5 stars
November 25, 2018
Set in sunny Key West (same as Southernmost Murder), this was a fast, fun and delightful read. Nor is still a bit of a crabby pants a month after his breakup with his ex. With Christmas right around the corner, he’s just not in the mood for all the festivities.
In walks Eugene – literally. Eugene has the sun-kissed looks of a tourist catching some December rays before returning to northern climes.
Nor and Eugene bond over baby turtle eggs, and we get to see just how devoted Nor is to the sea turtles. As Nor and Eugene share a Christmas parade, a haunted trolley tour, cuddles, and Nor’s love of turtles, Nor decides it’s too much after his recent break-up.
And that’s where my review is going to stop. Nor is a hopeless romantic. Eugene is a delightful counterpoint to Nor. The back up characters keep things from sliding into sticky-sweet candycane land. And the turtles! Turtles are awesome. The story is awesome. Go grab a cuppa hot cocoa and marshmallows and take a hour and a half to sit back and enjoy.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!
In walks Eugene – literally. Eugene has the sun-kissed looks of a tourist catching some December rays before returning to northern climes.
Nor and Eugene bond over baby turtle eggs, and we get to see just how devoted Nor is to the sea turtles. As Nor and Eugene share a Christmas parade, a haunted trolley tour, cuddles, and Nor’s love of turtles, Nor decides it’s too much after his recent break-up.
And that’s where my review is going to stop. Nor is a hopeless romantic. Eugene is a delightful counterpoint to Nor. The back up characters keep things from sliding into sticky-sweet candycane land. And the turtles! Turtles are awesome. The story is awesome. Go grab a cuppa hot cocoa and marshmallows and take a hour and a half to sit back and enjoy.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!
November 29, 2018
So, after a bad breakup, Nor didn't really want to have any serious relationship, except casual. And it was kinda hard in a small town finding a gay guy for him, even for a 'casual'.
Then enter Eugene, and Nor made assumption about him from the get go.
You know one thing about assumption, right? It's a mother of all fuck-up.
Good thing is, Eugene is 'that guy', you know the guy of your dream and liked to talk than make assumption.
This was funny, adorable and heartwarming. I liked to read how much Nor loved his turtles, and Eugene is definitely someone he was looking for. Liked turtles, and eat tofu :)
A very sweet holiday story. Oh, and an annoying girl named Gus! :))
December 2, 2018
Honestly, I don't know why this annoyed me. Maybe the humor was just a little off for me? Plus it seemed a little meta. Like, we'll do the whole miscommunication trope, but that's okay, because we'll be all self-aware about the miscommunication trope so it won't really be the same as all the other miscommunication tropes out there.
December 10, 2018
This was such a cute short story. I would expect nothing less from a story with turtles in it!
I loved how awkward Nor was. Eugene was sweet and charming.
A great read in this package.
I loved how awkward Nor was. Eugene was sweet and charming.
A great read in this package.
May 19, 2019
Cute.
June 13, 2020
Nor O'Brien is just coming out of a painful breakup. Christmas or not, he's in a rotten mood which is being exacerbated by his coworker, Gus, who is currently singing Christmas songs. The last thing Nor wants to be is “jolly”. Gus suggests that a one-night-stand might make Nor feel better, but Nor doubts it will help. He's not that type of guy; he wants a monogamous relationship. While stewing in his malcontent, he's distracted by one of the most handsome men he's ever seen coming into the turtle rescue where he works. It seems that the new guy, Eugene Montgomery, has found a clutch of turtle eggs and is concerned enough about them being trampled to come into the rescue for help. It seems far-fetched, especially so late in the year, but they can't take a chance of ignoring the notification. Since they are shorthanded so near the holiday, Eugene volunteers to show Nor where the eggs are and help rescue them.
It's obvious to both men that they are attracted to each other. Nor wants to take Gus's advice, but still isn't sure if he has the temperament to make it work. He and Eugene get along famously and it's not long before their friends with benefits arrangement takes a more serious turn. Nor tries so hard to keep his cool and be casual, especially since he knows Eugene will be leaving soon, but he overthinks it, panics, and decides to walk away before he gets hurt again.
I really liked this story, probably because it is about a rescue organization. I liked Nor even though I got frustrated with him overreacting without trying to sort it out with Eugene. I liked Eugene a lot; I especially loved how Eugene got so invested with waiting for the turtle eggs to hatch and how excited he is with releasing the baby turtles. Thanks, C.S., for the uplifting story and the happy ending.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
It's obvious to both men that they are attracted to each other. Nor wants to take Gus's advice, but still isn't sure if he has the temperament to make it work. He and Eugene get along famously and it's not long before their friends with benefits arrangement takes a more serious turn. Nor tries so hard to keep his cool and be casual, especially since he knows Eugene will be leaving soon, but he overthinks it, panics, and decides to walk away before he gets hurt again.
I really liked this story, probably because it is about a rescue organization. I liked Nor even though I got frustrated with him overreacting without trying to sort it out with Eugene. I liked Eugene a lot; I especially loved how Eugene got so invested with waiting for the turtle eggs to hatch and how excited he is with releasing the baby turtles. Thanks, C.S., for the uplifting story and the happy ending.
NOTE: The first edition of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 2, 2018
4.25 Stars!
Nor spends his days rescuing and caring for sea turtles. His recent breakup has soured his mood about almost everything including Christmas. His coworker suggests that he get laid to get over his ex, but Nor isn't interested. Then Eugene walks into the clinic. Eugene helps Nor rescue some turtle eggs from the beach and flusters Nor at the same time.
I liked Nor, even at his grumpiest. He loves his work and wants the best for all the turtle they rescue. When he's flustered, he's absolutely adorable. Eugene was wonderful, too. He finds Nor adorable and sexy. He pursues him and makes sure that Nor knows that he's interested.
This story is super cute. The banter that Nor and his coworkers get into are funny and made me smile; they clearly care about Nor. The cast of characters was unique and fun. I think most would like this novella.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Nor spends his days rescuing and caring for sea turtles. His recent breakup has soured his mood about almost everything including Christmas. His coworker suggests that he get laid to get over his ex, but Nor isn't interested. Then Eugene walks into the clinic. Eugene helps Nor rescue some turtle eggs from the beach and flusters Nor at the same time.
I liked Nor, even at his grumpiest. He loves his work and wants the best for all the turtle they rescue. When he's flustered, he's absolutely adorable. Eugene was wonderful, too. He finds Nor adorable and sexy. He pursues him and makes sure that Nor knows that he's interested.
This story is super cute. The banter that Nor and his coworkers get into are funny and made me smile; they clearly care about Nor. The cast of characters was unique and fun. I think most would like this novella.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 17, 2018
4.5 Stars
Who doesn’t love a man who loves animals? Another gem of a story in Week 1 of DSP’s 2018 Advent Calendar. I expect it with C.S. Poe and I always look forward to her contributions to these collections. The banter between Nor and Eugene, well, Nor and anyone really, was tops. He’s such a funny faux curmudgeon, which is the best kind of curmudgeon to be. I appreciated how the author took the miscommunication trope and used it for good in The Turtle Story. Nor owned his misguided idiocy brilliantly and I loved Eugene’s gentle patience with Nor’s nonsense. I really could feel his appreciation of Nor throughout the story and Nor needed that. The whole story is very sweet and funny, definitely an annual holiday reread.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
Who doesn’t love a man who loves animals? Another gem of a story in Week 1 of DSP’s 2018 Advent Calendar. I expect it with C.S. Poe and I always look forward to her contributions to these collections. The banter between Nor and Eugene, well, Nor and anyone really, was tops. He’s such a funny faux curmudgeon, which is the best kind of curmudgeon to be. I appreciated how the author took the miscommunication trope and used it for good in The Turtle Story. Nor owned his misguided idiocy brilliantly and I loved Eugene’s gentle patience with Nor’s nonsense. I really could feel his appreciation of Nor throughout the story and Nor needed that. The whole story is very sweet and funny, definitely an annual holiday reread.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
December 20, 2018
Was 3.5/5 but I dropped half a star because one of the MCs vaped (fruity pebbles flavor). It was cute otherwise and I liked the turtles.
March 16, 2020
This was very cute and quite a lot of fun! With a fling that is determined to be a get over it rebound thing, Nor takes a leap and goes out on a date with the hottie who brings at risk turtle eggs to attention. But not only does it help him get over his ex, Nor quickly finds himself getting into Eugene. Soon Nor is realizing that he isn't great at flings, that Eugene is everything he's ever wanted, and that he can't deal with a long distance relationship with a tourist. Figuring out how to get the guy he wants rather than a broken heart seems impossible but something has to be done. It was a fun story that really just let these two embrace getting out and being together and taking advantage of trying something new. It showed the problems with the old relationship by shining a light on them through the things that work out right with the new one. Most of all, it took what can be a big and angsty relationship destroying romance trope and made it into something fixable with just a bit of understanding and hope. Very fun short!
November 17, 2024
A quick fun romance after a bad breakup Nor is not happy about Christmas and has no Christmas cheer. The only thing he has is the turtles at the turtle rescue he works at that is until Eugene walks in.
This was a great fast moving story line with two great main characters. I also loved hearing about the turtles. I really wish this wasn't a stand alone and we could hear more about this couple
This was a great fast moving story line with two great main characters. I also loved hearing about the turtles. I really wish this wasn't a stand alone and we could hear more about this couple
January 8, 2019
Adorable.
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