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Elves After Dark #5
I See the Light
Heath had always been a misfit – a weirdo who went all over town in a tank top and shorts even on a coldest day; who claimed his dog could talk to him; who saw this blinding light every Christmas Eve coming from the woods behind his house that no one else saw.
Even his mother made all sorts of excuses to stay far away from him. If it had not been for his grandma - who did love him despite all his oddness, he would never have had anyone to call his own.
The night before Christmas, with the silliest plan in mind and his coward dog tagging along, he sets out to find the true source of the mysterious light he sees from his window. When he finds the cheerful bunch of elves gathered around the magical bonfire celebrating like kids high on sugar, Heath could not be more excited. Then, finding out that he is half elf and half human gives a meaning to his life; finally understanding the reason behind his weirdness.
Buddying up with a cute elf named Shea for the night to see what it means to possess the magic of an elf, Heath goes on a journey to spread the gift of happiness amongst those who have been good this year. But when the night comes to an end, he is asked to make a decision.
Whether to embrace the magic of an elf within him completely or become a plain, old human and go back to living an ordinary life; back in the world where he was never accepted and to the universe which didn’t have Shea in it…
Even his mother made all sorts of excuses to stay far away from him. If it had not been for his grandma - who did love him despite all his oddness, he would never have had anyone to call his own.
The night before Christmas, with the silliest plan in mind and his coward dog tagging along, he sets out to find the true source of the mysterious light he sees from his window. When he finds the cheerful bunch of elves gathered around the magical bonfire celebrating like kids high on sugar, Heath could not be more excited. Then, finding out that he is half elf and half human gives a meaning to his life; finally understanding the reason behind his weirdness.
Buddying up with a cute elf named Shea for the night to see what it means to possess the magic of an elf, Heath goes on a journey to spread the gift of happiness amongst those who have been good this year. But when the night comes to an end, he is asked to make a decision.
Whether to embrace the magic of an elf within him completely or become a plain, old human and go back to living an ordinary life; back in the world where he was never accepted and to the universe which didn’t have Shea in it…
124 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 20, 2020
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88 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
November 20, 2020
The people have no eyes for the fact how special little Heath is. His mother abandoned him and he grew up with his grandma near the woods. Being the village weirdo and no friends.
After his grandma died his only friend is his dog, Leo. From when he was a child he saw a bright light in the woods the night before Christmas. No one else who ever saw it.
One year he decides to go to the light, he has to know where it comes from.
There he meets Shea, a cute elf and it seems they have similarities.
In the woods with the elves, Heath gets answers to questions he had all his life.
The story felt a bit for the young ones, it was sweet but not quite an adult story.
Maybe a bit, It’s about fate and intervention or to not intervene, about consequences of it,
helping the ones in need. There is some magic and some cute kisses and shy attraction.
The writing itself was well done, it had a good pace and flow.
A sweet story in the spirit of Santa and Christmas.
After his grandma died his only friend is his dog, Leo. From when he was a child he saw a bright light in the woods the night before Christmas. No one else who ever saw it.
One year he decides to go to the light, he has to know where it comes from.
There he meets Shea, a cute elf and it seems they have similarities.
In the woods with the elves, Heath gets answers to questions he had all his life.
The story felt a bit for the young ones, it was sweet but not quite an adult story.
Maybe a bit, It’s about fate and intervention or to not intervene, about consequences of it,
helping the ones in need. There is some magic and some cute kisses and shy attraction.
The writing itself was well done, it had a good pace and flow.
A sweet story in the spirit of Santa and Christmas.
December 13, 2021
What do elves do in the woods at night?
Or during the day? Now is your chance to visit some good human people and some good elves. Even Santa may show up if you are good. Just remember your shoes and socks. The snow is cold in the woods.
Or during the day? Now is your chance to visit some good human people and some good elves. Even Santa may show up if you are good. Just remember your shoes and socks. The snow is cold in the woods.
November 25, 2020
“I See the Light” was a sweet magical Christmas story. I absolutely fell in love with Heath and his furry sidekick Leo. Heath has been through so much but he never let it get him down and he soon finds Shea, and discovers why he’s different. I thought “I See the Light” was well written and the characters well written, I felt like I was there with Heath, Leo and Shea discovering the magic of Christmas. If you’re looking for a sweet novella to get you in the mood for Christmas, then give this one a chance, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I give this book 4 stars.
This review is based on an advanced copy received from the author.
I give this book 4 stars.
This review is based on an advanced copy received from the author.
December 20, 2020
I liked the beginning. It was sad that Heath was an outcast and what he had to deal with. I didn’t get why he still had his mother’s number though when it was clear he’d been abandoned. It was a shame about the father. I didn’t see any romance between Shea and Heath, one has abandonment issues, the other conditioned to follow rules. I could see them as friends at the most. I started to dislike Heath when he became pushy and judgmental. It was a sad situation that he just barrelled into. Dark themes and hard choices. Favourite part was Leo and their friendship.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2020
As I am prone to do when something pops up in a story that makes me curious, I jumped right over to YouTube and watched Kelly Clarkson's "Stronger" and enjoyed it... *grin*
Even though this was an extremely slow-moving book that takes place within a 24-hour period, and was as a general rule VERY "meh" it had several excellent scenes that really touched my heart! I have to share this one thought though... not being an animal lover (don't hate on me! *grin*) I was surprised to see that my favorite character and the one that stole the show was Leo... go figure?
This was a short, sweet story that taught a much-needed lesson... now, if the world could just learn that lesson it would be a much better place... grrr
BTW: Adorable cover! :D
Even though this was an extremely slow-moving book that takes place within a 24-hour period, and was as a general rule VERY "meh" it had several excellent scenes that really touched my heart! I have to share this one thought though... not being an animal lover (don't hate on me! *grin*) I was surprised to see that my favorite character and the one that stole the show was Leo... go figure?
This was a short, sweet story that taught a much-needed lesson... now, if the world could just learn that lesson it would be a much better place... grrr
BTW: Adorable cover! :D
November 15, 2020
A heartwarming novella that celebrates the spirit of Christmas, love, sacrifice and what it means to be human.
The story follows Heath, a lost but brave soul who's always tried to fit in, to not be considered different, make his grandma proud whilst doing his best to ignore the call of light in the deep woods that has been beckoning his soul since the very beginning.
When he does give into the call, he discovers a world beyond his own, the consequences of choices we make and a love of his own.
Though it follows the theme of a holiday novella it was lovely how the author emphasized the power of love, sacrifice, the struggles behind being deemed different, the need to belong and the importance of being true to oneself.
The writing style is engaging and I loved the imagery painted by the author's descriptions.
Leo and his hilarious banter were an absolute treat to read. Heath's character is so well written that it's hard not to fall in love with how adorable he is and when he does meet Shea- the two are so sweet together.
The perfect read if you are looking for adorable romance that will get you in the Yuletide spirit. Looking forward to reading more of Heath and Shea's adventures. Happy Holidays! *Croaks along to Buble’s ‘It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas’*
ARC received in exchange of honest review
The story follows Heath, a lost but brave soul who's always tried to fit in, to not be considered different, make his grandma proud whilst doing his best to ignore the call of light in the deep woods that has been beckoning his soul since the very beginning.
When he does give into the call, he discovers a world beyond his own, the consequences of choices we make and a love of his own.
Though it follows the theme of a holiday novella it was lovely how the author emphasized the power of love, sacrifice, the struggles behind being deemed different, the need to belong and the importance of being true to oneself.
The writing style is engaging and I loved the imagery painted by the author's descriptions.
|"The moonlight had washed over the trees around him, as well as the ground beneath him. In the moon’s glow, everything looked so enigmatic. How could something so beautiful be so scary?"|
Leo and his hilarious banter were an absolute treat to read. Heath's character is so well written that it's hard not to fall in love with how adorable he is and when he does meet Shea- the two are so sweet together.
The perfect read if you are looking for adorable romance that will get you in the Yuletide spirit. Looking forward to reading more of Heath and Shea's adventures. Happy Holidays! *Croaks along to Buble’s ‘It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas’*
ARC received in exchange of honest review
November 24, 2020
4.25 Stars
Heath is still grieving the loss of his beloved Gramma—the one person who'd always supported him—when he decides to follow the light he'd been seeing ever since he was a little boy. What he finds there is beyond anything he could have imagined and now he needs to make a decision, stay with his newfound friend Shea in this new world or go back to his normal life where he's never really fit in?
This was such a sweet, lovely read. I really liked Heath and Shea. I could feel the connection between them and I was totally invested in them finding a way to remain together. A great, feel-good Christmas story that will leave you with a smile on your face. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Heath is still grieving the loss of his beloved Gramma—the one person who'd always supported him—when he decides to follow the light he'd been seeing ever since he was a little boy. What he finds there is beyond anything he could have imagined and now he needs to make a decision, stay with his newfound friend Shea in this new world or go back to his normal life where he's never really fit in?
This was such a sweet, lovely read. I really liked Heath and Shea. I could feel the connection between them and I was totally invested in them finding a way to remain together. A great, feel-good Christmas story that will leave you with a smile on your face. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
November 18, 2020
I love, love, loved this story!! We got to enjoy seeing Heath from childhood to adulthood and though there was some strife and angst, as there always is in a good "human-growth" story, it has a great ending!! That is all the spoilers you will get from me, I do not like to give them, I love to let you find out for yourself!! :D :D This book had me hooked from beginning to end and all I paused for was a nap and eating. I hope you enjoy this Christmas heartwarmer as much as I did! Arden has won me over as an author with this book!!
November 13, 2020
This is a wonderful Christmas story about a man who's been on the outside his entire life. His grandmother loved him for who he is, but everyone else, including his mother, doesn't understand him. But Heath is the sweetest character, but when he goes to investigate lights he's seen for years with his trusty dog, he discovers an entire new world. Shea is supportive, loving, and the perfect partner for Heath. This is a sweet read!
November 19, 2020
I See the Light is the 5th book in the Elves After Dark series by multiple authors. This book is written by Arden O'Keefe. The story is about half elf half human Heath and elf Shea. This story was sweet and I really liked it.
November 9, 2020
Poor Heath. Still grieving for his grandmother, he finds the courage to investigate the light he sees every year at Christmas and finds the truth of himself.
The situation that Shea takes him to witness was really sad and I enjoyed the way it turned out.
It's a really sweet novella, though I would have maybe liked a little more to explain if eventually things worked out for the little boy, and if a half-elf and elf could be together, but this ending let's me imagine what I want.
The situation that Shea takes him to witness was really sad and I enjoyed the way it turned out.
It's a really sweet novella, though I would have maybe liked a little more to explain if eventually things worked out for the little boy, and if a half-elf and elf could be together, but this ending let's me imagine what I want.
November 9, 2020
I absolutely LOVED this sweet, charming, poignant, grab-you-by-the-feels, delightful, tender, a little bit sad, hilarious, engaging, endearing, tug-at-your-heartstrings, unconventional, unexpected, and totally awesome Christmas story. Heath and Shea were so perfect for each other, and Leo was a real riot. I must admit to wanting to rattle the teeth of a certain character. I would recommend getting this marvelous gem ASAP!
December 23, 2020
They were things I enjoyed a lot about this book and there were things I thought were just meh but overall it was an enjoyable read. A big plus, for me was O’Keefe didn’t rush any extra romance into the story just ‘cause. I really, really enjoyed Leo, he stole the show.
November 24, 2020
Last night I needed a distraction—you know how 2020 has been. Usually I gravitate toward pure angst in books, but I was in the mood for something different. Something lighter, something hopeful. On Facebook, I’d noticed that Arden O’Keefe’s contribution to Elves After Dark series, I See the Light, had received many positive reviews, so I picked up my Kindle and a few seconds later it was mine.
What a sweet surprise from a new-to-me author! Right off the bat I knew that O’Keefe is a consummate storyteller. It was as if I was reading a fairy tale designed for adults, like me, who desperately need to step away from the many worries of politics and the pandemic into a world where there’s a brilliant light in the distance that signifies truth and hope. The optimism and purity in O’Keefe’s author’s voice shined through—the perfect remedy for my jaded 2020 outlook.
The characters are uncomplicated and sincere—the kind that make you smile while reading and avidly root for them. And I See the Light’s plot offered more twists and turns than I expected from a holiday tale. I devoured the story in one evening. (I actually read right through The Rachel Maddow Show—my absolute favorite—and that is saying something!) The story provided the necessary attitude adjustment to prepare me for a holiday season that will be unlike any of the others I have celebrated. Focusing on the importance of the simple satisfaction of doing right for its own sake, even when it isn’t easy.
Thanks, Arden, for the much-needed escape. I whole heartedly recommend I See the Light for much-needed attitude adjustment as we enter the holiday season!
What a sweet surprise from a new-to-me author! Right off the bat I knew that O’Keefe is a consummate storyteller. It was as if I was reading a fairy tale designed for adults, like me, who desperately need to step away from the many worries of politics and the pandemic into a world where there’s a brilliant light in the distance that signifies truth and hope. The optimism and purity in O’Keefe’s author’s voice shined through—the perfect remedy for my jaded 2020 outlook.
The characters are uncomplicated and sincere—the kind that make you smile while reading and avidly root for them. And I See the Light’s plot offered more twists and turns than I expected from a holiday tale. I devoured the story in one evening. (I actually read right through The Rachel Maddow Show—my absolute favorite—and that is saying something!) The story provided the necessary attitude adjustment to prepare me for a holiday season that will be unlike any of the others I have celebrated. Focusing on the importance of the simple satisfaction of doing right for its own sake, even when it isn’t easy.
Thanks, Arden, for the much-needed escape. I whole heartedly recommend I See the Light for much-needed attitude adjustment as we enter the holiday season!
December 12, 2020
I See the Light is a delightful and endearing Christmas novella that takes place on Christmas Eve. It follows a a man named Heath who, after feeling like an outsider his entire life, discovers a new and exciting world that he never knew existed.
The author then leads us on an unforgettable journey into the world of the Elves, where Heath meets an exceptionally handsome Elf named Shea, and it doesn’t take long before sparks fly between the two of them.
I loved how this story combines the bitterness of loneliness and exclusion with the sweet excitement of a newly found family, creating a heartfelt and memorable book.
Though our main character Heath is considered an oddball by most of the townspeople who know him — especially given that he has the ability to communicate with animals — he also has an enormous heart.
When his newfound Elf-friend Shea takes him to witness a heart-wrenching scene, my heart broke right along with Heath’s because of his extreme desire to help — but it being “against the rules” to do so.
But I will say though that the grim situation that we witness is somewhat lightened by realistic dialogue and genuineness of feeling from the characters. I loved how Heath has such a sad, sweet whimsy about him, which balances perfectly with Shea’s almost stubborn determination to win the boy over.
I enjoyed how unique this story’s setting is, and I found the tale to be lush and ethereal, making me feel like I’d been enraptured by some old fairy tale that, strangely, felt completely modern at the same time.
The evocative prose took me on a thrilling holiday adventure for the mind and the heart, and I really felt the magic inside of this story.
The writing evokes the feeling of a myth or fairytale and does so without creating too much distance from the characters, which is an incredibly hard line to walk.
So when the night comes to an end, Heath is asked to make a decision: either entirely embrace the magic of the elves and move forward with Shea or remain as a human and return to a world without Shea in it. A couple of other elements ensure that this decision is not an easy one.
At the end however,, I felt happy, hopeful, when I finished—everything you want to feel at the conclusion of a great story.
Readers seeking feel-good fantasy tales with an endearing holiday message will love journeying along with Heath from when he was a five-year-old boy to the twenty-three-year-old young man who makes a startling discovery in the woods.
This big-hearted book is a love letter to anyone who has felt uncomfortable in their own skin and wondered where exactly they belonged.
Note that this is a “sweet” Christmas story, so as such, there is no sex on-page or off.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
The author then leads us on an unforgettable journey into the world of the Elves, where Heath meets an exceptionally handsome Elf named Shea, and it doesn’t take long before sparks fly between the two of them.
I loved how this story combines the bitterness of loneliness and exclusion with the sweet excitement of a newly found family, creating a heartfelt and memorable book.
Though our main character Heath is considered an oddball by most of the townspeople who know him — especially given that he has the ability to communicate with animals — he also has an enormous heart.
When his newfound Elf-friend Shea takes him to witness a heart-wrenching scene, my heart broke right along with Heath’s because of his extreme desire to help — but it being “against the rules” to do so.
But I will say though that the grim situation that we witness is somewhat lightened by realistic dialogue and genuineness of feeling from the characters. I loved how Heath has such a sad, sweet whimsy about him, which balances perfectly with Shea’s almost stubborn determination to win the boy over.
I enjoyed how unique this story’s setting is, and I found the tale to be lush and ethereal, making me feel like I’d been enraptured by some old fairy tale that, strangely, felt completely modern at the same time.
The evocative prose took me on a thrilling holiday adventure for the mind and the heart, and I really felt the magic inside of this story.
The writing evokes the feeling of a myth or fairytale and does so without creating too much distance from the characters, which is an incredibly hard line to walk.
So when the night comes to an end, Heath is asked to make a decision: either entirely embrace the magic of the elves and move forward with Shea or remain as a human and return to a world without Shea in it. A couple of other elements ensure that this decision is not an easy one.
At the end however,, I felt happy, hopeful, when I finished—everything you want to feel at the conclusion of a great story.
Readers seeking feel-good fantasy tales with an endearing holiday message will love journeying along with Heath from when he was a five-year-old boy to the twenty-three-year-old young man who makes a startling discovery in the woods.
This big-hearted book is a love letter to anyone who has felt uncomfortable in their own skin and wondered where exactly they belonged.
Note that this is a “sweet” Christmas story, so as such, there is no sex on-page or off.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
April 16, 2021
Touching story
I See the Light is the fifth romantic MM story in Elves After Dark series.
MM, Fantasy Romance, Hurt-Comfort, Holidays-Christmas, Sweet and Cute. Clean romance. 2 POVs. Third person. Past tense. 124 pages. Published November 20th 2020.
This title's a feelings evoking Christmas story. On the outside it's light, on the inside not really altogether that much. It's actually much heavier than I expected and contains also sad aspects. I expected something light when going in. I was in the mood for that for a change but I got much more and something else. I'm still glad I happened to choose it. It's got touching themes and main characters as well as story. I liked the writing. The reason why I deducted points is because it wasn't really what it appeared to be. Then for the kind-of-HEA. It's nicer to get it officially locked nice and tight and not left at all open in any manner. Most of us want it. I know I do. Not that it left much doubt, but, but. I also found the system a bit weird - if very original which of course is very good. It did keep me awake and curiously reading to finish at one sitting. I didn't love it, but I liked it, and I think I'll have to give this author further chance when I get to it :)
Not a bad Christmas story all in all if you're in the mood for one, though I'd recommend this for moments when you want and can deal with something else besides total light fun and fluff. This one's a bit deeper than that.
I See the Light is the fifth romantic MM story in Elves After Dark series.
MM, Fantasy Romance, Hurt-Comfort, Holidays-Christmas, Sweet and Cute. Clean romance. 2 POVs. Third person. Past tense. 124 pages. Published November 20th 2020.
This title's a feelings evoking Christmas story. On the outside it's light, on the inside not really altogether that much. It's actually much heavier than I expected and contains also sad aspects. I expected something light when going in. I was in the mood for that for a change but I got much more and something else. I'm still glad I happened to choose it. It's got touching themes and main characters as well as story. I liked the writing. The reason why I deducted points is because it wasn't really what it appeared to be. Then for the kind-of-HEA. It's nicer to get it officially locked nice and tight and not left at all open in any manner. Most of us want it. I know I do. Not that it left much doubt, but, but. I also found the system a bit weird - if very original which of course is very good. It did keep me awake and curiously reading to finish at one sitting. I didn't love it, but I liked it, and I think I'll have to give this author further chance when I get to it :)
Not a bad Christmas story all in all if you're in the mood for one, though I'd recommend this for moments when you want and can deal with something else besides total light fun and fluff. This one's a bit deeper than that.
November 25, 2020
This story was such a heartwarming holiday story that features a twist on Santa and his elves. It was wonderfully written and the storyline was so engaging and really kept me interested throughout the whole book. I loved getting to know this world and the characters in it and I would love to see more from this world in the future.
This book features Heath, who didn't have the greatest time growing up. He was considered the town weirdo his whole life, his father and mother both abandoned him and he was raised by his grandma who was the only one besides his dog Leo, to show him any love or caring. I liked Heath and what he brought to the table. He is such a strong character to go through what he does every day and still have the ability to laugh and smile.
The other MC ain this book is Shea, an elf tasked with watching over Heath. He has developed feelings for him which is forbidden as elves and humans can't be together. Shea didn't have a good life a to become an elf he took it. Shea, he was cute and kind, and kinda a stickler for the rules.
I liked the way the story flowed and seeing the start of their relationship was so great. I loved reading this book and I would definitely recommend reading it!
This book features Heath, who didn't have the greatest time growing up. He was considered the town weirdo his whole life, his father and mother both abandoned him and he was raised by his grandma who was the only one besides his dog Leo, to show him any love or caring. I liked Heath and what he brought to the table. He is such a strong character to go through what he does every day and still have the ability to laugh and smile.
The other MC ain this book is Shea, an elf tasked with watching over Heath. He has developed feelings for him which is forbidden as elves and humans can't be together. Shea didn't have a good life a to become an elf he took it. Shea, he was cute and kind, and kinda a stickler for the rules.
I liked the way the story flowed and seeing the start of their relationship was so great. I loved reading this book and I would definitely recommend reading it!
March 1, 2021
An absolute mess.
I have so many questions and issues with this that I can't put together a coherent review. It's a mess. What is this plot?! Elves as an allegory for angels? Christmas as a cult/religion? There's way too much focus on all that to make a "romance" between Heath and Shea work.
Then there's Heath's sporadic use of "like" which is annoying and why is it even there when the author picks it up then drops it with no rhyme or reason.
Worst of all, though, is the use of Chad's story for a purpose that I do not get. On top of that, it's a very wrenching and real story that Heath dares to compare his own history to. Chad is a 10 year old homeless child living his whole life on the streets with the elderly man who found him in a dumpster where Chad's birth mother left him to die. Heath was unwanted by his biological mother and left by her when he was 5 but throughout his life he had his grandmother to house, clothe, love and care for him until her death after he reached adulthood. Those two stories do NOT compare. I very nearly quit the story when it decided to call their circumstances "so similar." I should have quit there. This wasn’t worth finishing.
I have so many questions and issues with this that I can't put together a coherent review. It's a mess. What is this plot?! Elves as an allegory for angels? Christmas as a cult/religion? There's way too much focus on all that to make a "romance" between Heath and Shea work.
Then there's Heath's sporadic use of "like" which is annoying and why is it even there when the author picks it up then drops it with no rhyme or reason.
Worst of all, though, is the use of Chad's story for a purpose that I do not get. On top of that, it's a very wrenching and real story that Heath dares to compare his own history to. Chad is a 10 year old homeless child living his whole life on the streets with the elderly man who found him in a dumpster where Chad's birth mother left him to die. Heath was unwanted by his biological mother and left by her when he was 5 but throughout his life he had his grandmother to house, clothe, love and care for him until her death after he reached adulthood. Those two stories do NOT compare. I very nearly quit the story when it decided to call their circumstances "so similar." I should have quit there. This wasn’t worth finishing.
November 28, 2020
This was a cute read. It was quite original in its writing and so too within its overall plot. It definitely considers another side to whole Christmas Elves aspect; I don’t think that’s something I ever thought to read before.
It did take me a bit to understand the dialogue shifts between Heath and the animals, but the idea of being able to communicate with animals is intriguing to me. Almost like Heath was the elf (eh part elf) version of Dr. Dolittle.
The guardian factor of the elves in this world was something I wish could have been explored a bit more. I also admired Heath for confronting the choice of having to essentially halve half of who he was.
Although, the story did end in a way that felt like that was more to be added. It had me wondering about Shea and his possible decision to reclaim his human half. I hoped for a more definitive ending in regards to that decision and for the blossoming relationship between Shea and Heath.
*ARC provided and I have given my honest review*
It did take me a bit to understand the dialogue shifts between Heath and the animals, but the idea of being able to communicate with animals is intriguing to me. Almost like Heath was the elf (eh part elf) version of Dr. Dolittle.
The guardian factor of the elves in this world was something I wish could have been explored a bit more. I also admired Heath for confronting the choice of having to essentially halve half of who he was.
Although, the story did end in a way that felt like that was more to be added. It had me wondering about Shea and his possible decision to reclaim his human half. I hoped for a more definitive ending in regards to that decision and for the blossoming relationship between Shea and Heath.
*ARC provided and I have given my honest review*
November 12, 2020
This was the sweetest holiday romance with heart and all the feels.
Heath is an oddball and a bit different from normal people, he can talk to his dog Leo and the cold doesn't affect him like it does normal people.
Only is grandma loves him despite his oddities.
One fateful night he goes to explore the enchanting light that keeps drawing him towards it.
There he discovers he is in fact half elf. He also crosses paths with a cute elf, Shea who shows him what elf magic is about.
When the night is over, will Heath go back to his normal life or will he embrace the magic within him?
This was a cute fluffy, magical Christmas novella that steal your heart. The characters are likeable and enjoyable to read. The setting of the story was unique and the writing style was light hearted and appealed to me.
Leo bless his heart was absolutely adorable!!
If you want to fall into a cute Christmas novella about finding one's self coupled with a little elf magic, you will love this.
Heath is an oddball and a bit different from normal people, he can talk to his dog Leo and the cold doesn't affect him like it does normal people.
Only is grandma loves him despite his oddities.
One fateful night he goes to explore the enchanting light that keeps drawing him towards it.
There he discovers he is in fact half elf. He also crosses paths with a cute elf, Shea who shows him what elf magic is about.
When the night is over, will Heath go back to his normal life or will he embrace the magic within him?
This was a cute fluffy, magical Christmas novella that steal your heart. The characters are likeable and enjoyable to read. The setting of the story was unique and the writing style was light hearted and appealed to me.
Leo bless his heart was absolutely adorable!!
If you want to fall into a cute Christmas novella about finding one's self coupled with a little elf magic, you will love this.
November 22, 2020
I See the Light is Book 5 in the Elves After Dark series and Arden O'Keefe is a new published author who writes really sweet books :) Each book can be read as a stand-alone and these are some amazing authors! I really enjoyed reading about Heath, Shea, and Leo in this heartwarmingly sweet book.
Heath is 5-years-old when he first sees the light but nobody else can see it. He lives with his cold mother who wishes he had never been born and his loving grandmother. He meets Shea, who is an elf, one day and discovers the truth about his background. Now Heath is no longer alone and has to make a decision about which path to follow. I loved the fact that Heath could hear all the animals around him and that his cowardly dog, Leo, kept trying to protect him from the mysterious lights in the woods. What a wonderful, enjoyable and sweet holiday story by a great new author! I can't wait to read more books by Arden O'Keefe.
Heath is 5-years-old when he first sees the light but nobody else can see it. He lives with his cold mother who wishes he had never been born and his loving grandmother. He meets Shea, who is an elf, one day and discovers the truth about his background. Now Heath is no longer alone and has to make a decision about which path to follow. I loved the fact that Heath could hear all the animals around him and that his cowardly dog, Leo, kept trying to protect him from the mysterious lights in the woods. What a wonderful, enjoyable and sweet holiday story by a great new author! I can't wait to read more books by Arden O'Keefe.
December 1, 2020
First, let me say I have a good friend who does the tank top and shorts thing year round and is an absolute sweetheart so I was immediately predisposed to like this story. I didn't realize how much I was going to love it, though. Heath is such a wonderful character, sweet, caring and just a bit off center. This is a character Arden O'Keefe is an expert at writing. The discovery of why Heath never fit in and his relationship with Shea has all the Christmas Eve magic one could wish for. Their journey to spread happiness will make you feel a warm glow all over. I watch Christmas Eve on Sesame Street every Christmas Eve just because it makes me smile and feel that all is right with the world for just a little while - this book made me feel the same way and will now be a regular part of my Christmas re-reads. I also must say that as an older reader, I love it when there are grandmothers/older women who "get" the main characters and we have a great one here.
November 12, 2020
*´¨✫)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶...all that was left behind was undeniable attraction.
Heath lived a very solitary life. Even as a child you could sense the loneliness in him despite his grandmas love. Who was Heath, and what was the mystery that surrounded him? What about the light, and why was he so drawn to it? And how was it possible for Heath to understand and speak to the animals? Also, who was the man in the pointy hat?
So many questions, and so many answers to explore.
First off, what a journey. I am not one for fantasy, but after reading this book, I realise that there was a world of imagination to rediscover...and so many books to make up this series anthology. Enter Heath's world and discover his strengths that made him the person he became. Along the way, questions are answered, but Heath has one major decision to make. Is it enough to give up his humanity for one person? Was Shae worth it?
One click and see how fate really works. Await more from this duo.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
¸.•´¸.•*´¨)✯ ¸.•*¨)
✮ (¸.•´✶...all that was left behind was undeniable attraction.
Heath lived a very solitary life. Even as a child you could sense the loneliness in him despite his grandmas love. Who was Heath, and what was the mystery that surrounded him? What about the light, and why was he so drawn to it? And how was it possible for Heath to understand and speak to the animals? Also, who was the man in the pointy hat?
So many questions, and so many answers to explore.
First off, what a journey. I am not one for fantasy, but after reading this book, I realise that there was a world of imagination to rediscover...and so many books to make up this series anthology. Enter Heath's world and discover his strengths that made him the person he became. Along the way, questions are answered, but Heath has one major decision to make. Is it enough to give up his humanity for one person? Was Shae worth it?
One click and see how fate really works. Await more from this duo.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
November 18, 2020
Reading this book gave me a real sense of the magic of Christmas, the whole story just embodied everything that Christmas stands for. Heath only had his grandma to take care of him after his mother callously left him due to his specialness. Shea is an elf who watched over him and tried to help in his own way but was restricted in what he could do. Heath being a half elf is shown the joy and wonders of the most magical time of year and has to make a decision and pick a side to stand on, with a budding relationship with Shea on the cards just what will Heath decide. The addition of the cute little dog Leo made me happy, he was a cheeky little scamp and offered some levity to the story to offset the serious nature of Heath's adventure. A sweet and lighthearted read that brings the magic of Christmas alive.
November 20, 2020
Curiosity is what drew me to this book. Being the first title that I have picked up from Arden. Sometimes we all feel like we don’t belong in this world. Heath knows that the best from being tormented all his life that he was different. He also possesses something different he can communicate with animals. He doesn’t share that side with anyone. He knows there is a light on Christmas Eve that he is always drawn to, even at a young age. But what happens when he follows his gut and follows that light? He is met by Shea who is an elf. They help each other understand the magic of the season and the choices they make. This is a different story of love and a slow burn. One that makes me want to read more from this series.
November 21, 2020
Magic of Christmas
Heath knew he had never truly fit in with the rest of the folks in his town but he never knew why. Imagine his surprise when he decides to find the light in the woods that appears every year on the night before Christmas. What he finds is elves and magic. He also has to make a choice. This was a cute little Christmas story. Heath challenges the rules the elves expect him to follow and questions what is really right or wrong. Does someone really have to choose? Shea is an elf that never questioned it, but Heath challenges him in ways he never expected. I enjoyed this story and would honestly like to see more about these characters.
Heath knew he had never truly fit in with the rest of the folks in his town but he never knew why. Imagine his surprise when he decides to find the light in the woods that appears every year on the night before Christmas. What he finds is elves and magic. He also has to make a choice. This was a cute little Christmas story. Heath challenges the rules the elves expect him to follow and questions what is really right or wrong. Does someone really have to choose? Shea is an elf that never questioned it, but Heath challenges him in ways he never expected. I enjoyed this story and would honestly like to see more about these characters.
November 25, 2020
This was an excellent story with a totally different spin on Santa and his elves. A white light in the forest and a Heath, a sad and unusual boy leads into a story that is different and a little dark. Sadness permeates the story as Heath's father abandons him and his mother and then his mother leaves him. He is just too weird for her and she leaves him to his grandma when he is five. This story is emotionally heavy for a Christmas read, but we all know that life is not always light and this author shows us the reality that many people have to live through before they get their HEA. Good story.
December 1, 2020
Charming story of finding your place in the world. I was amazed at the positive attitude that Heath had in spite of the bullying and lack of care from anyone but his grandmother. He found his niche in the vet's office and he found value in what he did. Shea offers a whole new way of life but Heath is willing to challenge the status quo and find more that is offered. This is such a wonderful story of perspective and redefining yourself.
This is book five of the Elves After Dark series and can be read as a stand-alone.
I was gifted this book from Gay Romance Reviews and i freely give my honest opinion and review
This is book five of the Elves After Dark series and can be read as a stand-alone.
I was gifted this book from Gay Romance Reviews and i freely give my honest opinion and review
December 2, 2020
Weirdo meets his elf family
Heath has been rejected by humans all his life for being different or weird. He's been bullied by peers and even his own mother ditched him. Only his grandmother stood by him and then she passes away.
Heath sees a light in the woods every year at Christmas and this year he plans on finding the source.
This is a super cute story. Sad because of how Heaths life has been so far. But then he meets Shea and things become more clear. There is a sweet innocent friendship/romance between Heath and Shea.
It is a fluffy, young adult read thats perfect for the season.
Heath has been rejected by humans all his life for being different or weird. He's been bullied by peers and even his own mother ditched him. Only his grandmother stood by him and then she passes away.
Heath sees a light in the woods every year at Christmas and this year he plans on finding the source.
This is a super cute story. Sad because of how Heaths life has been so far. But then he meets Shea and things become more clear. There is a sweet innocent friendship/romance between Heath and Shea.
It is a fluffy, young adult read thats perfect for the season.
May 8, 2021
**2.5 Stars
Another one in this series that started out great then just fizzled out. I really loved Heath and my heart broke for him but his relationship with Shea was a bit weird. Another relationship that bordered on creepy rather than romantic.
I didn't hate this story but I was hoping for more.
TAGS
-- Holiday/Christmas -- fantasy -- elf/human pairing -- quick easy read -- some sweet moments -- loved Heath -- loved Leo (the dog) -- couldn't get a handle on Shea -- Santa kind of creeped me out (lol) -- loved the concept -- had great promise -- overall, missed the mark
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