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He Sees You When You're Sleeping
We met when you were just a child, but you’re a man now and need my protection.
With Christmas Eve approaching, I’ll watch over you.
Whether you know it or not.
Because no one is allowed to hurt you.
No one but me.
At 20K words, He Sees You When You’re Sleeping is a twisted take on Santa, featuring M/M romance, horror, and the holiday season.
With Christmas Eve approaching, I’ll watch over you.
Whether you know it or not.
Because no one is allowed to hurt you.
No one but me.
At 20K words, He Sees You When You’re Sleeping is a twisted take on Santa, featuring M/M romance, horror, and the holiday season.
100 pages, ebook
First published December 10, 2020
41 people are currently reading
305 people want to read
About the author
Sara Dobie Bauer
56 books367 followersBestselling romance author.
Green witch.
Feminist. Pro-choice. Anti-censorship.
Timothee Chalamet freak.
Horror movie aficionado.
Vampire mermaid in a past life.
Sara Dobie Bauer somehow survived her party-hard college years at Ohio University to earn a creative writing degree. She lives with her precious Pit Bull in Northeast Ohio, although she’d really like to live in a Tim Burton film.
Green witch.
Feminist. Pro-choice. Anti-censorship.
Timothee Chalamet freak.
Horror movie aficionado.
Vampire mermaid in a past life.
Sara Dobie Bauer somehow survived her party-hard college years at Ohio University to earn a creative writing degree. She lives with her precious Pit Bull in Northeast Ohio, although she’d really like to live in a Tim Burton film.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
January 1, 2022
3.5 Stars
A bit dark and twisty, this is no Santa Clause we’ve probably ever seen before...
For many many years, Kris has been bringing holiday cheer to those kids who believe. One Christmas Eve, battered boy Jake catches his eye, forever branding Jake on Kris’s brain. As years pass by, Jake inadvertently calls for Kris’s help sparking an obsession that can't be stopped.
This does border on creepy and does skirt the edge of non/dub con. However, Jake brings about a change in Kris’s reality and plight which reveals an interesting origin story and a very redeeming uplifting happily ever after. If you want something different from the usual sugary sweet offerings but still ultimately delivers holiday cheer, check this out (it’s on KU too)!
A bit dark and twisty, this is no Santa Clause we’ve probably ever seen before...
For many many years, Kris has been bringing holiday cheer to those kids who believe. One Christmas Eve, battered boy Jake catches his eye, forever branding Jake on Kris’s brain. As years pass by, Jake inadvertently calls for Kris’s help sparking an obsession that can't be stopped.
This does border on creepy and does skirt the edge of non/dub con. However, Jake brings about a change in Kris’s reality and plight which reveals an interesting origin story and a very redeeming uplifting happily ever after. If you want something different from the usual sugary sweet offerings but still ultimately delivers holiday cheer, check this out (it’s on KU too)!
January 31, 2021
3.5 Stars
This story is not like your common read for Holidays, with a Christmas theme and it’s not a sweet, fluffy read. If it wasn’t for the lack of chemistry my rating would have been higher. Told in single POV, 3rd person, it’s a standalone novella. Overall, it could have been better, hope you enjoy it as well!
This story is not like your common read for Holidays, with a Christmas theme and it’s not a sweet, fluffy read. If it wasn’t for the lack of chemistry my rating would have been higher. Told in single POV, 3rd person, it’s a standalone novella. Overall, it could have been better, hope you enjoy it as well!
December 27, 2020
Not a review, just TW.
May 15, 2021
This is going to be spoiler-free and short. If you're going to give this a go, I would suggest not reading any detailed reviews and letting the story unfold unless you need some specific trigger warnings .
Wow! This was an interesting and intriguing twist on Santa Claus and another holiday classic that I won't get into for fear of spoiling it. Dark and violent, but with heart and emotion, I fell for both the main characters. There is love and devotion here, and I wasn't sure how it would end, but I was very pleasantly surprised.
December 15, 2020
Sara Dobie Bauer has a particular brand of dark romance, and if you’re willing to take the plunge, I promise you're going to be wowed by He Sees You When You're Sleeping. It’s not the first time this talented wordsmith has blown me away, and I’m sure it won’t be the last!
I love the concept of Santa Claus, and I never get tired of different interpretations of the whole supernatural element of the Christmas Spirit. Who gets to fill the role of Santa? How do all those gifts get delivered, and what is Santa’s daily life like?
In Sara Dobie Bauer’s story, fulfilling the role of Father Christmas is penance. Kris’ sins (heinous deeds he can no longer remember) have sentenced him to an eternity of visiting each child who believes in Santa on Christmas Eve. The lights glowing from the homes of the believers are the beacons which lead him, and the landscape gets darker every year.
A light just barely flickering catches Kris' attention, and he stops in to see the child whose faith is so close to disappearing. A long-time victim of abuse, there's something special about ten-year-old Jack, and Kris and he make an unusual connection.
Before meeting Jack again as an adult, Kris had no way of controlling his consciousness, and no recollection of his past life as a man. Through their interactions, Kris gradually starts to sense his own emotions and physical feelings, and begins having flashes of memories.
The rub is that Kris’ memories are horrible ones, where his actions are the catalyst for terrible death and destruction. Facing the truth, and overwhelmed by what Jack makes him feel, sends Kris off the deep end. Unrepentant and self-absorbed, Kris’ selfishness knows no bounds and he's stuck till he learns his lesson.
It’s a slow burn love story, but it’s a Sara Dobie Bauer romance so there’s guaranteed to be some seriously scorching erotica. Emotional and intimate, just knowing both of these lonely men find a few moments of solace and pleasure, is a welcome bonus. Plus, the clever, creative, and delightfully twisted ending is simply spectacular!
The overall feeling throughout the story is dark but hope-full, and Sara Dobie Bauer weaves in some timeless messages about second chances and putting others’ needs above our own. He Sees You When You’re Sleeping is a beautifully written and poignant holiday story which will stay with me for a long, long time.
I love the concept of Santa Claus, and I never get tired of different interpretations of the whole supernatural element of the Christmas Spirit. Who gets to fill the role of Santa? How do all those gifts get delivered, and what is Santa’s daily life like?
In Sara Dobie Bauer’s story, fulfilling the role of Father Christmas is penance. Kris’ sins (heinous deeds he can no longer remember) have sentenced him to an eternity of visiting each child who believes in Santa on Christmas Eve. The lights glowing from the homes of the believers are the beacons which lead him, and the landscape gets darker every year.
A light just barely flickering catches Kris' attention, and he stops in to see the child whose faith is so close to disappearing. A long-time victim of abuse, there's something special about ten-year-old Jack, and Kris and he make an unusual connection.
Before meeting Jack again as an adult, Kris had no way of controlling his consciousness, and no recollection of his past life as a man. Through their interactions, Kris gradually starts to sense his own emotions and physical feelings, and begins having flashes of memories.
The rub is that Kris’ memories are horrible ones, where his actions are the catalyst for terrible death and destruction. Facing the truth, and overwhelmed by what Jack makes him feel, sends Kris off the deep end. Unrepentant and self-absorbed, Kris’ selfishness knows no bounds and he's stuck till he learns his lesson.
It’s a slow burn love story, but it’s a Sara Dobie Bauer romance so there’s guaranteed to be some seriously scorching erotica. Emotional and intimate, just knowing both of these lonely men find a few moments of solace and pleasure, is a welcome bonus. Plus, the clever, creative, and delightfully twisted ending is simply spectacular!
The overall feeling throughout the story is dark but hope-full, and Sara Dobie Bauer weaves in some timeless messages about second chances and putting others’ needs above our own. He Sees You When You’re Sleeping is a beautifully written and poignant holiday story which will stay with me for a long, long time.
December 9, 2020
I’m not sure how to review this story, when I finished it I was in tears and very emotional.
Something inside me was touched by it.
It’s impossible to review the content without spoiling so I’ll try to swing around the plot.
The title gives a glimpse of what the story is about.
There is a kind of a Santa named Kris who protects young children, ten-year-old foster child Jack is one of them. Fifteen years later they meet again. Kris is still protective.
I think this narrative was like a painting, you stand for it and look at it, everyone sees something different in it, everyone feels something different while watching.
What I saw and felt was about the opposites in life, the given chances, the taken opportunities to experience happiness, the cruelty of life, the search for love. There is longing and yearning, Looking for something and finally finding it in front of you. It’s about lost memories and remembering. There is justice in form of violence. There is a need to protect. There is knowledge and ignorance.
It was a rollercoaster, And at last... at last, there is calmness, peace, and a chance to be with the one you’d give your life for.
On the one hand, it was a cruel dark story, on the other absolutely not.
Stunningly written narrative, and an absolutely breathtaking plot!!
Something inside me was touched by it.
It’s impossible to review the content without spoiling so I’ll try to swing around the plot.
The title gives a glimpse of what the story is about.
There is a kind of a Santa named Kris who protects young children, ten-year-old foster child Jack is one of them. Fifteen years later they meet again. Kris is still protective.
I think this narrative was like a painting, you stand for it and look at it, everyone sees something different in it, everyone feels something different while watching.
What I saw and felt was about the opposites in life, the given chances, the taken opportunities to experience happiness, the cruelty of life, the search for love. There is longing and yearning, Looking for something and finally finding it in front of you. It’s about lost memories and remembering. There is justice in form of violence. There is a need to protect. There is knowledge and ignorance.
It was a rollercoaster, And at last... at last, there is calmness, peace, and a chance to be with the one you’d give your life for.
On the one hand, it was a cruel dark story, on the other absolutely not.
Stunningly written narrative, and an absolutely breathtaking plot!!
April 4, 2021
✽ 4.5 STARS ✽
I grabbed this book because I couldn't sleep and it was the first one on the top of my e-reader. I wasn't aware it was also paranormal. I avoided paranormal like a plague for years now. I was just not interested or I just thought I wasn't, I really don't know. Sara Dobie Bauer just blown my mind with this short MM romantic paranormal novella.
I grabbed this book because I couldn't sleep and it was the first one on the top of my e-reader. I wasn't aware it was also paranormal. I avoided paranormal like a plague for years now. I was just not interested or I just thought I wasn't, I really don't know. Sara Dobie Bauer just blown my mind with this short MM romantic paranormal novella.
November 25, 2020
PHEW...… Sara Dobie Bauer KNOCKED IT OUT OF THE PARK WITH THIS ONE.
Damn! I knew this book was dark, but I truly didn't expect it to go the way it did.
I'm going to keep this review #spoilerfree , but I will not endeavor to curb my gushing. Ok? Ok!
I received an early ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What I LOVED!... #Sigh
1. The Characters:
So.... you got Kris, who is Santa... or what we perceive as Santa aka Father Christmas. But where as we think of the jolly ho-ho-ho, big belly ruddy cheeks kind of Santa, what Ms. Bauer introduces is his evil, dark twin. Kris is being punished, his days and years are endless and follow a pattern that revolves around Christmas Eve. But why? He doesn't know, nor do we know until later. #BigReveal
And then you get Jack. We meet him as a little boy who has seen more than his fair share of life...
Fast forward to Jack as an adult who has made something of himself, who is genuinely good and is trying to make a difference in the world. #StrongerThanYesterday
2. The Plot:
So many twist and turns, so many things that are thrown at you form every which way, yet all of them come together to produce the ultimate mindfuck. This novella is DARK with capital D. Kris is not jolly, he isn't nice. He may be the naughtiest of all. And through it all, he tugs on your heartstrings. You can help but root for him, feel sad for him and want him to get away from that roller-coaster of a life. Jack plays the biggest part, if not the only part, and together they will unchain him. #SetMeFree
3. The Relationship:
It's unhealthy, obsessive, disturbed and so much more. This won't be pretty and and it is far from romantic, even though some moments are sweet. Despite everything.... it will hit you #StraightInTheFeels
4. The Ending...
You won't see it coming. Whatever you think will happen, it won't. Remember those twists and turns, well yeah... Ms. Sara will definitely play with your emotions. #Blindsided
Honorable Mentions:
The sex scene. #HolyHotnessBatman
What I didn't like?
It was too short and my greedy eyes wanted more words and more feelings and more everything. Ok? Ok!
Damn! I knew this book was dark, but I truly didn't expect it to go the way it did.
I'm going to keep this review #spoilerfree , but I will not endeavor to curb my gushing. Ok? Ok!
I received an early ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
What I LOVED!... #Sigh
1. The Characters:
So.... you got Kris, who is Santa... or what we perceive as Santa aka Father Christmas. But where as we think of the jolly ho-ho-ho, big belly ruddy cheeks kind of Santa, what Ms. Bauer introduces is his evil, dark twin. Kris is being punished, his days and years are endless and follow a pattern that revolves around Christmas Eve. But why? He doesn't know, nor do we know until later. #BigReveal
And then you get Jack. We meet him as a little boy who has seen more than his fair share of life...
Fast forward to Jack as an adult who has made something of himself, who is genuinely good and is trying to make a difference in the world. #StrongerThanYesterday
2. The Plot:
So many twist and turns, so many things that are thrown at you form every which way, yet all of them come together to produce the ultimate mindfuck. This novella is DARK with capital D. Kris is not jolly, he isn't nice. He may be the naughtiest of all. And through it all, he tugs on your heartstrings. You can help but root for him, feel sad for him and want him to get away from that roller-coaster of a life. Jack plays the biggest part, if not the only part, and together they will unchain him. #SetMeFree
3. The Relationship:
It's unhealthy, obsessive, disturbed and so much more. This won't be pretty and and it is far from romantic, even though some moments are sweet. Despite everything.... it will hit you #StraightInTheFeels
4. The Ending...
You won't see it coming. Whatever you think will happen, it won't. Remember those twists and turns, well yeah... Ms. Sara will definitely play with your emotions. #Blindsided
Honorable Mentions:
The sex scene. #HolyHotnessBatman
What I didn't like?
It was too short and my greedy eyes wanted more words and more feelings and more everything. Ok? Ok!
December 20, 2020
Oh my god!
Sara Dobie Bauer version of A Christmas Carol.
I'm totally enchanted by this story.
If only it was longer, I could read reams.
Sara Dobie Bauer version of A Christmas Carol.
I'm totally enchanted by this story.
If only it was longer, I could read reams.
December 29, 2020
Overall book rating: 3.8
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Well I took the plunge and may I say, this sure is something else.
Not for the faint of heart please it isn't your typical Christmas story.
Well it really isn't your typical anything. It's different.
Did I enjoy it? Well, yes.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Well I took the plunge and may I say, this sure is something else.
Not for the faint of heart please it isn't your typical Christmas story.
Well it really isn't your typical anything. It's different.
Did I enjoy it? Well, yes.
September 17, 2021
For a novella it packed a punch. I love this twisted take on Santa and intertwined is a love story. It’s so short and free on KU. Download only if you like a dark / gray Christmas read with a sprinkling of light and magic.
December 24, 2022
This was a unique story! I didn't really remember what the description said, and as the story went on, things kept going in ways I wasn't expecting. I don't really wanna spoil anything, so I'll just say it's got a little bit of Christmas, a little bit of potential romance, a little bit of sexy time, a little bit of darkness, and a little bit of redemption. It's a quick read, and I enjoyed it.
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes m/m potential romance, Christmas stories, a bit of darkness but also light, and stories that might surprise you.
More Reviews @ Metaphors and Moonlight
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2022 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes m/m potential romance, Christmas stories, a bit of darkness but also light, and stories that might surprise you.
More Reviews @ Metaphors and Moonlight
December 5, 2021
Meh. I’m disappointed. But I guess I deserved that. I don’t know what I’d expected out of a short about a murderous stalker Santa…
This was boring, weird and cheesy — in that exact order. Kris, our “Father Christmas,” was a spectacularly dull narrator. The first pages barely managed to keep my attention. Unfortunately, his POV is the only one here.
Things got weird when Kris became somewhat fixated on Jack — I say ‘somewhat,’ because he was pretty boring for a stalker, he just watched his stalkee with no real emotions behind it — and right off the bat, started breaking limbs and killing the baddies in Jack’s vicinity, no questions asked. He was like Terminator, only more efficient because he could teleport using some sort of magical subspace.
The weird continued when Jack decided it would be a good idea to have sex with the big and slightly violent stranger that kept randomly appearing in his apartment. There was almost zero chemistry, the sexy bits were not, and I simply wanted to skip them.
Oh, I almost forgot! There was one moderately interesting part, right before the cheesy one, when the stalker vibes briefly intensified as our Santa decided he’d like to keep Jack forever and ever in the aforementioned magical subspace, Gollum-style. Surprisingly, Jack reacted like a normal person: he did not take that shit well. Sadly, this part was very short.
The cheesy part was probably supposed to be sweet and fluffy, I think? And maybe it was, but by that time I was already so fed up with this seemingly short story that it was just too much. Suffice to say that there’s a candy-cane-sweet HEA, so if that’s your thing… go right ahead.
This was boring, weird and cheesy — in that exact order. Kris, our “Father Christmas,” was a spectacularly dull narrator. The first pages barely managed to keep my attention. Unfortunately, his POV is the only one here.
Things got weird when Kris became somewhat fixated on Jack — I say ‘somewhat,’ because he was pretty boring for a stalker, he just watched his stalkee with no real emotions behind it — and right off the bat, started breaking limbs and killing the baddies in Jack’s vicinity, no questions asked. He was like Terminator, only more efficient because he could teleport using some sort of magical subspace.
The weird continued when Jack decided it would be a good idea to have sex with the big and slightly violent stranger that kept randomly appearing in his apartment. There was almost zero chemistry, the sexy bits were not, and I simply wanted to skip them.
Oh, I almost forgot! There was one moderately interesting part, right before the cheesy one, when the stalker vibes briefly intensified as our Santa decided he’d like to keep Jack forever and ever in the aforementioned magical subspace, Gollum-style. Surprisingly, Jack reacted like a normal person: he did not take that shit well. Sadly, this part was very short.
The cheesy part was probably supposed to be sweet and fluffy, I think? And maybe it was, but by that time I was already so fed up with this seemingly short story that it was just too much. Suffice to say that there’s a candy-cane-sweet HEA, so if that’s your thing… go right ahead.
December 9, 2020
This is one of the most unique holiday stories I’ve ever read; just be advised that it’s a darker take on the Father Christmas/Santa Claus myth. That said, I was so totally absorbed in this story and definitely wasn’t expecting the plot twist near the end. Even with this being on the darker side, it still brought out my tears.
When the story begins, Kris really doesn’t know anything other than what he must do every Christmas Eve. He seems unemotional and mostly apathetic, though understanding of his role as a protector of children…until Jack enters the picture and changes everything. That’s when the really interesting events begin.
The prevailing atmosphere is gloom, but within that there is still hope—due in large part to Jack. He is a beacon of it for those less fortunate and hurting, but also for Kris. Expect an exceptionally non-traditional take on Father Christmas, along with redemption, self-realization, and eventually atonement. There is so much more I want to say about this story and the characters of Kris and Jack, but I think anything else I want to say might give away too much.
What I can say is that this is the most intriguing book I’ve read this year. 5 stars and a Top Recommendation from me for He Sees You When You’re Sleeping. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language, sexual content, violence, and a scene of self-harm/suicide attempt. Told ya it’s a darker one…but it’s a GOOD one. I doubt you’ll look at Santa Claus the same ever again.
When the story begins, Kris really doesn’t know anything other than what he must do every Christmas Eve. He seems unemotional and mostly apathetic, though understanding of his role as a protector of children…until Jack enters the picture and changes everything. That’s when the really interesting events begin.
The prevailing atmosphere is gloom, but within that there is still hope—due in large part to Jack. He is a beacon of it for those less fortunate and hurting, but also for Kris. Expect an exceptionally non-traditional take on Father Christmas, along with redemption, self-realization, and eventually atonement. There is so much more I want to say about this story and the characters of Kris and Jack, but I think anything else I want to say might give away too much.
What I can say is that this is the most intriguing book I’ve read this year. 5 stars and a Top Recommendation from me for He Sees You When You’re Sleeping. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language, sexual content, violence, and a scene of self-harm/suicide attempt. Told ya it’s a darker one…but it’s a GOOD one. I doubt you’ll look at Santa Claus the same ever again.
December 10, 2020
4,5☆
I started reading this book with big expectations, because the blurb says all the yummy things about it; santa horror romance! And written by Sara Dobie Bauer? Count me in!
So when I got the feeling that I *know* this story, I was confused. I felt that I already read this story and know how will it end. So I started thinking... and searching in my reading - and found it! This story was released earlier in the Tainted Tales Anthology. And when I read that Anthology in March, this story was the one I loved the most! So now, I feel robbed. I wanted to read something new, but I already read this...
I loved the story. It was dark and twisted. Heartbreaking and warm. A Christmas miracle with magic.
A love story which is cute at the beginning and unhealthy later, but at the end, it's the best you can dream about.
If I had known that it's not a new story, I'd be happier. But really, when I first read it, it was everything. Now... now it was nothing new. But still an awesome dark story.
I started reading this book with big expectations, because the blurb says all the yummy things about it; santa horror romance! And written by Sara Dobie Bauer? Count me in!
So when I got the feeling that I *know* this story, I was confused. I felt that I already read this story and know how will it end. So I started thinking... and searching in my reading - and found it! This story was released earlier in the Tainted Tales Anthology. And when I read that Anthology in March, this story was the one I loved the most! So now, I feel robbed. I wanted to read something new, but I already read this...
I loved the story. It was dark and twisted. Heartbreaking and warm. A Christmas miracle with magic.
A love story which is cute at the beginning and unhealthy later, but at the end, it's the best you can dream about.
If I had known that it's not a new story, I'd be happier. But really, when I first read it, it was everything. Now... now it was nothing new. But still an awesome dark story.
December 3, 2020
5 shining stars!!!
Raw, dark, gory, gritty, but also very sensible and poetic - this is how I”d describe this non-traditional Christmas novella. I can”t compare it with anything I”ve read before, and I”m sure I”ll never read anything like it.
I must say I was deeply impressed by the Dickensian atmosphere, with bleak houses, flickering lights, striking images of poverty and destitution that cut right through my soul. Damn, Ms Sara is a genial painter, using words instead of brushes and paint.
And in the middle of all the hopelessness, there is Kris, who protects the children who desperately need it, and who believe in Christmas and its miracles. He meets Jack when the kid is ten, and their relationship develops over time into something obsessive, addictive, scary, heartbreaking, but beautiful in its own way.
He Sees You When You”re Sleeping is one of those books that stays with you long after you finished reading, and I can”t recommend it enough. Chapeau bas, Ms Sara!
Raw, dark, gory, gritty, but also very sensible and poetic - this is how I”d describe this non-traditional Christmas novella. I can”t compare it with anything I”ve read before, and I”m sure I”ll never read anything like it.
I must say I was deeply impressed by the Dickensian atmosphere, with bleak houses, flickering lights, striking images of poverty and destitution that cut right through my soul. Damn, Ms Sara is a genial painter, using words instead of brushes and paint.
And in the middle of all the hopelessness, there is Kris, who protects the children who desperately need it, and who believe in Christmas and its miracles. He meets Jack when the kid is ten, and their relationship develops over time into something obsessive, addictive, scary, heartbreaking, but beautiful in its own way.
He Sees You When You”re Sleeping is one of those books that stays with you long after you finished reading, and I can”t recommend it enough. Chapeau bas, Ms Sara!
November 5, 2020
This twisted tale that makes Bad Santa look like a frat boy.
Sara Dobie Bauer's bio mentions Tim Burton, and this story reads like Tim re-wrote A Christmas Carol. It's deliciously creepy, edging right up to uncomfortable, but it has a surprisingly not-creepy ending. If you like romance that's a bit out of the ordinary, give this story a try!
Excellent read!
Sara Dobie Bauer's bio mentions Tim Burton, and this story reads like Tim re-wrote A Christmas Carol. It's deliciously creepy, edging right up to uncomfortable, but it has a surprisingly not-creepy ending. If you like romance that's a bit out of the ordinary, give this story a try!
Excellent read!
June 8, 2021
Kinda short. And I don't think I've seen a purely selfish protagonist in any of the books I've read. Until this one. Really refreshing not to see the same old 'good' protagonists always. This is one of the most different books I've ever read. Not my most favorite, because it had time travel and I'm not a big fan of it.
November 12, 2023
4.5⭐️ Very intriguing and clever take on A Christmas Carol. While quite dark at times, I loved the whimsical elements and the satisfying twist at the end. A great, short holiday read if you’re looking for something different from the sugary sweet holiday romances, enjoy thrillers, but still want a happy ending.
Read
December 23, 2021Don't read reviews for this.
Go in blind.
It's worth it.
Damn. This was good.
Go in blind.
It's worth it.
Damn. This was good.
February 24, 2021
3.5
A nice dark christmas story
A nice dark christmas story
December 17, 2020
This was semi dark holiday retelling, which ended up being really sweet with a little bit of sad.
I’ll be honest, I kinda love stalker-to-lover books... so I hardly read the blurb and jumped right in. I was a little disappointed with the stalker aspect, but it did end up being a great little Christmas read.
I’ll be honest, I kinda love stalker-to-lover books... so I hardly read the blurb and jumped right in. I was a little disappointed with the stalker aspect, but it did end up being a great little Christmas read.
November 4, 2020
"I ****ing love Christmas." -Jack from "He Sees You When He's Sleeping" by Sara Dobie Bauer
Yeah, well, I ****ing love Sara Dobie Bauer.
This story blew me away. I love, love, love new takes on the Santa mythology and this one felt familiar yet original all at once, which is an accomplishment. I most definitely expected it to wind up somewhere other than where it did, but I love where it ended up. Because, let's face it, all Christmas stories should end up there. The magical, mystical place where we don't age and can't be hurt--just like our memories that serve as the foundation for love of the holidays.
Or is it????
I've been reading Sara's stuff for years and her writing just continues to improve. The imagery in this one is just kisses finger tips perfection.
Yeah, well, I ****ing love Sara Dobie Bauer.
This story blew me away. I love, love, love new takes on the Santa mythology and this one felt familiar yet original all at once, which is an accomplishment. I most definitely expected it to wind up somewhere other than where it did, but I love where it ended up. Because, let's face it, all Christmas stories should end up there. The magical, mystical place where we don't age and can't be hurt--just like our memories that serve as the foundation for love of the holidays.
Or is it????
I've been reading Sara's stuff for years and her writing just continues to improve. The imagery in this one is just kisses finger tips perfection.
September 7, 2022
Real damn enjoyable!
Awesome narration.
US Audible Audiobook Link
Awesome narration.
US Audible Audiobook Link
December 8, 2020
He Sees You When You’re Sleeping
MMy Thoughts and Confessions:
Sara Dobie Bauer must have been visited by the Ghosts of “Christmas Hitchcock past” and “Twilight Zone future” when she decided to write this twisted tale of Nick, who was neither Saint nor Santa.
While it was Nick’s job to visit the children who still believed in him on Christmas Eve, each year, it was not his job to function as a mercenary for one young boy, with pine green eyes, and cigarette burns on his back, but he did…and was. Time and again, as Young Jack grew from boy to man, Nick would show up when Jack’s life was being threatened.
Then the day came when Nick believed Jack to be a threat to himself. That is when things turned from awkward and dark to totally insane and mindfuck worthy! AND I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT!
Bauer is one of my favorite authors because she skates so close to the edge and tips you over the side every so often, so you can feel the heat and smell the sulfur from the fires of hell as the flames reach up to grab you. Reminders of how dark humanity is and at other times how much we the reader love to escape and indulge in a little slice of that mindfuckery pie for ourselves. MMMMMM…. Best pie ever!
Sharonica’s Stars: 5.00 Christmas-is-NOT-just-for-children-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to read and review.
📚🎄📚
MMy Thoughts and Confessions:
Sara Dobie Bauer must have been visited by the Ghosts of “Christmas Hitchcock past” and “Twilight Zone future” when she decided to write this twisted tale of Nick, who was neither Saint nor Santa.
While it was Nick’s job to visit the children who still believed in him on Christmas Eve, each year, it was not his job to function as a mercenary for one young boy, with pine green eyes, and cigarette burns on his back, but he did…and was. Time and again, as Young Jack grew from boy to man, Nick would show up when Jack’s life was being threatened.
Then the day came when Nick believed Jack to be a threat to himself. That is when things turned from awkward and dark to totally insane and mindfuck worthy! AND I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT!
Bauer is one of my favorite authors because she skates so close to the edge and tips you over the side every so often, so you can feel the heat and smell the sulfur from the fires of hell as the flames reach up to grab you. Reminders of how dark humanity is and at other times how much we the reader love to escape and indulge in a little slice of that mindfuckery pie for ourselves. MMMMMM…. Best pie ever!
Sharonica’s Stars: 5.00 Christmas-is-NOT-just-for-children-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to read and review.
📚🎄📚
December 9, 2020
No spoilers!!
Don't let anyone spoil this for you!!!!
I'm serious!
The twists
The "OMG" moments
Its a Happily ever after (I guess that depends on which character you are but whatever) Horror Holiday Romance
Young Jack is flickering (this word is important) with his belief in St. Nick
His life has been one brutal beatdown after another -
an addict for a mother
shuffled into a foster system that offers no safety
Still, he holds a small hope inside that there is something more in store for him someday.
Until then he will protect those he can
Hang on kiddo there is still a little magic left and it has your name on it.
I can't describe this and do it justice.
It's not a normal holiday romance.
There are so many possibilities? with the direction of the storyline
(That will make sense after you read Nick's story)
Idk
Just trust in the magic and take a chance
Oh and before I forget there is some violence, some mean people, some smexy moments, and a wraith who may just surprise you.
Don't let anyone spoil this for you!!!!
I'm serious!
The twists
The "OMG" moments
Its a Happily ever after (I guess that depends on which character you are but whatever) Horror Holiday Romance
Young Jack is flickering (this word is important) with his belief in St. Nick
His life has been one brutal beatdown after another -
an addict for a mother
shuffled into a foster system that offers no safety
Still, he holds a small hope inside that there is something more in store for him someday.
Until then he will protect those he can
Hang on kiddo there is still a little magic left and it has your name on it.
I can't describe this and do it justice.
It's not a normal holiday romance.
There are so many possibilities? with the direction of the storyline
(That will make sense after you read Nick's story)
Idk
Just trust in the magic and take a chance
Oh and before I forget there is some violence, some mean people, some smexy moments, and a wraith who may just surprise you.
December 12, 2022
I really enjoyed this! It was a bit dark, but so, so good! Definitely not your typical Christmas story. An epilogue would have made the whole thing perfect. I don’t want to say much of anything about the plot because it would ruin it. The blurb is deliciously vague and the story is best when it’s revealed as you go.
I’ve never read this author before and I liked her writing. I’ll definitely be seeking out more of her books.
***Just a note: the link at the back of the book for a “free read” doesn’t work. I had wanted to download it because it sounded good and isn’t available in KU, so I was quite disappointed.***
I’ve never read this author before and I liked her writing. I’ll definitely be seeking out more of her books.
***Just a note: the link at the back of the book for a “free read” doesn’t work. I had wanted to download it because it sounded good and isn’t available in KU, so I was quite disappointed.***
December 17, 2020
Great little read
After finishing this quick read in the morning, I thought, yeah I like it. I then had to stop reading and get on with my work day. But I didn’t forget the book, and the more my mind drifted to it, and ruminated on how smartly it all tied together, the more I realized: heck yeah, this may be short, but every scene is created for an overall wallop of a read. It’s not a unique plot (which I won’t divulge ‘cause, spoilers) but it’s delivered in a smartly unique and lovely way I totally appreciated and thoroughly enjoyed! Definitely recommend.
After finishing this quick read in the morning, I thought, yeah I like it. I then had to stop reading and get on with my work day. But I didn’t forget the book, and the more my mind drifted to it, and ruminated on how smartly it all tied together, the more I realized: heck yeah, this may be short, but every scene is created for an overall wallop of a read. It’s not a unique plot (which I won’t divulge ‘cause, spoilers) but it’s delivered in a smartly unique and lovely way I totally appreciated and thoroughly enjoyed! Definitely recommend.
December 13, 2020
Cursed & Redemption!?
It’s Christmas Eve: Kris has an unusual mission/calling which allowed him to meet Jack and their unique twist relationship begins. This is an anti-holiday, very dark romance. None of that sickly sweet, way too cute, Christmasy romance here. It is a violently intriguing, fantasy-driven, upside down, good storytelling, holiday novella. I love it but I am partial to dark quirky tales. Can’t say any more, you just have to read it yourself.😈
It’s Christmas Eve: Kris has an unusual mission/calling which allowed him to meet Jack and their unique twist relationship begins. This is an anti-holiday, very dark romance. None of that sickly sweet, way too cute, Christmasy romance here. It is a violently intriguing, fantasy-driven, upside down, good storytelling, holiday novella. I love it but I am partial to dark quirky tales. Can’t say any more, you just have to read it yourself.😈
December 3, 2020
A one-of-a-kind Christmas story, an extremely balanced combination of fantastic and realistic, with complex, well-developed characters and a story like no other.
We have Kris, a stalker (or not) and Jack, the subject of Kris”s preoccupations, who has a predilection for landing in trouble, and who needs to be permanently protected and saved. Or at least this is what Kris thinks. A classic story about an unhealthy relationship, with a totally unhappy ending, right?
WRONG!! The author is a master of suspense, the numerous twists and turns she weaved into the plot keeping me on the edge of my seat. I cried, then smiled through tears, feared for the characters” safety and felt their emotions.
He Sees You When You”re Sleeping is a little gem I warmly recommend to all those who like a great, a little untraditional MM Christmas story.
We have Kris, a stalker (or not) and Jack, the subject of Kris”s preoccupations, who has a predilection for landing in trouble, and who needs to be permanently protected and saved. Or at least this is what Kris thinks. A classic story about an unhealthy relationship, with a totally unhappy ending, right?
WRONG!! The author is a master of suspense, the numerous twists and turns she weaved into the plot keeping me on the edge of my seat. I cried, then smiled through tears, feared for the characters” safety and felt their emotions.
He Sees You When You”re Sleeping is a little gem I warmly recommend to all those who like a great, a little untraditional MM Christmas story.
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