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Make the Yuletide Gay
Junior editor Grace Taylor is doubling as the temporary assistant to senior editor Nicola Valentine…and harboring a secret crush on her. Grace is devastated when a work conference forces her to miss her big family Christmas. However, she gets a gift she doesn’t expect when a snowstorm strands her and Nicola at a small B&B.
Nicola has no idea how to handle sharing a room with her gorgeous, vibrant assistant. As she learns to share her heart as well, her fear threatens the blossoming relationship. Can she let Grace in, or will Nicola’s past sabotage her chance at happiness?
Nicola has no idea how to handle sharing a room with her gorgeous, vibrant assistant. As she learns to share her heart as well, her fear threatens the blossoming relationship. Can she let Grace in, or will Nicola’s past sabotage her chance at happiness?
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First published December 14, 2020
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About the author
Ivy L. James
14 books29 followersIvy L. James wrote her first story on Post-it notes as a child. Since then, she has graduated to regular paper and enjoys writing sapphic romance and poetry. Her work has appeared in the Stygian Collection (Stygian Society), Seers and Sybils (Brigids Gate Press), Horns (Bullshit Lit), HerStry, Snowflake Magazine, and Scavengers Literary Magazine, among others. She lives in the USA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
December 12, 2020
3.25 Stars. I thought this was a nice, boss/employee, holiday romance. Between the ARC’s I have left to read and a few books I’m hoping to get in before the year is over, I wasn’t sure how much time I would have for holiday reads this year. So when I saw that NineStar Press released a new holiday book, I knew I had to scoop it up. It wasn’t a perfect novella for me, it had some bumpy parts, but overall I liked the read and thought it was a solid debut.
My biggest issue was the beginning. Not sure what it was but I could not get into the story. There was a lot of telling me that the characters had feelings for each other but I wasn’t really feeling it. I hate to say this but I actually felt like the story was dragging, which is almost unheard of in a novella. Luckily, that all changed a little before the midway point. The character of Nicola, who I think the author was trying to make into an ice-queen but she was just coming off ornery instead, started to become more of a well-rounded character. She had a history and you understood her more, life was now breathed into her character when it really wasn’t there in the beginning. Not only had that happened but the story itself just got better for me. I sudden liked the romance that was developing and I didn’t even mind the big conflict moment that normally drives me nuts half the time. I didn’t mind it because I finally felt like I was invested in the characters and cared what happened to them.
This wasn’t quite what I was hoping for but I did still enjoy it. After a rocky beginning, James hit their writing groove and the story got much better for me. If you are a fan of sapphic holiday and or boss/employee romances, this might be a novella for you. This was a solid debut read and I would read James again in the future.
An ARC was given to me for an honest review.
My biggest issue was the beginning. Not sure what it was but I could not get into the story. There was a lot of telling me that the characters had feelings for each other but I wasn’t really feeling it. I hate to say this but I actually felt like the story was dragging, which is almost unheard of in a novella. Luckily, that all changed a little before the midway point. The character of Nicola, who I think the author was trying to make into an ice-queen but she was just coming off ornery instead, started to become more of a well-rounded character. She had a history and you understood her more, life was now breathed into her character when it really wasn’t there in the beginning. Not only had that happened but the story itself just got better for me. I sudden liked the romance that was developing and I didn’t even mind the big conflict moment that normally drives me nuts half the time. I didn’t mind it because I finally felt like I was invested in the characters and cared what happened to them.
This wasn’t quite what I was hoping for but I did still enjoy it. After a rocky beginning, James hit their writing groove and the story got much better for me. If you are a fan of sapphic holiday and or boss/employee romances, this might be a novella for you. This was a solid debut read and I would read James again in the future.
An ARC was given to me for an honest review.
February 10, 2021
3.5 Stars
‘Make the Yuletide Gay’ is a cute holiday novella about an editor and her temporary assistant. They’re assigned a last-minute conference the week of Christmas and as it’s too late for plane tickets they’re on a 10-hour road trip to Maine. Along the way they encounter wintery weather and have to stop at the closest hotel, which happens to only have one bed!
While they’ve both had an attraction for each other, the trip lets them get to know each other on a more personal level. I liked how they found things out about each other that they were surprised to learn and shows how even if you spend 8 hours a day with someone, it doesn’t necessarily mean you know them.
James did go the extra step to give the story a bit more depth than is usual for novellas. I was a little disappointed this contained the ever present 90% conflict, however, because of the short length, it was resolved very quickly. Other than that, this was a pretty light hearted, fun read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and NineStar Press in exchange for an honest review.
‘Make the Yuletide Gay’ is a cute holiday novella about an editor and her temporary assistant. They’re assigned a last-minute conference the week of Christmas and as it’s too late for plane tickets they’re on a 10-hour road trip to Maine. Along the way they encounter wintery weather and have to stop at the closest hotel, which happens to only have one bed!
While they’ve both had an attraction for each other, the trip lets them get to know each other on a more personal level. I liked how they found things out about each other that they were surprised to learn and shows how even if you spend 8 hours a day with someone, it doesn’t necessarily mean you know them.
James did go the extra step to give the story a bit more depth than is usual for novellas. I was a little disappointed this contained the ever present 90% conflict, however, because of the short length, it was resolved very quickly. Other than that, this was a pretty light hearted, fun read.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and NineStar Press in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2020
“We’re all scared.” Li Hua folded her arms. “But some things— some people— are worth a little fear.”
3.5 stars. A super adorable sapphic romance that packs in quite a lot of tropes, but still doesn't doesn't feel like it's trying to do too much. It worked! There's a road trip to a conference, they get snowed in, there's only one bed, they're employer and employee, (well, senior editor and assistant) and it's Christmastime. The power imbalance in the sorta employer-employee dynamic is very slight, but it also wasn't ignored. It had a nice light humorous feel to the writing which was helped by all the chapter titles, like "Oh No, I Had a Feeling, Send Help ". Nice touch. It was whimsical and didn't take itself too seriously, but did get a little deeper when it needed to. Grace and Nicola were fun characters with good chemistry and banter.
Like most novellas, the length kind of worked against it. The conflict wasn't exactly unbelievable, but because it came up and was resolved in such a short period of time, I couldn't really get into it. It was a super meaningful issue that would have benefited from some more page time, and getting to know the characters a little better.
Still, this was honestly very adorable with some scenes that will stay with me for a while. I especially liked the first half of the book and the buildup to them getting together. It was a really fun holiday romance, definitely recommended.
Review copy provided via NetGalley.
December 17, 2020
3.2 stars
I am currently enjoying reading Christmas stories, novellas and books. It feels as if these stories are taking place in a different universe. No lock downs, social distancing and masks and no sick people, but ordinary trips, meetings and festivities. This novella was a nice change from day to day life. It’s a story about a boss and employee who discover during a business trip around Christmas that they are attracted to each other and fall in love. Nicola was not loved in her youth and often felt rejected. Though it’s understandable that this causes a lack of self worth, I found it a bit too simplistic to make her character as insecure as the writer did, as she is a 38 year old successful woman who had previous lovers and must have made friends at some time that cared for her. Grace as a very upbeat and optimistic character. This was a nice short romance.
I am currently enjoying reading Christmas stories, novellas and books. It feels as if these stories are taking place in a different universe. No lock downs, social distancing and masks and no sick people, but ordinary trips, meetings and festivities. This novella was a nice change from day to day life. It’s a story about a boss and employee who discover during a business trip around Christmas that they are attracted to each other and fall in love. Nicola was not loved in her youth and often felt rejected. Though it’s understandable that this causes a lack of self worth, I found it a bit too simplistic to make her character as insecure as the writer did, as she is a 38 year old successful woman who had previous lovers and must have made friends at some time that cared for her. Grace as a very upbeat and optimistic character. This was a nice short romance.
December 16, 2020
This was a sweet easy to read novella.
Grace is a book editor acting as Nicola’s temporary assistant at their company. Nicola ends up having to cover a book conference at short notice, when of course there are no other methods of transportation available to them than sharing hours in a car.
The story is somewhat predictable to begin with. They end up in a B&B because the weather gets too bad for them to continue their journey. There’s only one room available.
The things I liked about the story was their connection about their backgrounds. Whilst they had an inevitable split during the narrative due to inability to communicate, it was due to the past and not a hurt one or the other had inflicted and it was resolved relatively quickly.
I found the epilogue to be a nice sweet way to sign the story off and I did find myself wishing this had been a longer story, as I feel it would have been less predictable with more to help with the tropes.
Whilst it contains the usual kinds of things, it was still a sweet, easy page turner that I enjoyed reading. I think Christmas romance fans find this an enjoyable way to pass an hour or so.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Grace is a book editor acting as Nicola’s temporary assistant at their company. Nicola ends up having to cover a book conference at short notice, when of course there are no other methods of transportation available to them than sharing hours in a car.
The story is somewhat predictable to begin with. They end up in a B&B because the weather gets too bad for them to continue their journey. There’s only one room available.
The things I liked about the story was their connection about their backgrounds. Whilst they had an inevitable split during the narrative due to inability to communicate, it was due to the past and not a hurt one or the other had inflicted and it was resolved relatively quickly.
I found the epilogue to be a nice sweet way to sign the story off and I did find myself wishing this had been a longer story, as I feel it would have been less predictable with more to help with the tropes.
Whilst it contains the usual kinds of things, it was still a sweet, easy page turner that I enjoyed reading. I think Christmas romance fans find this an enjoyable way to pass an hour or so.
I received an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2020
Nicole and her assistant, Grace, are both having lustful thoughts about each other, without the other knowing. I wasn't sure how to take them at first with it being a 'how her ass looks' type of attraction, and both wishing they could touch and 'take' each other.
However, I did come around once I got to know the characters more. I definitely would have liked to see them open up more, but I understand that the entire premise is very much Nicola's feelings of self worth being very low and wanting to hide and shy away from any person that could make her vulnerable, and hurt her. Which I found believable and I empathized greatly.
I ultimately enjoyed the connection between Grace and Nicola, and liked the similarities in where they came from yet the differences in where they ended up and how they handle things. Grace is very much more open and friendly and outgoing, while Nicola is reserved and more standoffish. But both compliment each other beautifully and they end up having a sweet connection that I would have liked to of seen more of!
However, I did come around once I got to know the characters more. I definitely would have liked to see them open up more, but I understand that the entire premise is very much Nicola's feelings of self worth being very low and wanting to hide and shy away from any person that could make her vulnerable, and hurt her. Which I found believable and I empathized greatly.
I ultimately enjoyed the connection between Grace and Nicola, and liked the similarities in where they came from yet the differences in where they ended up and how they handle things. Grace is very much more open and friendly and outgoing, while Nicola is reserved and more standoffish. But both compliment each other beautifully and they end up having a sweet connection that I would have liked to of seen more of!
December 20, 2020
I read Make the Yuletide Gay in one sitting and really enjoyed it! Grace was a disaster lesbian from page one, which is how I knew I was in for a treat, lol. The story starts off a bit slow (well, as much as that’s even possible in a novella) but once Nicola started to open up a bit, I was all in on them as a couple! The characters were well developed, and I appreciated the underlying themes of struggling with self-worth & feelings of inadequacy because of childhood trauma.
James weaves multiple popular tropes (snowed in, only one bed, road trip) together seamlessly without it ever feeling over the top, and the annoying obligatory conflict beat present in almost every romance ever was quickly resolved, making for a fun, ultimately satisfying read!
Small but largely insignificant gripe: I was incredibly excited because Make the Yuletide Gay checked (almost) all of my boxes - f/f? Yep. Thawing the ice queen? Yes. Work place romance with care taken to account for any potential power imbalances? Yes. Age gap? Maybe for others, but not for me. 8 years is not an age gap when both people/characters are in their 30s. I’m actually glad someone I follow on Bookstagram labeled it as an age gap romance, because otherwise I might not have looked it up, but at the same time I wouldn’t label a romance between adult characters with less than 10 years between them is “age gap.”
Anyway, Make the Yuletide Gay was a solid overall read. Equal parts adorable and steamy. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit!
Content warning for child neglect/abuse (past, off page)
Love sapphic books, too? Let's be friends! Bookstagram | Booktube | Book Blog | Twitter
James weaves multiple popular tropes (snowed in, only one bed, road trip) together seamlessly without it ever feeling over the top, and the annoying obligatory conflict beat present in almost every romance ever was quickly resolved, making for a fun, ultimately satisfying read!
Small but largely insignificant gripe: I was incredibly excited because Make the Yuletide Gay checked (almost) all of my boxes - f/f? Yep. Thawing the ice queen? Yes. Work place romance with care taken to account for any potential power imbalances? Yes. Age gap? Maybe for others, but not for me. 8 years is not an age gap when both people/characters are in their 30s. I’m actually glad someone I follow on Bookstagram labeled it as an age gap romance, because otherwise I might not have looked it up, but at the same time I wouldn’t label a romance between adult characters with less than 10 years between them is “age gap.”
Anyway, Make the Yuletide Gay was a solid overall read. Equal parts adorable and steamy. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit!
Content warning for child neglect/abuse (past, off page)
Love sapphic books, too? Let's be friends! Bookstagram | Booktube | Book Blog | Twitter
December 14, 2020
I was on a bit of a not so great book streak, so I figured a light and easy Christmas novella would get me out of my reading funk. And it did. This novella is just so cute, trope heavy, but not annoyingly so, just what one needs for their Christmas break (or a pick me up, set during the holiday season).
I think I shouldn't say too much about this story, I wouldn't want to give it all away. Grace and Nicola or colleagues, Nicola is Garce's superior. They go on a road trip to attend a conference, they have the hots for each other, but don't admit to it.
I love the title of the book, as you can interpret it in two ways, I'm going with the one where gay means happy/joyful, it fits best with the chapter titles. They all put a smile on my face and that is what this kind of reading should be about if you asked me. I could have done without the conflict towards the end of the book, it was unnecessary and always so late in romances... It should just happen sooner and characters should learn how to communicate, but it's a novella so all is forgiven. Als the novella starts with a lot of thoughts from each of the characters about how much they like the other, but there is not much there to "see" these likings. It gets better, and this book put a smile on my face so it's all good.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
I think I shouldn't say too much about this story, I wouldn't want to give it all away. Grace and Nicola or colleagues, Nicola is Garce's superior. They go on a road trip to attend a conference, they have the hots for each other, but don't admit to it.
I love the title of the book, as you can interpret it in two ways, I'm going with the one where gay means happy/joyful, it fits best with the chapter titles. They all put a smile on my face and that is what this kind of reading should be about if you asked me. I could have done without the conflict towards the end of the book, it was unnecessary and always so late in romances... It should just happen sooner and characters should learn how to communicate, but it's a novella so all is forgiven. Als the novella starts with a lot of thoughts from each of the characters about how much they like the other, but there is not much there to "see" these likings. It gets better, and this book put a smile on my face so it's all good.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
December 29, 2025
Just somewhat "fine". This was a perfectly acceptable little novella of a story but it didn’t do much for me. There were some cute tropes and a very easy romance with a predictable but short third act breakup. It wasn’t horrible but it also wasn’t something that I would recommend. There were some cute moments even if the overall story was rushed, and if your looking for any and all Christmas fodder then this would be acceptable.
MC#2 had some
🤷
MC#2 had some
🤷
December 14, 2021
5 stars even though a novella. I was so sold on Nicola that she made me weep and Even though it was short I was totally tied in. Took some time warming up, but loved it. Recommended & I'll look for more books by Ivy L James.
December 10, 2020
Such a sweet novella. This is my first wlw romance and I gosh this is exacly what I was wishing for.
The story follows Nicola and her temp assistant through a conference taking place during Chrismats week (just workdays tho). Both have a crush on the other but for obvious reasons they don’t act on it but this rushed conference forces them to be very much in eachother’s space.
If you are worried in anyway about the consent being murky because of the office romance, don’t, I won’t get into spoilers but the consent is very clear.
The physical attraction is established from page one and the book develops more the personal element as it goes on. It's a bit of an insta-love which is not for me but the steamy scenes made me believe in the intimacy of the characters, plus they were HOT.
I’m not going to lie I’m not the biggest fan of novelas, I just think they develop too quickly for me to truly get into the characters and plot. I’ll definetly be on the look out for more Novellas or, hopefully, Novels from Ivy James.
The story follows Nicola and her temp assistant through a conference taking place during Chrismats week (just workdays tho). Both have a crush on the other but for obvious reasons they don’t act on it but this rushed conference forces them to be very much in eachother’s space.
If you are worried in anyway about the consent being murky because of the office romance, don’t, I won’t get into spoilers but the consent is very clear.
The physical attraction is established from page one and the book develops more the personal element as it goes on. It's a bit of an insta-love which is not for me but the steamy scenes made me believe in the intimacy of the characters, plus they were HOT.
I’m not going to lie I’m not the biggest fan of novelas, I just think they develop too quickly for me to truly get into the characters and plot. I’ll definetly be on the look out for more Novellas or, hopefully, Novels from Ivy James.
December 14, 2020
CW: explicit sexual content, descriptions of childhood emotional abuse and neglect
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 Stars
I think this book was a its not you, its me type of situation. I am well aware that certain aspects of some relationships always make me uncomfortable but others find them fine and for me that's any sort of boss/employee relationship which is what this whole book is about. The idea of the power dynamics in those relationships make me so uncomfortable and it is never something I can put out of mind. That being said, I did like some aspects of this novella. I liked how the characters had depth and backstories, something I have noticed you don't get a lot of in Christmasy novellas. I also thought the ice skating scene was cute as were the conversations about hot chocolate. Overall, this is not a story I will revisit but I think its overall fun and others would enjoy it.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 Stars
I think this book was a its not you, its me type of situation. I am well aware that certain aspects of some relationships always make me uncomfortable but others find them fine and for me that's any sort of boss/employee relationship which is what this whole book is about. The idea of the power dynamics in those relationships make me so uncomfortable and it is never something I can put out of mind. That being said, I did like some aspects of this novella. I liked how the characters had depth and backstories, something I have noticed you don't get a lot of in Christmasy novellas. I also thought the ice skating scene was cute as were the conversations about hot chocolate. Overall, this is not a story I will revisit but I think its overall fun and others would enjoy it.
June 27, 2021
This started out cute and funny, stayed that way for most of the story, and then got deep. There are both funny and moving scenes, but the story was over fast. I think this could have been longer. A sudden business trip comes up and Nicola and Grace have to find shelter in a storm. They end up having to share a room and a bed at a B&B. Both women are attracted to each other from the start, but Nicola is Grace’s boss. They’re very much opposites; Nicola is reserved and feels undeserving, and Grace is warm and outgoing. Nicola’s emotional issues felt a little too familiar and deep to be resolved so quickly. I’m happy with the ending, but it was too fast for me to believe it.
December 6, 2020
This is a perfect little Christmas read. Had all the best parts of a Hallmark Christmas movie without the heteronormativity. Both Grace and Nicola were well crafted characters with unique voices. I’d honestly love to see a squeal where Nicola meets Grace’s moms. Thank you to James for sending me an e-arc, I really enjoyed reading it!!
November 20, 2020
Loved this story.
James has a wonderful voice and a great handle on pacing, crafting engaging interactions that pull the reader in and move the story forward. You will not be bored reading this.
The characters are realistic and relatable, and the dichotomy between Grace and Nicola is so colorful and interesting. I found both characters to be relatable, and it’s great to see this kind of well-rounded representation within the genre without relying on cliches.
Without giving anything away, there is a good amount of suspense in the romance that kept me personally invested. 5 stars, highly recommend!
James has a wonderful voice and a great handle on pacing, crafting engaging interactions that pull the reader in and move the story forward. You will not be bored reading this.
The characters are realistic and relatable, and the dichotomy between Grace and Nicola is so colorful and interesting. I found both characters to be relatable, and it’s great to see this kind of well-rounded representation within the genre without relying on cliches.
Without giving anything away, there is a good amount of suspense in the romance that kept me personally invested. 5 stars, highly recommend!
December 23, 2020
When an indie author writes an adorable F|F Christmas romance, what choice do you have but to gobble it up in 24 hours? Ivy writes imperfect characters with very human flaws. One of my favourite things about this bite-sized romance is the way the characters are so tied and shaped by their experiences. This is an absolutely adorable read and it's going to be the thing responsible for my Christmas spirit this year!
December 6, 2020
I was in the mood for a Christmas-themed romance when Ivy James dropped into my DMs asking if I'd be open to reading her book in exchange for an honest review. Perfect timing.
It ticked off a number of my Trope boxes: there's only one bed, grumpy/sunshine, boss/assistant, and stranded in a snowstorm (Is that a trope? It should be). Plus, yes, most of the time I want a full-length novel, but sometimes you just want to curl up and burn an hour reading something short and sweet, you know?
All in all, this was a cozy read that held my interest. James managed to fit a lot of character background and development into a shorter book which I really appreciated because sometimes in a novella you feel like you're missing some of that. Also, I felt like the transition from boss/assistant to lovers was handled mostly realistically (of course, you lose a little realism with how quickly it moves due to the novella aspect) but I didn't find myself scratching my head wondering how the characters got from Point A to Point B.
A great book choice for busy readers who still want a book jam-packed with holiday spirit, sweet romance, and numerous sultry scenes!
It ticked off a number of my Trope boxes: there's only one bed, grumpy/sunshine, boss/assistant, and stranded in a snowstorm (Is that a trope? It should be). Plus, yes, most of the time I want a full-length novel, but sometimes you just want to curl up and burn an hour reading something short and sweet, you know?
All in all, this was a cozy read that held my interest. James managed to fit a lot of character background and development into a shorter book which I really appreciated because sometimes in a novella you feel like you're missing some of that. Also, I felt like the transition from boss/assistant to lovers was handled mostly realistically (of course, you lose a little realism with how quickly it moves due to the novella aspect) but I didn't find myself scratching my head wondering how the characters got from Point A to Point B.
A great book choice for busy readers who still want a book jam-packed with holiday spirit, sweet romance, and numerous sultry scenes!
December 18, 2020
I thought this was a solid debut and a very cute holiday romance novella. I don't typically read novellas, as I am generally drawn to novels with complex character development. The character development of both Grace and Nicola was very good, although I think the author was aiming for an ice-queen in Nicola whereas for me she came across as very shy and introverted with just a touch of PTSD.
Highly recommend a read if you are after a cute holiday novella to get you in the holiday spirit.
Many thanks to Netgalley and NineStar Press. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Highly recommend a read if you are after a cute holiday novella to get you in the holiday spirit.
Many thanks to Netgalley and NineStar Press. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
December 14, 2020
This is the perfect feel-good, lighthearted read for the holidays. It follows the sweet Christmas loving Grace and her grumpy boss Nicola. They end up stranded in a B&B over the holidays and are finally able to find their way to each other.
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3,5/4
~ #fridayinaprilbookreviews
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I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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3,5/4
~ #fridayinaprilbookreviews
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I voluntarily read and reviewed a free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 30, 2020
*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. Pub date: December 14, 2020
This this LGBTQIA+ novella was a cute holiday workplace romance. While I’m not sure the relationship is wholly believable in how fast it progresses, as the initial kiss seemed unlikely to happen in a real situation, I still enjoyed the characters together and was rooting for them.
This this LGBTQIA+ novella was a cute holiday workplace romance. While I’m not sure the relationship is wholly believable in how fast it progresses, as the initial kiss seemed unlikely to happen in a real situation, I still enjoyed the characters together and was rooting for them.
January 4, 2021
I received an ARC of this book thanks to NetGalley and publisher NineStar Press, LLC in exchange for an honest review.
Oh boy, this was 100% the fluffy queer festive story I was hoping for! Make the Yuletide Gay is the story of Grace Taylor and her boss Nicola who end up spending Christmas together when a literary conference is scheduled over the holiday season. The hitch? Both Grace and Nicola have secret crushes on each other. Things get more heated when they are forced to share a room (an oldie but a goodie) and you can pretty much guess where things go from here.
I really loved this book. It's very short and hits a lot of typical romance beats, but this is by no means a bad thing. I liked both Grace and Nicola and found them interesting and developed enough for the length of the story. The Christmas backdrop was great and led to a lot of cute conversations and lovely Christmas imagery.
There are some triggers warnings for abuse at the start of the book and this is related to Nicola's past, but it is discussed in minor detail and isn't too intense for the kind of feel-good read this is. Do be aware that it is brought up though. There are also graphic sex scenes, and a slight power imbalance/age difference (boss/assistant, 8 years) although both main characters are in their 30s and are consenting adults. It didn't bother me at all but it's worth mentioning in case you're not into that.
Overall, I wanted a cute holiday romance about lesbians and that is exactly what I got. There is real heart here though and it was the perfect queer read to get me in the mood for Christmas. If you want a nice cheerful romance then I definitely recommend giving this a try.
Overall Rating: 4/5 stars
Oh boy, this was 100% the fluffy queer festive story I was hoping for! Make the Yuletide Gay is the story of Grace Taylor and her boss Nicola who end up spending Christmas together when a literary conference is scheduled over the holiday season. The hitch? Both Grace and Nicola have secret crushes on each other. Things get more heated when they are forced to share a room (an oldie but a goodie) and you can pretty much guess where things go from here.
I really loved this book. It's very short and hits a lot of typical romance beats, but this is by no means a bad thing. I liked both Grace and Nicola and found them interesting and developed enough for the length of the story. The Christmas backdrop was great and led to a lot of cute conversations and lovely Christmas imagery.
There are some triggers warnings for abuse at the start of the book and this is related to Nicola's past, but it is discussed in minor detail and isn't too intense for the kind of feel-good read this is. Do be aware that it is brought up though. There are also graphic sex scenes, and a slight power imbalance/age difference (boss/assistant, 8 years) although both main characters are in their 30s and are consenting adults. It didn't bother me at all but it's worth mentioning in case you're not into that.
Overall, I wanted a cute holiday romance about lesbians and that is exactly what I got. There is real heart here though and it was the perfect queer read to get me in the mood for Christmas. If you want a nice cheerful romance then I definitely recommend giving this a try.
Overall Rating: 4/5 stars
May 22, 2022
This is a sexy, Christmas age-gap novella about a jaded editor, Nichola, and her bright-eyed assistant, Grace, who must attend a conference for publishers over Christmas, but run into a few road blocks (literally).
This has some of my favourite tropes for romance: hurt/comfort, there was only one bed, literally falling onto each other, snowed in, and a bunch of other adorable tropes and clichés that make my heart soar. It's both a boss/assistant and age gap relationship-- which should make me weary-- but since it's well-done (in my opinion) it actually just makes it all the more sexy.
There were some times where I really didn't understand Nicola's train of thought, and where I thought Grace was overly eager since their relationship was only developing over a few days, but you can ultimately see where they're both coming from. I really enjoyed James' writing style and am going to check out her other works ASAP. With a lot of mushy feelings and a happy ending, this was the lesbian holiday romance I needed!
CW: abuse, neglect, boss/assistant relationship, sex
This has some of my favourite tropes for romance: hurt/comfort, there was only one bed, literally falling onto each other, snowed in, and a bunch of other adorable tropes and clichés that make my heart soar. It's both a boss/assistant and age gap relationship-- which should make me weary-- but since it's well-done (in my opinion) it actually just makes it all the more sexy.
There were some times where I really didn't understand Nicola's train of thought, and where I thought Grace was overly eager since their relationship was only developing over a few days, but you can ultimately see where they're both coming from. I really enjoyed James' writing style and am going to check out her other works ASAP. With a lot of mushy feelings and a happy ending, this was the lesbian holiday romance I needed!
CW: abuse, neglect, boss/assistant relationship, sex
November 25, 2022
Very cute wee festive novella with a few tropes I really love (snowed in, only one bed), but I really struggled throughout the whole book to tell whose perspective I was reading from as there was no difference at all in their narrative style and at times even the things they said and did confused me as to who was the rich senior editor and who was the simple assistant. Overall fun but not a new favourite!
Holiday reading 2022:
1. A Holly Jolly Diwali by Sonya Lalli
2. Make the Yuletide Gay by Ivy L. James
Holiday reading 2022:
1. A Holly Jolly Diwali by Sonya Lalli
2. Make the Yuletide Gay by Ivy L. James
December 18, 2020
This novella, James’ debut, is about Nicola and Grace, boss and secretary respectively, who have to gon on a trip together for work during Christmas. The thing is, both of them have feelings for each other. It’s a heartwarming sapphic romantic comedy with a Christmas setting, the kind of thing you’d want to find on Netflix by the beginning of December: it’s cute and entertaining, as well as having well-constructed characters, especially Nicola.
The process of reading this book, at least for me, was fast. I read it in less than a day, it truly felt like binge-watching a Netflix show (I’m dropping hints that I’d absolutely watch a cinematic adaptation of this book made by Netflix, did y’all notice?). It was fast, but not rushed, though, so kudos to James for nailing the pacing!
I really enjoyed that their attraction to women wasn’t a problem in the narrative. Their problems were unrelated to their sexualities and it feels good to read something that isn’t focused on the overwhelming experience of LGBTphobia for once. However, I think it could’ve been talked about more. The story is in a modern setting, meaning that labels and the experience of LGBTphobia exist and while it doesn’t need to be the focus of the narrative, a brief mention could happen. There could be a mention of their ‘out status’: is Grace out to her family? What about at work? They could’ve talked about their previous relationships, too (the part where they talk about the space Grace takes in the bed and she implies that she’d slept with someone next to her at some point, would be a good introduction to the subject).
Besides, seeing the ‘lesbian’ label used casually in a novella as lighthearted as this one would be meaningful and it’d help normalize it, as it’s usually seen as inherently sexual. It’s only mentioned once near the end of the story, by Grace, and I would’ve liked to see it more often in the narrative. Finally, a detail I appreciated was the fact that it’s mentioned that Nicola started therapy by the end of the book. It’s a fairly popular trope to imply that romantic love can heal everything, even mental illnesses, which is... not the case. And that detail being a part of the story actually touched me, since it’s not a recurring theme.
If you want a cute and quick Christmas sapphic romance that has a happy ending, then you should get ‘Make the Yuletide Gay’. The plot isn’t complex, there are enough Christmassy situations to set up the mood and enough fanfiction tropes to get you emotionally invested.
The process of reading this book, at least for me, was fast. I read it in less than a day, it truly felt like binge-watching a Netflix show (I’m dropping hints that I’d absolutely watch a cinematic adaptation of this book made by Netflix, did y’all notice?). It was fast, but not rushed, though, so kudos to James for nailing the pacing!
I really enjoyed that their attraction to women wasn’t a problem in the narrative. Their problems were unrelated to their sexualities and it feels good to read something that isn’t focused on the overwhelming experience of LGBTphobia for once. However, I think it could’ve been talked about more. The story is in a modern setting, meaning that labels and the experience of LGBTphobia exist and while it doesn’t need to be the focus of the narrative, a brief mention could happen. There could be a mention of their ‘out status’: is Grace out to her family? What about at work? They could’ve talked about their previous relationships, too (the part where they talk about the space Grace takes in the bed and she implies that she’d slept with someone next to her at some point, would be a good introduction to the subject).
Besides, seeing the ‘lesbian’ label used casually in a novella as lighthearted as this one would be meaningful and it’d help normalize it, as it’s usually seen as inherently sexual. It’s only mentioned once near the end of the story, by Grace, and I would’ve liked to see it more often in the narrative. Finally, a detail I appreciated was the fact that it’s mentioned that Nicola started therapy by the end of the book. It’s a fairly popular trope to imply that romantic love can heal everything, even mental illnesses, which is... not the case. And that detail being a part of the story actually touched me, since it’s not a recurring theme.
If you want a cute and quick Christmas sapphic romance that has a happy ending, then you should get ‘Make the Yuletide Gay’. The plot isn’t complex, there are enough Christmassy situations to set up the mood and enough fanfiction tropes to get you emotionally invested.
December 15, 2020
This is a short and sweet holiday themed story about a boss- subordinate romance in which they fall for each other over the course of a sort of disastrous emergency business trip. Both characters have less than stellar childhoods, but Grace, a junior editor for her and her temporary boss's company was saved by her adoptive family. Nicola is still haunted by feelings of inadequacy fostered by her own horrible family. So, as you can imagine, some road trip shenanigans happen and the women actually fall for each other. But it still is a bit of an up hill battle because of Nicola's almost crippling sense of inadequacy that props up when Grace starts to grow more serious.
It is a quick hitter that tries to work in a few things that doesn't quite work out for me because of the amount of time that I prefer to be allowed to breathe for things like that. Like I understand mentioning that Grace had a similar childhood to Nicola, but it just comes off as just telling us, and not showing us how Grace could emphasize with Nicola and help her heal a little. Instead, we get a wizened old lady to help Nicola move through her fears in order to have a healthy relationship with Grace. That's what bugged me the most about the book, but I think it is just because I would have liked it explored in more depth.
Other than that - this is a lovely holiday romance crammed full of hot chocolate, holiday decorations, ice rinks, and yes the paper crane from the cover. Nicola and Grace are easy to cheer for and I had fun watching them dance around each other for most of the read time. I could do without the deeper plot points because they just feel added in for more drama as opposed to something that could be explored further. If you want your holiday cheer, this is pretty much it.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
It is a quick hitter that tries to work in a few things that doesn't quite work out for me because of the amount of time that I prefer to be allowed to breathe for things like that. Like I understand mentioning that Grace had a similar childhood to Nicola, but it just comes off as just telling us, and not showing us how Grace could emphasize with Nicola and help her heal a little. Instead, we get a wizened old lady to help Nicola move through her fears in order to have a healthy relationship with Grace. That's what bugged me the most about the book, but I think it is just because I would have liked it explored in more depth.
Other than that - this is a lovely holiday romance crammed full of hot chocolate, holiday decorations, ice rinks, and yes the paper crane from the cover. Nicola and Grace are easy to cheer for and I had fun watching them dance around each other for most of the read time. I could do without the deeper plot points because they just feel added in for more drama as opposed to something that could be explored further. If you want your holiday cheer, this is pretty much it.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 26, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and NineStar Press for the digital galley of this book.
Junior editor Grace Taylor’s annual family plans are ruined when her temporary boss, senior editor Nicola Valentine, informs her of their holiday travel plans to a publishing conference. Grace has been harboring a secret crush on Nicola for a while, and when a snowstorm strands them at a B&B with only one room, temptation will be hard to ignore. Uber professional Nicola Valentine is having a hard time being snowed in when adorable Grace, and she’s having trouble fighting her attraction in the confined space. She’s got a lot of baggage she’ll have to work through to let Grace in, or perhaps the pair were doomed all along.
This book is like the pie you have after a Christmas meal. Did you neeeeeed it? Probably not. Did you inhale it in two bites and enjoy every drop? Uh, duh. Of course you did. I devoured this book in two days (would have been one but I had to work today), and it was delectable. Like a Hallmark movie, but gay and with some actually hot scenes.
I love a good workplace outside of work romance, particularly in a “we’re trapped oh noooo gotta share the bed” situation. It’s super light, which I think we all need this holiday season. It moves quickly, and the characters are delightful, particularly one of the supporting characters.
For me, Christmas isn’t over until New Year’s and even then, it’s a toss up as to whether the tree will get put up right away, so if you still want to ride the high (or the chill) of the holidays, pick up this book and settle into a nest of blankets.
Junior editor Grace Taylor’s annual family plans are ruined when her temporary boss, senior editor Nicola Valentine, informs her of their holiday travel plans to a publishing conference. Grace has been harboring a secret crush on Nicola for a while, and when a snowstorm strands them at a B&B with only one room, temptation will be hard to ignore. Uber professional Nicola Valentine is having a hard time being snowed in when adorable Grace, and she’s having trouble fighting her attraction in the confined space. She’s got a lot of baggage she’ll have to work through to let Grace in, or perhaps the pair were doomed all along.
This book is like the pie you have after a Christmas meal. Did you neeeeeed it? Probably not. Did you inhale it in two bites and enjoy every drop? Uh, duh. Of course you did. I devoured this book in two days (would have been one but I had to work today), and it was delectable. Like a Hallmark movie, but gay and with some actually hot scenes.
I love a good workplace outside of work romance, particularly in a “we’re trapped oh noooo gotta share the bed” situation. It’s super light, which I think we all need this holiday season. It moves quickly, and the characters are delightful, particularly one of the supporting characters.
For me, Christmas isn’t over until New Year’s and even then, it’s a toss up as to whether the tree will get put up right away, so if you still want to ride the high (or the chill) of the holidays, pick up this book and settle into a nest of blankets.
December 19, 2020
Contemporary romances aren't my usual go-tos but with a snappy title like "Make the Yuletide Gay" I knew I had to take a read.
This is a holiday romance that follows Grace who is the assistant to Nicola on their way to a conference over Christmas. Nicola is the harsh grumpy grinch and Grace is the upbeat festive type. Through this story they get snowed into a bed and breakfast that somehow only has one room and one bed which the housekeeper encourages them to share, and this is where they fall in love.
For me personally, I couldn't get past the unrealistic and completely unprofessional situation that this was. I'm cool with the concept of boss:assistant romance and even getting snowed in but I feel like they should've been strangers or co-workers or something less formal. Like as a boss you should've sorted out the issue and would've have slept in the same bed as your assistant because YOU'RE A PROFESSIONAL and that's literally your job - it would make more sense if it was like lower level co-workers and that was out of their control / professional level. The dynamic made all the situations really weird and cring-y for me. PLUS, having the housekeeper basically force you together was reallyyyy strange.
If that dynamic in this situation doesn't rub you the wrong way then this is a light and easy holiday romance.
* I received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
This is a holiday romance that follows Grace who is the assistant to Nicola on their way to a conference over Christmas. Nicola is the harsh grumpy grinch and Grace is the upbeat festive type. Through this story they get snowed into a bed and breakfast that somehow only has one room and one bed which the housekeeper encourages them to share, and this is where they fall in love.
For me personally, I couldn't get past the unrealistic and completely unprofessional situation that this was. I'm cool with the concept of boss:assistant romance and even getting snowed in but I feel like they should've been strangers or co-workers or something less formal. Like as a boss you should've sorted out the issue and would've have slept in the same bed as your assistant because YOU'RE A PROFESSIONAL and that's literally your job - it would make more sense if it was like lower level co-workers and that was out of their control / professional level. The dynamic made all the situations really weird and cring-y for me. PLUS, having the housekeeper basically force you together was reallyyyy strange.
If that dynamic in this situation doesn't rub you the wrong way then this is a light and easy holiday romance.
* I received an arc in exchange for an honest review*
December 23, 2020
Ivy L. James brings us a snowed-in rom-com in Make the Yuletide Gay. James gives the characters very similar backgrounds, but only one of them had a chance for happiness when she was a kid. It gives a strong foundation for Grace and Nic where Nic would not have seen one. Never mind they both work in the same field, so yet another common interest. James may have snowed them in, but they give the characters a real base to work on in their road trip to love.
I think I like this story more for the commonalities in the characters and for James making their relationship work in this manner. It seems more real to me. Their stories are not ones that they share with other people, so it is something that connects Grace and Nic on a very personal level.
I keep harping on the serious stuff, when James does bring some heat to Yuletide. There are steamy moments and funny ones. Oh and the romantic night that Grace puts on...yummy. I so want a girlfriend who does that. I will take one Grace please!
Make The Yuletide Gay is another book I will be adding to the must read every year pile.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
I think I like this story more for the commonalities in the characters and for James making their relationship work in this manner. It seems more real to me. Their stories are not ones that they share with other people, so it is something that connects Grace and Nic on a very personal level.
I keep harping on the serious stuff, when James does bring some heat to Yuletide. There are steamy moments and funny ones. Oh and the romantic night that Grace puts on...yummy. I so want a girlfriend who does that. I will take one Grace please!
Make The Yuletide Gay is another book I will be adding to the must read every year pile.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
December 13, 2020
This book was provided to me by Net Galley and all opinions are my own. Thank you Net Galley!
I am so glad I have found/gotten to read more wlw romances this year. This one specifically was like a breath of fresh air. I loved the chapter names so much and the way the writer wrote the chemistry was impressive.
I loved the inclusion that Grace reads romance novels, I thought it was cute and funny. I thought the sexual tension was palpable and made sense. There was care put there and I could tell. (I have several notes on how impressed I was with the chemistry between them). The romance part itself was a bit fast for me but it was a rather short book so no surprise there.
I rooted for them and thought that Nicola's experience with trauma and her subsequent actions were realistic, though a bit fast for me. I liked that it peppered the story instead of driving it, and made her decisions make a lot of sense. I also thought that they made a good couple, and truly cared for one another. In such a short amount of pages that is very impressive.
I am so glad I have found/gotten to read more wlw romances this year. This one specifically was like a breath of fresh air. I loved the chapter names so much and the way the writer wrote the chemistry was impressive.
I loved the inclusion that Grace reads romance novels, I thought it was cute and funny. I thought the sexual tension was palpable and made sense. There was care put there and I could tell. (I have several notes on how impressed I was with the chemistry between them). The romance part itself was a bit fast for me but it was a rather short book so no surprise there.
I rooted for them and thought that Nicola's experience with trauma and her subsequent actions were realistic, though a bit fast for me. I liked that it peppered the story instead of driving it, and made her decisions make a lot of sense. I also thought that they made a good couple, and truly cared for one another. In such a short amount of pages that is very impressive.
December 13, 2020
This was a fast cute read and I loved it.
I have a lack of Christmas vibes this year but I think perhaps many do in the sum of 2020.
This book was a warm gingerbread cookie that makes you want to enjoy December again. It’s cute, it’s sweet, it’s sexy, and it’s , (not so shockingly?) GAY!
The two characters in it bounce off of each other. Nicola and grace are vague opposites and it works so well together.
It’s that vague trope of a forbidden office romance but handled well and sweetly with a fresh twist. I mean, who wouldn’t want to get secluded with their cute boss for a week?
I will say there’s definitely TW’s just for vague mentions of troubled childhoods, neglect etc, but it’s glazed over, handled well and has a comforting resolution.
I marked this down slightly just for some storyline progression but really enjoyed the writing style.
A warming winter read for all the sapphics out there 🤙🏻🙌🏻
I have a lack of Christmas vibes this year but I think perhaps many do in the sum of 2020.
This book was a warm gingerbread cookie that makes you want to enjoy December again. It’s cute, it’s sweet, it’s sexy, and it’s , (not so shockingly?) GAY!
The two characters in it bounce off of each other. Nicola and grace are vague opposites and it works so well together.
It’s that vague trope of a forbidden office romance but handled well and sweetly with a fresh twist. I mean, who wouldn’t want to get secluded with their cute boss for a week?
I will say there’s definitely TW’s just for vague mentions of troubled childhoods, neglect etc, but it’s glazed over, handled well and has a comforting resolution.
I marked this down slightly just for some storyline progression but really enjoyed the writing style.
A warming winter read for all the sapphics out there 🤙🏻🙌🏻
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