Kels Bells

by V.J. Lee

Kelsey (Kels) Armond hated everything about Christmas, and this one was going down in the history books as the worst ever. She was going to be the maid of honor in her best friend's Christmas wedding, which included her wearing a Mrs. Claus bridesmaids dress, right down to the furry boots—ugh. Throw in a couple of murders, a coma, add in her best friend’s hot brother (who she's always had a crush on) bringing home his equally hot girlfriend—who was also going to be in the wedding—and it was a recipe for disaster.

Maybe going to prison for murder wouldn't be so bad.

Dalton Green has compared every woman he's ever dated to the love of his life, Kelsey Armond. Even his hot California girlfriend couldn't compare to the voluptuous Kels. His Christmas wish was for her to see him, talk to him, anything other than scowl, and walk away from him, with her reluctance to express feelings of love—almost like she felt she was undeserving. It was his Christmas mission to show her how beautiful she sincerely was, and prove to her how deserving she truly was of being loved, and prove to her how magical Christmas could be—that is, if he didn't get arrested for murder first.

Genres: Contemporary Romance

341 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2021

Reviews

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kels Bells

3/3.5

An emotional second chance romance that is perfect for the holidays. There were plenty of ups and downs and twists and turns this story took that kept me hooked from the start. I enjoyed the bit of suspense and mystery sprinkled in the book as well.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kelsey Armond really hates all things Christmas but she will do anything for her best friend Lennox even wear a red Santa like dress for her wedding . When the man she has loved since she was a teenager walks in looking as good as ever . He is also her best friends brother . They should be together and Dalton realizes that and Kelsey is so unsure that she deserves his love because she isn't stick thin like the woman he came home with . Will the past haunt them, will they be able to fight for what they want . Will two murders and a coma of the only woman who loved Kelsey for who she is keep them apart . Or will love conquer all .
Ok I absolutely adore these characters , Kelsey and Dalton . They are such a I am not going to say a fun couple because there is so much angst that is happening between these two . Kelsey is well she is tough and lets people know what she is thinking . Will do anything for her best friend and her cousin. But there is a sadness in her that is all consuming . She is fighting for her life in everyway possible and some of it isn't good . She needs to feel loved and to love with all her heart . She is also a curvy girl who doesn't believe that she can be loved by the hot ,sexy man with the six pack . Dalton is well he is hot , and he just wants a woman who will love him for himself . He is the guy next door and Kel's best friends older brother . He is the one man that could make Kels realize that she is beautiful and deserves love but it will be a hard battle for both of them . There are moments when you feel the pain that rolls off Dalton and you just want to hug him and wrap a blanket around him . I think my most favourite character is grandma Ruby she is such a fun woman even though she spends most of her time in a coma you know there is more to grandma then you think. Lennox is back and as sweet as ever .
This is a story that is a Christmas story but so much more . This a story of redemption and love . The characters are so complex and so well written, you just want to make sure they are ok and wrap them up in a warm blanket . The author really takes us on an emotional roller coaster ride . I will admit to you that if you have a trigger be prepared . There is abuse scenes in this story that will have you crying .Don't worry things will work out or will they not going to tell you . You will have to get the book to find out . This is a story of redemption and a second chance at love that will have you gushing and full of love . This a book to read on a cold winter evening with a good glass of wine a box of tissues and cozy blanket . So check it out and grab it for the reader in your life

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please read A Lenox Christmas before this one as you'll learn about the girl's relationship and
more. Kelsey Armond has always been teased for what she looks like, growing up was hell and the friendship with Lennox is what save her. Kelsey has always had feelings for Lennox's brother Dalton but he always treated like another sister and that broke her heart. Even though she puts up a front of having men at her beck and call, is never afraid to say what she thinks, and had the heart as big as her ass. (Her/Lennox's words not mine).
But the life she leads in private has always been hell, and the only one who knows about it, is her cousin Halston, who has also gone through it. But when He was able to stop it, it was worse for Kelsey. When Dalton's girlfriend wants to date others, something breaks in him and is also confused why Kels Bells (his nickname for her) is treating him the way she does. She loves him but feels he wouldn't want her for the way she looks plus never knowing how to love , leaves her confused and doubting that he would ever love her. But when Dalton finds out what is going on with Kels's family, he is there for her and they relationship changes. But will Dalton leave or stay when violence happens to her family? What will happen to their relationship? Will it be torn apart or bring them closer to each other? What will happen to Kels beloved Gma, is there something about her that she doesn't know about? V J Lee 's books leave you wanting more, there is suspense, danger, love, confusion and more. This book will touch your heart, make you cry, laugh, hate, love and leave you wanting more. If I could put 10 stars I would but since 5 are only shown, I'll make do with that.

[**Elle**Bee**Double U** · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my feels!
I really thought Lennox story was a killer, but poor Kels, her story is just as bad as Lennox.
Kelsey Armond isn't like your typical rich woman and doesn't especially flaunt her wealth much to her parents dismay. She may come across as cold and bitchy to some, but underneath her rough exterior is a woman that would do anything for those that she loves, even if she can't tell them that she loves them.
Dalton Green, oh poor Dalton. He's the guy who can't seem to find the woman who will stick around with his "clingy-ness". He is the kind of guy who wants to find a woman to love and spoil, even if it makes him sound like a chick.
I absolutely loved these two. Things happen between Dalton and Kelsey that put a roadblock between them. While they grew up together and Kelsey always seemed to have feelings for Dalton, she closes herself off to protect her heart from him. There's also a part of Kelsey's life that she's kept from becoming public so nobody actually knows the full extent of her torture and what her family puts her through.
But I absolutely loved how Dalton wouldn't let Kelsey push him away no matter what, even when everything is all said and done, when she complains about her baggage and not knowing how to be in a relationship.

[Iluvbks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow ! Kels story is heart wrenching and was hard to read at times. Her cousin Halston’s as well. Dalton he is so unaware. To see his journey of becoming aware of what is around him was interesting. This story might trigger some if they have had abuse in the past so be aware. This story took you on a rough journey and you held your breath often almost not wanting to turn the page yet you have to know what happens next. There were parts that were repeated often which was strange. When Kelsey and her cousin talk about his therapist Rose. This happens more than once and it’s as if it the first time they have talked about it, so that was something that should have been caught in the editing. It did not distract from the story just was not needed again.
I also liked that the characters from book one were very present in book two. I will say you really need to read book one to fully get book two.

[Vickie Chaisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will tear your heart out and wreck your soul. It is so full of all the feels you could want in a suspenseful romance but then they throw in Christmas. The storyline is intensely addictive you will cry, you will laugh and you will be enthralled until the very last page. The characters are written to perfection and the chemistry between Dalton and Kelsey is a slow burn second chance burns hot forever and ever. The Armond family are some truly messed up individuals and I would have wanted to take them down if I knew them. The pain they caused Halston and Kelsey is unimaginable. There are triggers in the book be sure to read the warnings and the author tells it like it is. I loved these characters and the sassy bold hardass women in this series. You will not be disappointed by the book or the author.

[Ruth Bishop · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Kelsey and Dalton's story. I was pleasantly surprised to find out there was a new book after Lenox Christmas. What a wonderful surprise ❣️ Kelsey is very bold and ballsey to say the least she is constantly picked on because of her size but she doesn't let anyone see her hurt. Dalton is Len's brother and he tried to protect her when they were in school then something happened she remembers he doesn't. Kel's is maid of honor in lenox's wedding and of course Dalton will be there. There are twists in the story that I would have never thought of. I think my favorite character is Grandma Ruby this emotional book has all the feels.

[Breen · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Hold on becase this story was fantastic! My heart broke for Kels and everything she went through but NOTHING prepared me for her reality. As I keep reading I was trap in between wanting Dalton and her to be together but also find out what happened to her and Hals. It was like falling into the rabbit hole! Things kep getting darker and darker like OMG!! OMG!!! And suddenly we landed and pieces started to fall in place including the romance *wink wink* The book was long and the slow burn was killing me but the plot itself had me glued to the pages. The ending was absolutely perfect."

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kels story is not your typical Christmas romance and Kels is not your typical heroine. She's complex, brash and despite a lifetime of abuse has a big heart. The characters and their interactions are realistic and so well written triggering very strong emotions I suggest reading A Lenox Christmas first to fully appreciate Dalton, Dean, Lenox, Kels and Halston. Kels Bells is filled with plot twists, steamy sex scenes , suspense and murder. A brilliantly crafted tale that I guarantee you won't be able to put down.

[Sydney Hopke · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love these characters and the new ones are great too! It's a love story that took it's time coming and a bit of a mystery is thrown in. There's heat, friendship, family (good and bad), and stuff that is hard oh and a Christmas wedding for her bestie. It'll make you smile, shed a few tears, want to smack some people and hug others. It's a definite must read and I hope Hals and Cosmo get stories and we get more of gma!

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an emotional ride. Kels and her cousin are abuse survivors, but unlike her friend Lenox, she can’t get over it, as it is continuing. Her one crush from school has started to notice her but she doesn’t believe he can like her. With a few words from her grandma he moves into their house and witnesses things first hand. But when things get worse and people turn up dead can their love endure? This is a fantastic story with triggering descriptions but well written.

[Cheri George · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best Christmas Story EVER!!!

I could not put this book down!!! Once again V.J.Lee has written a book to die for. This story captivated me from the first page to the last word! I fell in love with Dalton an Kelsey and couldn't read fast enough to find out what happened to them next! Now please please V.J.Lee wrote a book about the oh so delicious Halston!!!

[Tresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, what a story. This one was difficult to read, but well worth it. Kelsey is an outspoken, feisty woman who has dealt and is dealing with so much in her life. She is someone you would want as your best friend! There are some tough moments in this book that absolutely break your heart. But definitely worth reading!

[Kelly Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Amazing Christmas Read

Love the characters in Kels Bells and how it ties to Lennox Christmas Story. Easy reading and a story to warm your heart for the season. Vj lee had done it again :)

[Nikki Bao · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kels Armond hates Christmas but is going to be part of her BF's Christmas wedding. Stuff's going on that includes her BF's hot brother. Dalton Green has always loved Kels and his current girlfriend can't compare. He hopes that his Christmas wish comes true.

[Connie Royer-Keener · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading A Lenox Christmas I wanted more Kelsey and I got it in the second book Kels Bells. Just as amazing as the first, I loved every page. A definite read to give you that holiday spirit any time of year.

[Cary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh.MY.GOD Kelsey and Dalton!!! How I love this couple!! I thought Lenox's story was hard but Kelsey's is as hard as LJ´s. The story has twists, turns, heat, angst and it sweeps you of your feet. I am really hoping we get more stories in this world!!

[Lori Hammons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The drama and suspense of Kels life is painful to realize. Dalton and her realizing their feelings are mutual is also dramatic. There is a level of humor and sarcasm that makes this an easy book to read. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

[Tricia Coker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for a Christmas romance of any flavor, really. This was a nice second chance romance but what really set it apart were the mysteries and thrilling aspects that kept things jumping. Not your average second chance Christmas shenanigans. Highly recommend!

[Staci Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Difficult to see what's in front of us

Love between broken individuals requires effort from both people. It isn't a magical cure to be in love. It needs cultivation with care. So very beautiful when done correctly.