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On a Midnight Clear
It can safely be said that Lord Barnaby Greenwood is not having the best of Christmases.
He’s penniless, up to his eyeballs in debt, and about to lose his estate. Therefore, it’s hardly surprising that when a local property developer offers a lot of money to buy King’s Wood from him, Barnaby is very tempted. But his father had always impressed on him that the green wood was sacred and must be protected at all costs, so he finds himself saying no.
He knows this will result in the loss of his home, but duty comes before everything. However, that fateful decision leads instead to a magical Christmas for Barnaby, complete with an old god who grants him a favour, and a beautiful statue that comes to life.
Cosmo is perfect for him. He’s funny and kind and completely enraptured with Barnaby, and for the first time in his life, Barnaby falls in love. But how can this lead to anything but heartache, when on the last stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve, Cosmo will go back to being a statue and take Barnaby’s heart with him?
From bestselling author Lily Morton comes a truly magical romantic comedy.
He’s penniless, up to his eyeballs in debt, and about to lose his estate. Therefore, it’s hardly surprising that when a local property developer offers a lot of money to buy King’s Wood from him, Barnaby is very tempted. But his father had always impressed on him that the green wood was sacred and must be protected at all costs, so he finds himself saying no.
He knows this will result in the loss of his home, but duty comes before everything. However, that fateful decision leads instead to a magical Christmas for Barnaby, complete with an old god who grants him a favour, and a beautiful statue that comes to life.
Cosmo is perfect for him. He’s funny and kind and completely enraptured with Barnaby, and for the first time in his life, Barnaby falls in love. But how can this lead to anything but heartache, when on the last stroke of midnight on Christmas Eve, Cosmo will go back to being a statue and take Barnaby’s heart with him?
From bestselling author Lily Morton comes a truly magical romantic comedy.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2021
200 people are currently reading
832 people want to read
About the author
Lily Morton
79 books3,330 followersLily is a bestselling gay romance author.
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
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TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
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Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10000...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lilymortonauthor
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 371 reviews
December 22, 2021
I enjoyed everything about this story except for the intimate scenes between the MCs. The way they were written, they only ruined the magical atmosphere for me. With a story like this one, I would have preferred something more romantic and swoony.
December 13, 2021
One of Lily's absolute best books.
Go into this with an open heart and an open mind and you will be rewarded with a story which is just pure magic and so full of joy and happiness it made my heart ache.
It draws heavily on English folklore, Lily shows a deft hand for how she weaves the old Yule traditions and the more modern threats facing many an old country manor due to death duties, taxes and horrendous energy bills 😉
Barnaby Greenwood, Viscount Greenwood, is in a pickle, he's got a rapacious builder trying to get hold of his wood and there's no money to pay the bills, never mind find presents for the staff, support the annual village Christmas fete, not even for logs to burn in the cavernous fireplaces.
But when the gap between real and legend draws thin, Barnaby finds that sometimes all it takes is a bit of courage to speak up and allow yourself to be vulnerable.
There was not one single bit of this book that I didn't love. It takes you on a wild ride through the Derbyshire countryside and introduces a whole host of wonderful characters, no more so than Cosmo, the beautiful Greek marble statue who comes to life in what at first seems like a dream to Barnaby.
Cosmo is one of Lily's best creations, I'm pretty sure she's actually met him in the dusty back room of some grand stately home (is the Duke of Devonshire missing one from Chatsworth perhaps 😁) and he is just everything that's good about human nature in one glorious package. His whippet Cyrus is a bundle of fun too and with a very distinct personality.
I really loved the method by which Lily introduced potential hope for Barnaby and the estate and it felt grounded in reality among all the magical things which were happening around them. I also very much appreciated the sense of menace which is hanging in the air at times -you really don't want to mess about with some of the creatures found in folklore!
This is the perfect festive book to cuddle up with on a cold night, sat in front of a roaring fire with a hot chocolate - or a good Scotch - and to just let the atmosphere of an old English country estate charm you.
Simply beautiful.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours in return for an honest and unbiased review
Go into this with an open heart and an open mind and you will be rewarded with a story which is just pure magic and so full of joy and happiness it made my heart ache.
It draws heavily on English folklore, Lily shows a deft hand for how she weaves the old Yule traditions and the more modern threats facing many an old country manor due to death duties, taxes and horrendous energy bills 😉
Barnaby Greenwood, Viscount Greenwood, is in a pickle, he's got a rapacious builder trying to get hold of his wood and there's no money to pay the bills, never mind find presents for the staff, support the annual village Christmas fete, not even for logs to burn in the cavernous fireplaces.
But when the gap between real and legend draws thin, Barnaby finds that sometimes all it takes is a bit of courage to speak up and allow yourself to be vulnerable.
There was not one single bit of this book that I didn't love. It takes you on a wild ride through the Derbyshire countryside and introduces a whole host of wonderful characters, no more so than Cosmo, the beautiful Greek marble statue who comes to life in what at first seems like a dream to Barnaby.
Cosmo is one of Lily's best creations, I'm pretty sure she's actually met him in the dusty back room of some grand stately home (is the Duke of Devonshire missing one from Chatsworth perhaps 😁) and he is just everything that's good about human nature in one glorious package. His whippet Cyrus is a bundle of fun too and with a very distinct personality.
I really loved the method by which Lily introduced potential hope for Barnaby and the estate and it felt grounded in reality among all the magical things which were happening around them. I also very much appreciated the sense of menace which is hanging in the air at times -you really don't want to mess about with some of the creatures found in folklore!
This is the perfect festive book to cuddle up with on a cold night, sat in front of a roaring fire with a hot chocolate - or a good Scotch - and to just let the atmosphere of an old English country estate charm you.
Simply beautiful.
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Tours in return for an honest and unbiased review
November 16, 2023
This book was wonderfully beautiful. I loved it very much. My only complaint would be that Barnaby is portrayed a little too stupidly at the beginning. He's not so stupid that it takes him ages to realize that magic is involved and who Cosmo is. 🙄 It kind of dragged the beginning into a bit of a snooze (that's only five pages or so, so it's not really bad), and after that ... wow ... swooning.
“You have a way of making me see magic, Cosmo, but not the sort where you rub your nose. It’s the ordinary magic that I seem to have forgotten about.” 🥰🥰🥰
The magic used here was marvelous. And the relationship develops naturally. I was worried that it might be too much too fast, as there are only a few days available on the plot side, but I should have known that Lily would be able to pull it off.
Well, so this book is my perfect definition of a fairytale Christmas romance. And in addition to the romantic moments and all the magic, there are also quite a few funny scenes.
“Aren’t llamas quite vicious? They spit and get territorial.”
Cosmo laughs. “No more than unicorns.” We both turn to look at him, and unfortunately, he elaborates. “They are wicked creatures. They look so sweet and soft, and then you reach out for one tiny pet of their mane, and they bite you.” He tuts. “That pretty horn should never have been used so vengefully either. Shockingly disappointing behaviour.” 😂🦄😂
“You have a way of making me see magic, Cosmo, but not the sort where you rub your nose. It’s the ordinary magic that I seem to have forgotten about.” 🥰🥰🥰
The magic used here was marvelous. And the relationship develops naturally. I was worried that it might be too much too fast, as there are only a few days available on the plot side, but I should have known that Lily would be able to pull it off.
Well, so this book is my perfect definition of a fairytale Christmas romance. And in addition to the romantic moments and all the magic, there are also quite a few funny scenes.
“Aren’t llamas quite vicious? They spit and get territorial.”
Cosmo laughs. “No more than unicorns.” We both turn to look at him, and unfortunately, he elaborates. “They are wicked creatures. They look so sweet and soft, and then you reach out for one tiny pet of their mane, and they bite you.” He tuts. “That pretty horn should never have been used so vengefully either. Shockingly disappointing behaviour.” 😂🦄😂
August 9, 2022
I don't read a lot of Lily Morton, but are her book always so... floofy?
On a Midnight Clear was a drama-free mushfest of a story with lots of lovey-dovey moments and, well, that's about it. It's a nice palate cleanser, and a very easy read, but I found my attention wandering a lot. I don't know if these sappy books are my speed *shrugs*
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On a Midnight Clear was a drama-free mushfest of a story with lots of lovey-dovey moments and, well, that's about it. It's a nice palate cleanser, and a very easy read, but I found my attention wandering a lot. I don't know if these sappy books are my speed *shrugs*
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December 28, 2021
I have mixed feelings about this story.
On the one hand, On a Midnight Clear didn't read quite like a Lily Morton book, and the magical elements were overdone. I prefer a more subtle approach.
Cosmo never felt like a fully realized character. He fixes all of life's woes with magic and is overly exuberant about everything.
Barnaby narrates the story, but I couldn't get a feel for him either. He kept saying he was boring, and he kind of was, but boring doesn't a personality make.
On the other hand, the story overflows with Christmas spirit and sweet, tender moments. The ending, while predictable, is a perfect HEA.
On the one hand, On a Midnight Clear didn't read quite like a Lily Morton book, and the magical elements were overdone. I prefer a more subtle approach.
Cosmo never felt like a fully realized character. He fixes all of life's woes with magic and is overly exuberant about everything.
Barnaby narrates the story, but I couldn't get a feel for him either. He kept saying he was boring, and he kind of was, but boring doesn't a personality make.
On the other hand, the story overflows with Christmas spirit and sweet, tender moments. The ending, while predictable, is a perfect HEA.
Read
December 18, 2021DNF at 24%
This is just WAY too fanciful. I can't even suspend my disbelief to try and buy this story.
This is just WAY too fanciful. I can't even suspend my disbelief to try and buy this story.
February 12, 2022
This was...unexpected. In the most surprising way.
It didn't read like a typical Morton story but I still found myself enchanted.
It was magical. And charming. And absolutely delightful.
I didn't want it to end.
*4 marvelous-mystical stars*
It didn't read like a typical Morton story but I still found myself enchanted.
It was magical. And charming. And absolutely delightful.
I didn't want it to end.
*4 marvelous-mystical stars*
January 8, 2022
BR with the lovely Cassandra
This is the loveliest story about a statue come to life for the Yuletide. Cosmo is this wonderful being who brings joy and love to everyone he meets. He takes Barnaby’s cold world of Gray and drenched it with a rainbow of color. Can you say heartwarming?
It’s hard to enjoy things when you know they have an expiration date. I totally understand Barnaby’s worries and woes.
You’ve gotta love the accuracy from town gossip. Cosmo went from being in a commune to a cult and than lastly he escaped a biker gang.
My heart is so full after reading this. It’s not only a lovely, heartwarming story. It’s everything you dream for and to live vicariously through these men has made me immensely content.
I may have read it after the holidays are said and done but what a delightful way to end the season.
This is the loveliest story about a statue come to life for the Yuletide. Cosmo is this wonderful being who brings joy and love to everyone he meets. He takes Barnaby’s cold world of Gray and drenched it with a rainbow of color. Can you say heartwarming?
It’s hard to enjoy things when you know they have an expiration date. I totally understand Barnaby’s worries and woes.
You’ve gotta love the accuracy from town gossip. Cosmo went from being in a commune to a cult and than lastly he escaped a biker gang.
My heart is so full after reading this. It’s not only a lovely, heartwarming story. It’s everything you dream for and to live vicariously through these men has made me immensely content.
I may have read it after the holidays are said and done but what a delightful way to end the season.
December 23, 2023
Barnaby es el ultimo heredero del titulo GreenWood, con todas las deudas que esto implica. Sabe que sus deudas son muchas y que para él va a ser imposible mantener su mansión abierta por mucho mas tiempo. Sin embargo, no quiere vender la propiedad a un grupo de inversores que lo que quieren es destruir el bosque. Así que una noche, recibe la visita de un ser mágico que le cumple un deseo que nunca pensó que podía hacerse realidad. De esta forma "cobra vida" la estatua de mármol de un joven con el que Barnaby siempre se ha sentido conectado, pero esto es solo hasta Nochebuena, y después todo vuelve a ser como antes. Barnaby vivirá unos días llenos de alegría y espíritu navideño, pero podrá su felicidad durar mas tiempo? Cómo puede salvar su casa y los bosques? Será posible que su "estatua" se quede con él para siempre? Se cumplirá el deseo de navidad de Barnaby?
Es una linda y dulce historia navideña, llena de magia, amor, comida y muy poco drama. Me gustó muchísimo la personalidad de Cosmo, y me reí con Cyrrus, pero también sentí compasión por todos los problemas que enfrentaba Barnaby, que son el día a día de muchas personas en esta época. Sin embargo, me pareció un poco forzado la forma como logró "salvar" la propiedad, y el uso de los poderes de Cosmo.
Pero, es un libro digno de la época navideña, cuando terminas de leer la historia, solo queda una sonrisa en tu rostro, y eso es lo mejor que uno puede tener en esta época. Así que si, es una de los autores que leo de vez en cuando y nunca me han decepcionado, siempre tiene personajes dulces e historias llenas de romance y amor, por supuesto seguiré leyendo otros de sus libros.
Es una linda y dulce historia navideña, llena de magia, amor, comida y muy poco drama. Me gustó muchísimo la personalidad de Cosmo, y me reí con Cyrrus, pero también sentí compasión por todos los problemas que enfrentaba Barnaby, que son el día a día de muchas personas en esta época. Sin embargo, me pareció un poco forzado la forma como logró "salvar" la propiedad, y el uso de los poderes de Cosmo.
Pero, es un libro digno de la época navideña, cuando terminas de leer la historia, solo queda una sonrisa en tu rostro, y eso es lo mejor que uno puede tener en esta época. Así que si, es una de los autores que leo de vez en cuando y nunca me han decepcionado, siempre tiene personajes dulces e historias llenas de romance y amor, por supuesto seguiré leyendo otros de sus libros.
i-m-a-quitter
December 27, 2021Wasn't able to make it past the first chapter. Just didn't grab my attention.
December 29, 2021
Cute, fluffy, magical. I liked it. It was a bit toooo fluffy for me to love it, but I did enjoy the story in all its mystical-magical glory.
March 27, 2023
3.5 stars
Would have been higher if we had Cosmo’s pov. It was told in Barnaby’s pov the whole time which was fine haha.
Overall this was a cute, low angst, holiday read. I enjoyed it and probably would have enjoyed it more toward the holiday season.. but I still enjoyed it just as much now! Haha
Would have been higher if we had Cosmo’s pov. It was told in Barnaby’s pov the whole time which was fine haha.
Overall this was a cute, low angst, holiday read. I enjoyed it and probably would have enjoyed it more toward the holiday season.. but I still enjoyed it just as much now! Haha
December 30, 2021
I'd been a bit sad that none of the holiday stories I'd read so far this year had really grabbed me and filled me with that joy for the season and the mixed reviews for this one had me hesitant, but this is the story that did it! (And it's a far cry from my last year's favorite about a murderous Santa!)
This is a fantasy of a statue come to life thanks to holiday magic and who not only helps to save the day, but helps Lord Barnaby Greenwood break out of the grief and despair he has been living with since the death of his father. Cosmo has known Barnaby all his life as Barnaby's favorite statue, where he would come and talk about his day, his problems and his wishes.
Cosmo is a joy!! He has vast knowledge from seeing and hearing things in the house since he was made, but his wonder at experiencing everything else is heartwarming. A bit of naivete combined with his knowledge had me smiling every time and his love for and devotion to Barnaby's happiness just grabbed me. I even shed a few tears.
There is a bit of outside drama regarding finances and the potential loss of the Estate and the sacred wood, as well as the limited time Cosmo has as a human, but of course, all is well in the end. This is not high fantasy, but the little world that is built around the grounds of the house was just perfect to add that magical touch to the story. I adored it and will be adding it to my yearly holiday re-reads. My only minor quibble was that all the chapter headings listed "Barnaby" as it was told from his POV, but it had me thinking that at the end we would get something from Cosmo's, yet we didn't, although his personality shone through so it was no detriment to the story.
This is a fantasy of a statue come to life thanks to holiday magic and who not only helps to save the day, but helps Lord Barnaby Greenwood break out of the grief and despair he has been living with since the death of his father. Cosmo has known Barnaby all his life as Barnaby's favorite statue, where he would come and talk about his day, his problems and his wishes.
Cosmo is a joy!! He has vast knowledge from seeing and hearing things in the house since he was made, but his wonder at experiencing everything else is heartwarming. A bit of naivete combined with his knowledge had me smiling every time and his love for and devotion to Barnaby's happiness just grabbed me. I even shed a few tears.
There is a bit of outside drama regarding finances and the potential loss of the Estate and the sacred wood, as well as the limited time Cosmo has as a human, but of course, all is well in the end. This is not high fantasy, but the little world that is built around the grounds of the house was just perfect to add that magical touch to the story. I adored it and will be adding it to my yearly holiday re-reads. My only minor quibble was that all the chapter headings listed "Barnaby" as it was told from his POV, but it had me thinking that at the end we would get something from Cosmo's, yet we didn't, although his personality shone through so it was no detriment to the story.
December 27, 2021
I don't know if I'm fluffed-out or Mortoned- out, but - and it pains me to say it - I was bored. I liked the idea of a statue coming to life and falling in love with a human, but the characterisation was really thin (I don't feel I got to know anything about Barnaby apart from his financial woes) and Cosmo was like a walking deus ex machina with his ability to magically fix everything. Maybe I've read too much fluff lately, but this just didn't work for me. H.L. Day's Not So Silent Night was a LOT more fun
December 31, 2021
2.5 stars
June 7, 2025
As delightful as
Minced pies, mulled wine, and posh Brits
In love in the Wood.
Minced pies, mulled wine, and posh Brits
In love in the Wood.
December 15, 2021
OMG. READ THIS BOOK! I was enamored from the start with a gentleman falling in love with a statue. It was magical and endearing, and full of English Folklore, and it was everything.
If you're looking for a warm, surprising, magical treat, grab this book!
If you're looking for a warm, surprising, magical treat, grab this book!
December 22, 2021
I generally love Lily Morton, but this didn't quite work for me. I've read stories with a similar concept before, and I'm always here for fantasy/supernatural type concepts, but something about the approach here didn't quite jive. Maybe it's because I'm not used to reading that kind of content from this author, but it felt a little incongruous and I kept getting thrown out of the story with these new ~magical~ details that would suddenly surface and feel a bit jarring. The romance itself was a little saccharine for me, and IDK something about it didn't click. Cosmo never felt like a real person to me, because he isn't a real person, and fixing all of life's woes with magic just wasn't that satisfying to read about to be honest. Definitely one of my least favorite Morton books, though I DID appreciate that this felt quite different from her other books (which have started to feel a little samey) and that there wasn't an exhausting amount of banter.
December 22, 2021
On a Midnight Clear was the perfect Christmas book filled with magical beings, unexpected love and all the glorious, wonderful things we love about this time of the year.
This is magic, Barnaby Greenwood. It is the furthest thing from reality that can be.
I've read several reviews that say this book is not the worth the read because of the "false narrative" it gives or that the "magical elements don't seem real" and that is exactly why I am telling you to read this book. Not all stories have to make logical sense for them to be enjoyable. With the way COVID has been hitting the world the last couple of years being able to dive headfirst into a story like this is exactly what I needed. The Christmas Spirit was shrouded in every page of this story, the possibilities of love, and finally getting that exact something you have been dreaming for.
Cosmo was dreamy, in a way that only a mystical being can be, and Barnaby was every bit the average man you can see yourself in. Hoping for a better way, and not expecting anything extraordinary to happen but it does. Oh honey, it does!!
Lily Morton created a beautiful fairy tale unlike anything I have ever read before with the classic vibes we love of fairy tales past with a present-day spin that it makes it very relative. If she ever decides to create another story in this world, I will be the first one to read it.
This is magic, Barnaby Greenwood. It is the furthest thing from reality that can be.
I've read several reviews that say this book is not the worth the read because of the "false narrative" it gives or that the "magical elements don't seem real" and that is exactly why I am telling you to read this book. Not all stories have to make logical sense for them to be enjoyable. With the way COVID has been hitting the world the last couple of years being able to dive headfirst into a story like this is exactly what I needed. The Christmas Spirit was shrouded in every page of this story, the possibilities of love, and finally getting that exact something you have been dreaming for.
Cosmo was dreamy, in a way that only a mystical being can be, and Barnaby was every bit the average man you can see yourself in. Hoping for a better way, and not expecting anything extraordinary to happen but it does. Oh honey, it does!!
Lily Morton created a beautiful fairy tale unlike anything I have ever read before with the classic vibes we love of fairy tales past with a present-day spin that it makes it very relative. If she ever decides to create another story in this world, I will be the first one to read it.
December 20, 2021
DNF 21%. I find tame books boring...
December 22, 2021
The cover gives off a magical kind of feeling, and that's exactly what this story is about: magic.
Lily Morton is one of my favorite authors. Her books are always well written and her story's are always entertaining and enchanting.
This one is no different in that. The difference is the fact that this is a fairytale kind of story. One filled with magic and wonder and to me it was a refreshing take on the many seasonal story's that are written, released and read during this time of year. It gave me a very pure, Christmassy feeling!
The story is all about Cosmo - a statue that comes to life and uses his magic to make things right. It's because of him that Barnaby's troubles are...yes, magically solved. Barnaby is having financial problems and is on the verge to be forced to sell the only home he's ever known. It's even worse that the buyer is a real estate developer, who will tear the house down in order to built new houses and apartments. The house holds a lot of statues, all collected by his father (both his parents have passed away), and there's one statue in particular that Barnaby is very attached to - Cosmo. Being quite a loner as a teenager, he found some sort of comfort in telling Cosmo his troubles and thoughts. That's why this story doesn't feel like insta-love, even though the falling in love happens within only just a few days.
I loved the magic and the fantasy that came to life with this story, even if I'm usually one to prefer contemporary romance. But when I found out about this book, I just could not resist to request an ARC and I'm so glad I did. I had a very good time reading this, I enjoyed every bit of witnessing Cosmo and Barnaby falling in love. Of course there's a happy ever after, and it's sweet and endearing.
If you are in the mood for something different this holiday season, I recommend you give this book a try. I hope it leaves with the same warm blankety feeling as it left me. It was like sitting on my favorite couch, with my favorite soft and warm blanket and a beautiful book, having the sweetest hot chocolate.
Highly recommended!
I kindly received an ARC from GayRomanceReviews and these are my honest, unbiased thoughts
Lily Morton is one of my favorite authors. Her books are always well written and her story's are always entertaining and enchanting.
This one is no different in that. The difference is the fact that this is a fairytale kind of story. One filled with magic and wonder and to me it was a refreshing take on the many seasonal story's that are written, released and read during this time of year. It gave me a very pure, Christmassy feeling!
The story is all about Cosmo - a statue that comes to life and uses his magic to make things right. It's because of him that Barnaby's troubles are...yes, magically solved. Barnaby is having financial problems and is on the verge to be forced to sell the only home he's ever known. It's even worse that the buyer is a real estate developer, who will tear the house down in order to built new houses and apartments. The house holds a lot of statues, all collected by his father (both his parents have passed away), and there's one statue in particular that Barnaby is very attached to - Cosmo. Being quite a loner as a teenager, he found some sort of comfort in telling Cosmo his troubles and thoughts. That's why this story doesn't feel like insta-love, even though the falling in love happens within only just a few days.
I loved the magic and the fantasy that came to life with this story, even if I'm usually one to prefer contemporary romance. But when I found out about this book, I just could not resist to request an ARC and I'm so glad I did. I had a very good time reading this, I enjoyed every bit of witnessing Cosmo and Barnaby falling in love. Of course there's a happy ever after, and it's sweet and endearing.
If you are in the mood for something different this holiday season, I recommend you give this book a try. I hope it leaves with the same warm blankety feeling as it left me. It was like sitting on my favorite couch, with my favorite soft and warm blanket and a beautiful book, having the sweetest hot chocolate.
Highly recommended!
I kindly received an ARC from GayRomanceReviews and these are my honest, unbiased thoughts
December 23, 2021
Too fluffy for me. I need some angst, anger, jealousy, drama, miscommunication, aggression, even some gore. I probably would not have finished this if it was not Lily Morton. 3ish stars.
December 27, 2021
Magical, sweet, hot and funny. Exactly what I expect from Lily Morton. Great book to end my Christmas reads for this year.
December 22, 2021
Overall, a cute, sweet, fluffy holiday romance.
Ms. Morton puts a little magic in the holiday with this one, about the Lord of Greenwood, Barnaby, who is having money problems, and will most likely have to sell the estate that's been in his family for generations, to pay the bank all these debts he owes.
Then about a week before Christmas Eve, in the statue room of the estate, when Barnaby is talking to his favorite statute in the room, that depicts a man that would be naked if not for a strategically placed blanket, with a dog at his feet, he gets a visit from an old looking man, who he thinks is one of the few guests he gets these days who come to take a tour of the estate.
But it turns out to be a God of Winter, basically, and because Barnaby turned away a man wanting to buy the estate to tear it down and build houses for rich people, even with his money trouble, the god grants him a reward, basically.
Turns out the reward is Cosmo, in human form. The statue which is Barnaby's favorite, and who over the years, ever since he was a kid, has talked to the statue about his life.
Cosmo has been turned into a human for 5 days, and when the clock strikes 12 on midnight on Christmas day, he is supposed to turn back into a statue. So these two have 5 days together.
It is quick, but this is just a fairly quick, fun holiday read, so it didn't have to be long time for these two to fall in love.
I did like these two together, they were very sweet and adorable together. I know Cosmo wasn't human, so of course he wasn't going to behave like one, but I do wish he hadn't almost perfect almost all the time. He had a few moments of sadness, because of how little time he had with Barnaby and all that, but otherwise he was just constantly happy and carefree and happy-go-lucky.
Which is fine, I love characters like that. I just wish, even though he wasn't human, that being in human form would make him have a few more human moments. I guess I just wanted him to feel a little more grounded. Which might not be fair as he really wasn't human, he was a statue first, but...I don't know, I kind of wanted him being in the human world to affect him and make him more human. Kind of like Giselle in Enchanted, if you guys have ever seen it.
She is very positive, sees the good in everything, always happy and sweet, but eventually after just a few days she feels anger, and she starts to act more human. Still a kind, sweet person, but more grounded. To where her choosing to stay in the real world makes sense, and she fits in it. I kind of wanted that for Cosmo.
Now, he was still very sweet and adorable and sexy, and I enjoyed him and Barnaby together. I just wanted that Giselle-type story arc for him.
But he stayed pretty much the same over these days, which was just a little disappointing for me.
Also at times this was feeling a tad slow. I wish the pace could have picked up a bit, especially as this was only taking place over 5 days.
I didn't mind how easy things worked at the end, because this is after all supposed to be a fun, fluffy holiday read, and Barnaby too was so kind and sweet that he deserved that happiness, but I do admit that things were wrapped up too easily. Barnaby barely has to go through pain before he gets his HEA. Which again, is not too big a deal for a holiday read, but I was kind hoping for maybe a chapter of it, maybe getting Cosmo's POV as a statue, maybe, before the God of Winter turned him back or something.
Which, another small thing, I am bummed we never got Cosmo's POV. I don't know why each chapter had Barnaby's name to indicate it was his POV if we never got Cosmo's? If it was all Barnaby's POV, then I don't think his name was needed at the top of each chapter. I kept expecting one of the chapters to be from Cosmo's POV and was bummed we didn't get that.
But overall, this was a fun, light holiday read about two kind, sweet men who find love with each other, and get a little holiday cheer at the end of it, and a solid HEA.
I definitely recommend it if you're in the mood for a Christmas story that has a fun plot and no angst, just basically pure fluff, with a sweet romance at the center of it.
Ms. Morton puts a little magic in the holiday with this one, about the Lord of Greenwood, Barnaby, who is having money problems, and will most likely have to sell the estate that's been in his family for generations, to pay the bank all these debts he owes.
Then about a week before Christmas Eve, in the statue room of the estate, when Barnaby is talking to his favorite statute in the room, that depicts a man that would be naked if not for a strategically placed blanket, with a dog at his feet, he gets a visit from an old looking man, who he thinks is one of the few guests he gets these days who come to take a tour of the estate.
But it turns out to be a God of Winter, basically, and because Barnaby turned away a man wanting to buy the estate to tear it down and build houses for rich people, even with his money trouble, the god grants him a reward, basically.
Turns out the reward is Cosmo, in human form. The statue which is Barnaby's favorite, and who over the years, ever since he was a kid, has talked to the statue about his life.
Cosmo has been turned into a human for 5 days, and when the clock strikes 12 on midnight on Christmas day, he is supposed to turn back into a statue. So these two have 5 days together.
It is quick, but this is just a fairly quick, fun holiday read, so it didn't have to be long time for these two to fall in love.
I did like these two together, they were very sweet and adorable together. I know Cosmo wasn't human, so of course he wasn't going to behave like one, but I do wish he hadn't almost perfect almost all the time. He had a few moments of sadness, because of how little time he had with Barnaby and all that, but otherwise he was just constantly happy and carefree and happy-go-lucky.
Which is fine, I love characters like that. I just wish, even though he wasn't human, that being in human form would make him have a few more human moments. I guess I just wanted him to feel a little more grounded. Which might not be fair as he really wasn't human, he was a statue first, but...I don't know, I kind of wanted him being in the human world to affect him and make him more human. Kind of like Giselle in Enchanted, if you guys have ever seen it.
She is very positive, sees the good in everything, always happy and sweet, but eventually after just a few days she feels anger, and she starts to act more human. Still a kind, sweet person, but more grounded. To where her choosing to stay in the real world makes sense, and she fits in it. I kind of wanted that for Cosmo.
Now, he was still very sweet and adorable and sexy, and I enjoyed him and Barnaby together. I just wanted that Giselle-type story arc for him.
But he stayed pretty much the same over these days, which was just a little disappointing for me.
Also at times this was feeling a tad slow. I wish the pace could have picked up a bit, especially as this was only taking place over 5 days.
I didn't mind how easy things worked at the end, because this is after all supposed to be a fun, fluffy holiday read, and Barnaby too was so kind and sweet that he deserved that happiness, but I do admit that things were wrapped up too easily. Barnaby barely has to go through pain before he gets his HEA. Which again, is not too big a deal for a holiday read, but I was kind hoping for maybe a chapter of it, maybe getting Cosmo's POV as a statue, maybe, before the God of Winter turned him back or something.
Which, another small thing, I am bummed we never got Cosmo's POV. I don't know why each chapter had Barnaby's name to indicate it was his POV if we never got Cosmo's? If it was all Barnaby's POV, then I don't think his name was needed at the top of each chapter. I kept expecting one of the chapters to be from Cosmo's POV and was bummed we didn't get that.
But overall, this was a fun, light holiday read about two kind, sweet men who find love with each other, and get a little holiday cheer at the end of it, and a solid HEA.
I definitely recommend it if you're in the mood for a Christmas story that has a fun plot and no angst, just basically pure fluff, with a sweet romance at the center of it.
December 5, 2022
I think this might be my favorite Christmas read ever. I can see it being one that I re-read each Christmas. It had everything I could want in a Christmas story--magic, Scrooge-like hearts warming, bells ringing, Christmas miracles and a sweet, fairy tale-like romance. It really captures the joy and magic of Christmas in a way that other contemporary holiday romances that I've read haven't. Both Lily Morton's holiday stories have been winners for me this season. I hope she does another one soon.
January 8, 2022
This is my new favourite Christmas read. This was so sweet! I adored both the MCs. This is like a sweet, grown up fairy tale.
I'm reading this every single Christmas!!!!
I'm reading this every single Christmas!!!!
December 28, 2021
I'm the outlier. This book was SO sweet, and I'm sure if someone is looking for a dose of happy, this might be perfect. But the last few Morton books I've read, I've found myself skimming in multiple areas where it felt either over descriptive or the pace dragged. Add on the fact that I just couldn't really get a whole sense of either character, it just left me with this was just OK.
This is a magical story, and the actual magic bits I loved. If those areas had been explored, I think I would have been satisfied. The King of Holly, the statues coming alive for an hour, etc. However, as sweet as Barnaby is, I don't really know much about him other than financial woes and him shutting out friends who might try and help him. Cosmo is well...not actually human for the majority of the story, and we don't really see him falling in love with Barnaby. Just told it, so I didn't really feel this deep love between the two. Another peeve of mine is when grown adults read super childlike especially in sexual moments. It's a fine line of innocence and exploration and the other. Cosmo at all times read childlike to me, and Barnaby did at times too. I liked both of them; I just didn't feel anything for them and their romance.
This is a magical story, and the actual magic bits I loved. If those areas had been explored, I think I would have been satisfied. The King of Holly, the statues coming alive for an hour, etc. However, as sweet as Barnaby is, I don't really know much about him other than financial woes and him shutting out friends who might try and help him. Cosmo is well...not actually human for the majority of the story, and we don't really see him falling in love with Barnaby. Just told it, so I didn't really feel this deep love between the two. Another peeve of mine is when grown adults read super childlike especially in sexual moments. It's a fine line of innocence and exploration and the other. Cosmo at all times read childlike to me, and Barnaby did at times too. I liked both of them; I just didn't feel anything for them and their romance.
December 19, 2021
A lovely little fairytale of a Christmas story… Lily Morton’s books always paint gorgeous pictures of the setting and this is no different. I found myself transported from the dreary gray reality to… a dreary gray reality of a good man with a seemingly hopeless tough row to hoe. Until. Until!
I loved it. Is this book some realistic fiction? Of course not. It isn’t supposed to be. Enjoy the flight of fancy and tiny break from reality.
I loved it. Is this book some realistic fiction? Of course not. It isn’t supposed to be. Enjoy the flight of fancy and tiny break from reality.
December 23, 2021
Truth? I didn't love this... I'm not sure I even liked it but since it is Lily Morton I'm going with 3 stars instead of the 2 I feel are closer to how I felt reading this.
For a magical, feel good Christmas story it totally missed on the magical, I barely felt the chemistry between Barnaby and Cosmo, the feel good Christmas part was plain boring, so much so it took me 4 days and a lot of effort from my part to make myself finish this. Sorry ><
For a magical, feel good Christmas story it totally missed on the magical, I barely felt the chemistry between Barnaby and Cosmo, the feel good Christmas part was plain boring, so much so it took me 4 days and a lot of effort from my part to make myself finish this. Sorry ><
December 19, 2021
Magical
Oh my, how I love Barnaby, Cosmo, and this completely magical and enchanting world Lily Morton built. She took all of my most fantastic, most wonderful dreams and brought them to life. This book is full of wonder, joy, magic—it can’t be said enough—and a love so special it’s extraordinary. “I would have fallen in love with you if we only had a second.” Picture little flying cupids, hearts and stars all around my head as I write this, I am full on bells in love with Cosmo and Barnaby and will treasure every perfect moment I shared with them. I wish there were many, many more to come as I just don’t want to let them go. Perhaps someone will grant me a boon. An amazing and fabulously magical Christmas romance.
Oh my, how I love Barnaby, Cosmo, and this completely magical and enchanting world Lily Morton built. She took all of my most fantastic, most wonderful dreams and brought them to life. This book is full of wonder, joy, magic—it can’t be said enough—and a love so special it’s extraordinary. “I would have fallen in love with you if we only had a second.” Picture little flying cupids, hearts and stars all around my head as I write this, I am full on bells in love with Cosmo and Barnaby and will treasure every perfect moment I shared with them. I wish there were many, many more to come as I just don’t want to let them go. Perhaps someone will grant me a boon. An amazing and fabulously magical Christmas romance.
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