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Pinewood Lodge
A desire too strong to ignore. A love too taboo to acknowledge.
Hunter and Simon are married. But not to each other.
Ten years ago, one kiss led to a second, then a third, and turned into a summer of forbidden discovery. But sometimes, love isn’t enough, especially when that love has the power to destroy the life Hunter and Simon have built as stepfather and son.
Forced together at Pinewood Lodge for the Holidays, Hunter and Simon are drawn to one another again and again, unable to deny themselves a stolen moment despite the threat of discovery.
Is the risk worth the reward? Maybe. Maybe not. But when the reward is more satisfying than the guilt is uncomfortable, stopping feels impossible.
Pinewood Lodge is a high heat, low angst, 35K Christmas novel featuring a taboo, age gap relationship between two helplessly in love idiots who are willing to burn their lives down in order to be together, a tiny hot tub, and a cozy library perfect for secret rendezvous.
Hunter and Simon are married. But not to each other.
Ten years ago, one kiss led to a second, then a third, and turned into a summer of forbidden discovery. But sometimes, love isn’t enough, especially when that love has the power to destroy the life Hunter and Simon have built as stepfather and son.
Forced together at Pinewood Lodge for the Holidays, Hunter and Simon are drawn to one another again and again, unable to deny themselves a stolen moment despite the threat of discovery.
Is the risk worth the reward? Maybe. Maybe not. But when the reward is more satisfying than the guilt is uncomfortable, stopping feels impossible.
Pinewood Lodge is a high heat, low angst, 35K Christmas novel featuring a taboo, age gap relationship between two helplessly in love idiots who are willing to burn their lives down in order to be together, a tiny hot tub, and a cozy library perfect for secret rendezvous.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2022
30 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
About the author
Odessa Hywell
30 books401 followersOdessa Hywell is a taboo MM romance author with a book addiction and coffee problem, who lives in the Southern United States with her husband, their teenage daughter, who mocks her for being short, and way too many animals.
Aside from writing and reading, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and playing video games.
Her favorite season is winter—hello, snow—but in the summer, she travels as much as possible.
Some of her favorite spots are The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, Dead Horse Point, Moab UT, Gatlinburg TN, Helen GA, Silverton CO, Roswell, NM—plus honestly, a lot more. The list is nearly endless.
A few places she plans to go in the future are New Orleans, LA and Salem, MA during spooky season, Smuggler's Notch, VT during autumn, the Colorado Mountains during the winter, New York City, Washington DC, a cruise to anywhere, on a hot air balloon ride, on a train trip down the California Coast . . .
In 2021, she decided because she is married to a twin it was best NOT to publish her books featuring twincest and other questionable themes under her married name as her husband would not approve.
—His loss, honestly.—
If you know who Odessa Hywell is, don’t be a snitch.
Like Benjamin Franklin said, “Three may keep a secret if two of them are dead.”
www.odessahywell.com/shop
➡︎ Signed paperbacks, artwork, and stickers can be purchased from my website.
➡︎ Direct Download eBooks can also be purchased from my website.
Aside from writing and reading, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and playing video games.
Her favorite season is winter—hello, snow—but in the summer, she travels as much as possible.
Some of her favorite spots are The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, Dead Horse Point, Moab UT, Gatlinburg TN, Helen GA, Silverton CO, Roswell, NM—plus honestly, a lot more. The list is nearly endless.
A few places she plans to go in the future are New Orleans, LA and Salem, MA during spooky season, Smuggler's Notch, VT during autumn, the Colorado Mountains during the winter, New York City, Washington DC, a cruise to anywhere, on a hot air balloon ride, on a train trip down the California Coast . . .
In 2021, she decided because she is married to a twin it was best NOT to publish her books featuring twincest and other questionable themes under her married name as her husband would not approve.
—His loss, honestly.—
If you know who Odessa Hywell is, don’t be a snitch.
Like Benjamin Franklin said, “Three may keep a secret if two of them are dead.”
www.odessahywell.com/shop
➡︎ Signed paperbacks, artwork, and stickers can be purchased from my website.
➡︎ Direct Download eBooks can also be purchased from my website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
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July 12, 2023
"I love him with everything I am and I always will. How could I not? He’s perfect. And forbidden—like the apple in the Garden of Eden."
Pinewood Lodge was a sweet and short Stepfather/Stepson story.
We have Hunter (46), who has had an affair with his stepson Simon (30) for almost ten years. They are both married, and Simon has a child on the way. It’s the holidays as part of their family tradition everyone and the extended family are spending it together at Pinewood Lodge. Hunter and Simon can’t keep their secret hidden for long and want to be together. But they know that if their affair comes to light people important to them will be hurt and betrayed.
I really enjoyed this story! While not taboo, it’s definitely on the forbidden side. Hunter and Simon truly do love one another, but Hunter at least should have divorced Simon’s mother as soon as he knew. It sucked that she ended up being hurt and a whole child got involved.
The story starts out with them already together in secret and in love. We get a few hints in the story of their past and how they got together, but it is mainly focused on the present. I would have loved to have seen how their relationship started and grew over those ten years in depth.
As with all of Odessa’s stories, this one was also steamy and sweet. I’m also curious about Gideon - Hunter’s brother - and his ex-stepson Sinclair. I would like to read their story as well. I loved all that codependency and touching between them.
Overall I really enjoyed Pinewood Lodge! It was messy but a sweet holiday read in July!
Pinewood Lodge was a sweet and short Stepfather/Stepson story.
We have Hunter (46), who has had an affair with his stepson Simon (30) for almost ten years. They are both married, and Simon has a child on the way. It’s the holidays as part of their family tradition everyone and the extended family are spending it together at Pinewood Lodge. Hunter and Simon can’t keep their secret hidden for long and want to be together. But they know that if their affair comes to light people important to them will be hurt and betrayed.
I really enjoyed this story! While not taboo, it’s definitely on the forbidden side. Hunter and Simon truly do love one another, but Hunter at least should have divorced Simon’s mother as soon as he knew. It sucked that she ended up being hurt and a whole child got involved.
The story starts out with them already together in secret and in love. We get a few hints in the story of their past and how they got together, but it is mainly focused on the present. I would have loved to have seen how their relationship started and grew over those ten years in depth.
As with all of Odessa’s stories, this one was also steamy and sweet. I’m also curious about Gideon - Hunter’s brother - and his ex-stepson Sinclair. I would like to read their story as well. I loved all that codependency and touching between them.
Overall I really enjoyed Pinewood Lodge! It was messy but a sweet holiday read in July!
December 20, 2024
Odessa Hywell is one of my favorite authors. Anything that is kinky or smutty, and wonderfully perfectly written to boot, comes from this pen ... unfortunately this book was pretty bad for my taste.
It's great writing, but at the same time insanely repetitive, and when I start skipping sex scenes, it's because they bored me to death.
It's also really not because of the “plot”, it was clear that it involved taboo and cheating and I really don't have a problem with that at all. However, the characters are so not endearing. I didn't like them at all and basing everything on their insurmountable attraction to each other makes the story super implausible. Yes, it's a book, it doesn't have to be believable, but I just didn't buy their guilty conscience.
The only good character in this story is Tess, and the two stars are for her, otherwise it would be a flat zero. And this is coming from me, I've disliked female characters for years and try to ignore them in every book, but here I was actually pleased every time Tess was in the scene.
I instantly have to read something completely different to get rid of the bad taste. 🥴
It's great writing, but at the same time insanely repetitive, and when I start skipping sex scenes, it's because they bored me to death.
It's also really not because of the “plot”, it was clear that it involved taboo and cheating and I really don't have a problem with that at all. However, the characters are so not endearing. I didn't like them at all and basing everything on their insurmountable attraction to each other makes the story super implausible. Yes, it's a book, it doesn't have to be believable, but I just didn't buy their guilty conscience.
The only good character in this story is Tess, and the two stars are for her, otherwise it would be a flat zero. And this is coming from me, I've disliked female characters for years and try to ignore them in every book, but here I was actually pleased every time Tess was in the scene.
I instantly have to read something completely different to get rid of the bad taste. 🥴
November 7, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was so so so cute. With it being a stepson/stepfather, and there being cheating (not between the MCs), I was fully expecting more angst and heartbreak. But there was none of that. I wish we would have gotten some painful moments because I thrive off of those, but honestly this is the perfect thing to read if you're looking for something relatively short with hot smut and Christmas vibes.
Also Tessa? She's a champion and I may be in love with her a little bit.
This book will be available on Amazon, so I highly recommend picking it up once it releases!
This was so so so cute. With it being a stepson/stepfather, and there being cheating (not between the MCs), I was fully expecting more angst and heartbreak. But there was none of that. I wish we would have gotten some painful moments because I thrive off of those, but honestly this is the perfect thing to read if you're looking for something relatively short with hot smut and Christmas vibes.
Also Tessa? She's a champion and I may be in love with her a little bit.
This book will be available on Amazon, so I highly recommend picking it up once it releases!
December 11, 2022
This was deliciously dirty. More sex than plot, but I will NEVA complain.
Hunter and Simon are head-over-heals in love, but the one problem is they’re both married to their wives. Scandalous! Hunter is also Simon’s stepfather. Double whammy. They’ve kept their affair going for 10 years because they don’t want to destroy their lives, but they love each other too much to quit. Should I be swooning? I am. Don’t judge me. Don’t read this if you aren’t cool with cheating or if you don’t like things of the taboo nature.
I had a good time reading this short story. I honestly wouldn’t have minded if it were longer and included flash backs to how they got started. It’s a gay-for-you story, and those are my kryptonite. I loved a lot of the characters in this story, especially Simon’s wife Tessa. I am also curious if the author is going to write any stories for some of the characters in this book. I know I’ll read it. I’m gonna have to check out more of her taboo stuff.
I want pickles now after reading this. That probably sounds dirty doesn’t it? Read the book, and you will see why I said that MWUAHAHAHAHAHAH. Sorry that was too much. Anyway. Peace, love, and secret rendezvous. xoxoxoxoxo
Hunter and Simon are head-over-heals in love, but the one problem is they’re both married to their wives. Scandalous! Hunter is also Simon’s stepfather. Double whammy. They’ve kept their affair going for 10 years because they don’t want to destroy their lives, but they love each other too much to quit. Should I be swooning? I am. Don’t judge me. Don’t read this if you aren’t cool with cheating or if you don’t like things of the taboo nature.
I had a good time reading this short story. I honestly wouldn’t have minded if it were longer and included flash backs to how they got started. It’s a gay-for-you story, and those are my kryptonite. I loved a lot of the characters in this story, especially Simon’s wife Tessa. I am also curious if the author is going to write any stories for some of the characters in this book. I know I’ll read it. I’m gonna have to check out more of her taboo stuff.
I want pickles now after reading this. That probably sounds dirty doesn’t it? Read the book, and you will see why I said that MWUAHAHAHAHAHAH. Sorry that was too much. Anyway. Peace, love, and secret rendezvous. xoxoxoxoxo
December 18, 2023
2.5 stars
This whole book left me wanting more. Or less? I don't know, different? I'm not sure Odessa Hywell's writing style works for me...(I just bought another 3 books by this author in the Smashwords sale, I am cursing myself right now).
I honestly didn't find the sex particularly special. Was it supposed to be hot and taboo? I found it kind of boring tbh.
Cheating on your wife with your stepson for 10 years...that's a really long time. It didn't feel dirty or subversive, it just felt cruel.
Tessa was the best character in this whole book, though she sure took the out on being a mum quickly. Having a baby just because your partner wants to does not seem like a good idea to me but I'm sure people do it all the time.
I was much more intrigued by Gideon and Sinclair and would probably read their book (damn it).
Tags: stepfather/stepson, age gap, cheating on others, forced proximity, cabin in the woods, lavender marriage
This whole book left me wanting more. Or less? I don't know, different? I'm not sure Odessa Hywell's writing style works for me...(I just bought another 3 books by this author in the Smashwords sale, I am cursing myself right now).
I honestly didn't find the sex particularly special. Was it supposed to be hot and taboo? I found it kind of boring tbh.
Cheating on your wife with your stepson for 10 years...that's a really long time. It didn't feel dirty or subversive, it just felt cruel.
Tessa was the best character in this whole book, though she sure took the out on being a mum quickly. Having a baby just because your partner wants to does not seem like a good idea to me but I'm sure people do it all the time.
I was much more intrigued by Gideon and Sinclair and would probably read their book (damn it).
Tags: stepfather/stepson, age gap, cheating on others, forced proximity, cabin in the woods, lavender marriage
June 14, 2024
The only reason I'm bumping this up to 2.5⭐ is for Gideon and Sinclair that were the side characters here and completely outshined the main characters.
🔴 Somewhat taboo - stepfather/stepson (living together since they were 14/30)
🔵 Both MMCs are married, so cheating (for a decade)
🟣 Neither is closeted or wants to be with other guys, so double GFY
🌶️ A lot of descriptive sex, but considering the story it wasn't really working for me, but it's good, won't lie; both vers
Hunter and Simon are stepdad and stepson and have been somewhat related since Hunter was a father figure to Simon for 16 years.
They got involved when Simon came back from college at 20 years old and wanted to be with Hunter, but Hunter refused to leave his wife - Simon's mom. The story doesn't start at the beginning but 16 years later and offers a few snippets from the past, so that wasn't working for me - at all.
The thing is that Simon hasn't really been with anyone else for a decade. He was heartbroken about Hunter not breaking up with his mom and being with him, but he's got his bestie who's a woman and is currently married to her, but they don't have a romantic relationship and they did IVF, so they're expecting a baby. So Simon is very much alone and waiting for Hunter, so to speak.
"In thirty years of existence, I’ve never looked at another man the way I look at Hunter. I don’t see that changing. And I know it’s the same for him. Before me, Hunter never entertained the idea of sleeping with a man. Look at us now—a regular pair of cock suckers."
But Hunter's in no rush to get divorced or anything and nothing would've happened if Simon's wife hadn't caught them.
So, this is a decade long torture for Simon who's going to be a father and is participating in this fiasco where he knows he's got a lot to lose in the end.
Is it worth it? I don't know. I kinda think Hunter's for the streets. Hunter's saying that his cheating is just an unpleasant side effect of loving Simon.
Anyway, they get together in Pinewood Lodge every Christmas break because Hunter's apparently loaded, and this time around they decide to tell their wives everything and come New Year's these guys are already officially together.
No, I wasn't particularly excited about it because first, I felt bad for Simon, he's wasted his youth for an older guy who's personality trait is cheating on Simon's mom and secondly, he never was with anyone else, so no other experiences, no dates, no crazy sex, nothing.
It was pathetic and sad.
Not really enthusiastic about this couple.
I am enthusiastic about Gideon and Sinclair, though. Also a stepdad and stepson who clearly are together.
"Like Hunter, Gideon’s tall and built—the kind of guy who could pick you up, flip you over and suck your dick while you return the favor without breaking a sweat."
Where's their story???
June 21, 2024
Nope. This isn't working and the stepdad/stepson is my least problem 🙄
December 15, 2022
Warnings:
- cheating;
- age gap 16 years;
- stepfather/stepson relationship;
- erotica (way too much hanky-panky);
- present tense narrative with two POVs.
This is not usually my scene, but I got sucked in by the pretty cover and my own curiosity - how are the MCs going to untangle themselves from this mess?
Update: I ended up loving this short novella (which I made even shorter by skipping the hanky-panky, so if it's 5 stars, or 2, or 4 I have no idea).
And the cover! 💕I love 💕 everything 💕about 💕 it! 💕
Thank, my Secret Santa, for this Christmas gift! 😍
- cheating;
- age gap 16 years;
- stepfather/stepson relationship;
- erotica (way too much hanky-panky);
- present tense narrative with two POVs.
This is not usually my scene, but I got sucked in by the pretty cover and my own curiosity - how are the MCs going to untangle themselves from this mess?
Update: I ended up loving this short novella (which I made even shorter by skipping the hanky-panky, so if it's 5 stars, or 2, or 4 I have no idea).
And the cover! 💕I love 💕 everything 💕about 💕 it! 💕
Thank, my Secret Santa, for this Christmas gift! 😍
December 25, 2025
nothing says happy holidays like reading a stepfather/stepson romance while enduring a family christmas party.
May 4, 2023
Solid read, even though some of the humor made me cringe 😬 I’m obsessed with Tessa 😍😍 can me and her just ride away into the sunset together?
October 28, 2022
"He is mine, has been for years and will continue to be mine long after we've paid for our sins."
Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
Odessa is the best at writing taboo, and well, we all know I love a good taboo tale! Full of spice, holiday cheer, and surprisingly low angst given the situation, Pinewood Lodge was a sweet novella about a stepfather and stepson who have been unable to resist each other for the previous 10 years, despite being married (not to each other). This book drew me in completely and had me enthralled the entire time, leaving me feeling warm and cheerful! The two MC's were so genuine and loving and I couldn't resist rooting for their happy ending. And not to mention the side character in Tessa, Simon's wife? She was amazing and completely not what I was expecting!
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Stepfather/Stepson
❣️ Forced Proximity
❣️ Holiday Fun
❣️ Semi Public Scenes
❣️ HEA
Star Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
POV: Dual
HEA: Yes
Spice Rating: 4/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review
Overall Opinion
Odessa is the best at writing taboo, and well, we all know I love a good taboo tale! Full of spice, holiday cheer, and surprisingly low angst given the situation, Pinewood Lodge was a sweet novella about a stepfather and stepson who have been unable to resist each other for the previous 10 years, despite being married (not to each other). This book drew me in completely and had me enthralled the entire time, leaving me feeling warm and cheerful! The two MC's were so genuine and loving and I couldn't resist rooting for their happy ending. And not to mention the side character in Tessa, Simon's wife? She was amazing and completely not what I was expecting!
Read if you like:
❣️ M/M Romance
❣️ Stepfather/Stepson
❣️ Forced Proximity
❣️ Holiday Fun
❣️ Semi Public Scenes
❣️ HEA
July 26, 2024
I loved this, I was curious about it for a while and I'm so glad I read it.
The forbiddeness of this and the morals we had to ignore, I liked it.
Hunter and Simon have been in this secret relationship for 10 years, and when Simon's wife caughts them (they are not romantically envolved, just best friends) they decided to tell Simon's mother (Hunter's wife) about them.
I would have loved to see the whole scene of Hunter telling her but we got very few snippets so it was enough.
They loved each other so much but were afraid to hurt other people. But finally they pull the plug and lived HEA
I need Gideon and Sinclair to have a book too
The forbiddeness of this and the morals we had to ignore, I liked it.
Hunter and Simon have been in this secret relationship for 10 years, and when Simon's wife caughts them (they are not romantically envolved, just best friends) they decided to tell Simon's mother (Hunter's wife) about them.
I would have loved to see the whole scene of Hunter telling her but we got very few snippets so it was enough.
They loved each other so much but were afraid to hurt other people. But finally they pull the plug and lived HEA
I need Gideon and Sinclair to have a book too
October 3, 2022
This book grabs you from the first chapter and won't let you put it down until the last page. Steamy all the way through. Whew! It's hot, and so so bad, in all the best ways. Thank you Odessa for giving me this story. I have to have Gideon and Sinclair's story next!
November 18, 2022
5/5. Highlights may contain spoilers. Read at your own risk.
Content Warnings for book: Cheating (not between MCs), pregnancy
Kink: D/s vibes, rough sex
Pinewood Lodge is a very hot, pine-filled step-relation romance. It has cheating on spouses, secret hookups, and a wealth of emotions shared between the characters. Despite all those warnings, it is surprisingly low angst.
It's Christmas time for the family and everyone is gathered with their family. Simon, the stepson, is with his wife who is actually asexual and aromantic. While she is pregnant through IVF with his child, it is a child of platonic love. Then you have the marriage between Hunter and Simon's mother - which yes, was a marriage of love until he started to gain feelings for Simon and his romantic ones for his mother had faded. This sets the stage of a taboo, forbidden romance under hidden looks over the years.
Over this holiday in the cabins, secrets come to the light. There is pain and there is hurtful truths. However, there is also support and a HEA for our couple in all of the "traditional" ways. I can't say much more without spoiling even further, but I highly recommend this book!
Content Warnings for book: Cheating (not between MCs), pregnancy
Kink: D/s vibes, rough sex
Pinewood Lodge is a very hot, pine-filled step-relation romance. It has cheating on spouses, secret hookups, and a wealth of emotions shared between the characters. Despite all those warnings, it is surprisingly low angst.
It's Christmas time for the family and everyone is gathered with their family. Simon, the stepson, is with his wife who is actually asexual and aromantic. While she is pregnant through IVF with his child, it is a child of platonic love. Then you have the marriage between Hunter and Simon's mother - which yes, was a marriage of love until he started to gain feelings for Simon and his romantic ones for his mother had faded. This sets the stage of a taboo, forbidden romance under hidden looks over the years.
Over this holiday in the cabins, secrets come to the light. There is pain and there is hurtful truths. However, there is also support and a HEA for our couple in all of the "traditional" ways. I can't say much more without spoiling even further, but I highly recommend this book!
November 23, 2022
Tags: mild taboo (stepfather / stepson), family gathering for christmas, existing relationship, cheating
After reading the blurb, I expected this to be wayy angstier than it was. As is much of the true angst and drama was in the MC's heads, or happened offpage. Simon (the stepson)'s wife was one of my favorite characters and as she and Simon have a platonic marriage, it made the whole thing easier to stomach for me.
I appreciated that we jumped right into their existing relationship, and skipped the awkward starting out stages. Their little acts of affection and love were so endearing, and having already been together (and hiding) for ten years made the final HEA so much sweeter.
After reading the blurb, I expected this to be wayy angstier than it was. As is much of the true angst and drama was in the MC's heads, or happened offpage. Simon (the stepson)'s wife was one of my favorite characters and as she and Simon have a platonic marriage, it made the whole thing easier to stomach for me.
I appreciated that we jumped right into their existing relationship, and skipped the awkward starting out stages. Their little acts of affection and love were so endearing, and having already been together (and hiding) for ten years made the final HEA so much sweeter.
December 13, 2022
I was angry with Hunter, for not getting a divorce 9 years ago and then having a secret relationship. And I was appaled Simon brought a baby in the mix while knowing his life could fall apart every moment. Very irresponsable. But these are not qualities of the story. Every author is welcome to write flawed characters.
About the book:
Except one sentence where Hunter sums up three character traits that make him love Simon, it is unclear why they are in love. There are some very important things they did not talk about during 10 year. I think the author could have payed more attention to character developent and their relationship.
I did not enjoy every paragraph because I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and for that skimming to know what would happen next. You would expect drama at the beginning and the novel telling how everything got better. This is not that novel. Also, Sinclair's story is a loose end, unless there is going to be a part 2.
The writing was good and I look forward to more from this author. I give this 3 stars for now, but might give it 4 after rereading without skimming.
PS.
A cultural difference that always make me shake my head, is the behavior of pregrant women in US media. If you crave pickles and they are not in the house, you can get a sandwich. If you crave something and can't wait, you can perfectly well get in the car yourself. I don't understand pregnant women turning in misbehaving toddlers, demanding, commanding, without patience or self control, and their whole family running around and indulging her.
About the book:
Except one sentence where Hunter sums up three character traits that make him love Simon, it is unclear why they are in love. There are some very important things they did not talk about during 10 year. I think the author could have payed more attention to character developent and their relationship.
I did not enjoy every paragraph because I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and for that skimming to know what would happen next. You would expect drama at the beginning and the novel telling how everything got better. This is not that novel. Also, Sinclair's story is a loose end, unless there is going to be a part 2.
The writing was good and I look forward to more from this author. I give this 3 stars for now, but might give it 4 after rereading without skimming.
PS.
A cultural difference that always make me shake my head, is the behavior of pregrant women in US media. If you crave pickles and they are not in the house, you can get a sandwich. If you crave something and can't wait, you can perfectly well get in the car yourself. I don't understand pregnant women turning in misbehaving toddlers, demanding, commanding, without patience or self control, and their whole family running around and indulging her.
September 14, 2024
Steamy Novella
This is a steamy, taboo-lite (for Odessa) novella about a stepfather & stepson who can’t stay away from each other for 10 years.
For Simon’s attachments it’s a bit easier to navigate, but that’s only half the battle. If he and Hunter want to actually be happy they need to make some sacrifices.
This is a steamy, taboo-lite (for Odessa) novella about a stepfather & stepson who can’t stay away from each other for 10 years.
For Simon’s attachments it’s a bit easier to navigate, but that’s only half the battle. If he and Hunter want to actually be happy they need to make some sacrifices.
December 6, 2022
The good
+ Their complete openness and honesty with each other
+ Tessa. She was the best friend Simon could ever have wished for
+ Hunter planning to date and cuddle the shit out of Simon once he finally gets the chance
+ How they preemptively booked a hotel when going to town, just in case they'd get snowed in...
+
+ Tessa letting anyone get away with anything as long as they paid her with pickles
+ Hunter had actually acted as Simon's dad in the past, so this book is not pretending to be more taboo than it really is
The neutral
o I'll now forever think about this book when someone mentions pickles
The bad
- Hunter stayed with Cora for years, even though he wasn't in love with her anymore. It doesn't matter if he was in a relationship with his stepson or not, staying in a marriage like that is unfair to Cora regardless. He should have divorced her long ago
- Simon and Tessa apparently felt so pressured by family that they , just to get them off their backs. Those family members should be ashamed of themselves, and I wish I could have seen their reactions when they found out what their behavior had done
I don't like books with cheating. But reliable sources told me this book was really low angst and not to worry about it. So I read it, and I enjoyed it. The pull between these characters is obvious, and they're definitely the love of each other's life. I still think Tessa stole the show, but Simon and Hunter were a close second. I'd recommend this book if you want a low angst forbidden relationship where sex in an actual bed is something the MCs have never heard of.
+ Their complete openness and honesty with each other
+ Tessa. She was the best friend Simon could ever have wished for
+ Hunter planning to date and cuddle the shit out of Simon once he finally gets the chance
+ How they preemptively booked a hotel when going to town, just in case they'd get snowed in...
+
+ Tessa letting anyone get away with anything as long as they paid her with pickles
+ Hunter had actually acted as Simon's dad in the past, so this book is not pretending to be more taboo than it really is
The neutral
o I'll now forever think about this book when someone mentions pickles
The bad
- Hunter stayed with Cora for years, even though he wasn't in love with her anymore. It doesn't matter if he was in a relationship with his stepson or not, staying in a marriage like that is unfair to Cora regardless. He should have divorced her long ago
- Simon and Tessa apparently felt so pressured by family that they , just to get them off their backs. Those family members should be ashamed of themselves, and I wish I could have seen their reactions when they found out what their behavior had done
I don't like books with cheating. But reliable sources told me this book was really low angst and not to worry about it. So I read it, and I enjoyed it. The pull between these characters is obvious, and they're definitely the love of each other's life. I still think Tessa stole the show, but Simon and Hunter were a close second. I'd recommend this book if you want a low angst forbidden relationship where sex in an actual bed is something the MCs have never heard of.
March 8, 2026
2/5⭐, I had very mixed feelings about this book.
Let’s be honest: I’m always a fan of a taboo theme and some intense yearning. And yearning is definitely not something this book lacks. Hunter and Simon’s desire for each other knows no limits, and I was absolutely here for it. As a wise person once said: “A man who yearns, EARNS.”
However, I’m sad to admit that was pretty much everything I liked about this book. The rest just… didn’t really hold my interest.
The entire time I was reading, I felt like I had been thrown into the middle of a much more complex story - one where I had never read the beginning, and where there was still so much left unexplained. I understand that this is a short novel, so there isn’t much space to explore every detail, but I’ve read plenty of novellas before and none of them made me feel this lost.
Also, the wives’ reactions when they found out their husbands had secretly been involved with each other for ten years were just… honestly, what? That was it? I can somewhat understand Tessa’s perspective, but what about Carla? A ten-year affair filled with secrecy, taboo, and cheating is a much bigger deal than something that can be brushed over in a few sentences during one of Hunter’s flashbacks when he finally meets Simon again.
Even though this is a short read, I still caught myself forcing my way through it. Dropping a book that’s barely 170 pages long just felt like such a waste. I read the paperback version, and it’s already quite small with a large font size, so the story is probably even shorter than it appears. And even then, the book still managed to start boring me. :-)
As a filler read between longer books or series, I suppose… why not.
Let’s be honest: I’m always a fan of a taboo theme and some intense yearning. And yearning is definitely not something this book lacks. Hunter and Simon’s desire for each other knows no limits, and I was absolutely here for it. As a wise person once said: “A man who yearns, EARNS.”
However, I’m sad to admit that was pretty much everything I liked about this book. The rest just… didn’t really hold my interest.
The entire time I was reading, I felt like I had been thrown into the middle of a much more complex story - one where I had never read the beginning, and where there was still so much left unexplained. I understand that this is a short novel, so there isn’t much space to explore every detail, but I’ve read plenty of novellas before and none of them made me feel this lost.
Also, the wives’ reactions when they found out their husbands had secretly been involved with each other for ten years were just… honestly, what? That was it? I can somewhat understand Tessa’s perspective, but what about Carla? A ten-year affair filled with secrecy, taboo, and cheating is a much bigger deal than something that can be brushed over in a few sentences during one of Hunter’s flashbacks when he finally meets Simon again.
Even though this is a short read, I still caught myself forcing my way through it. Dropping a book that’s barely 170 pages long just felt like such a waste. I read the paperback version, and it’s already quite small with a large font size, so the story is probably even shorter than it appears. And even then, the book still managed to start boring me. :-)
As a filler read between longer books or series, I suppose… why not.
November 12, 2022
This is a fun little Christmas novella with some non-traditional twists. Hunter has been married for probably 20 years or so. When he married, he became a stepfather to Simon, who he helped raise. There was typical and appropriate childhood. When Simon was 20 years old, they spent some time working together, realized they were attracted, and spent 10 years in a secret off-and-on again affair. During that time, Simon married his best friend, who is now pregnant.
This story begins when Simon is 30 years old and the extended family is spending some holiday time together at the lodge. Stolen moments and late nights sneaking away are all they seem to have. Can these two ever find their own happiness when spilled secrets will change everything? For those who are triggered by cheating, be aware that there is a lot of it in this book, although the MCs do not cheat on each other. There are also a lot of sexy times and not a lot of other engaging storyline. It is a fun, light most of the time, and a quick holiday read full of passion and frustrated, but ultimately fulfilling love.
This story begins when Simon is 30 years old and the extended family is spending some holiday time together at the lodge. Stolen moments and late nights sneaking away are all they seem to have. Can these two ever find their own happiness when spilled secrets will change everything? For those who are triggered by cheating, be aware that there is a lot of it in this book, although the MCs do not cheat on each other. There are also a lot of sexy times and not a lot of other engaging storyline. It is a fun, light most of the time, and a quick holiday read full of passion and frustrated, but ultimately fulfilling love.
December 14, 2022
Want a very forbidden & filthy Christmas tale? This.. this is it!! It’s a novella, but it’s not that short. And phew boy I read it from beginning to end and didn’t stop for nothing.
Hunter and Simon are filthy smitten with each other, only problem is they are both married and Hunter is most definitely married to Simons mother. It’s scandalous 😍 they have been having an affair for 10 years but this Christmas it all comes to a head.
It’s family drama meets a filthy good time, with a perfect Christmas setting at the snowy pinewood lodge. I loved everything about it, and whilst it’s not a full length novel I was very much invested in all the characters.
The chemistry, the heartbreak, the long road they took to be together.. it’s all amazing so if you love the forbidden, grab it now.
Hunter and Simon are filthy smitten with each other, only problem is they are both married and Hunter is most definitely married to Simons mother. It’s scandalous 😍 they have been having an affair for 10 years but this Christmas it all comes to a head.
It’s family drama meets a filthy good time, with a perfect Christmas setting at the snowy pinewood lodge. I loved everything about it, and whilst it’s not a full length novel I was very much invested in all the characters.
The chemistry, the heartbreak, the long road they took to be together.. it’s all amazing so if you love the forbidden, grab it now.
November 7, 2022
Pinewood Lodge was my first time reading this author and it definitely won’t be my last!! Phenomenal story!! Hunter and Simon are both married to other people, but have been in love with each other for ten years. Hunter married Simon’s mother when he was a teenager. But when Simon is eighteen they begin a relationship that is on/off again. This was an amazing story!! I feel the love between Simon and Hunter!They were pure fire together, hot and steamy. Overall, a fantastic read!! Well written with addicting pacing that kept me engaged and flipping the pages, sooo freakin good!!
November 7, 2022
This was one, spicy hot book! Not that infidelity is ever alright, but these two were so in love, they could melt paint off the walls. It was painful to feel their need and desire for each other and feel there was no way to be together without someone suffering. I really didn't want it to end though. Hunter and Simon belonged to each other in ways a regular stepfather and stepson never would have. Simon's wife was an awesome woman. I don't want to give spoilers so just saying, I need a fan and a drink after reading this.
November 14, 2022
This was great. Super steamy and hot, which is quite the departure from my normal reads, but apparently I was in the mood for it because I enjoyed it a lot. The main characters, Hunter and Simon, were sweet together, with some angst coming from the fact that they're both married--but not to each other. Honestly, this was super enjoyable. A quick holiday read. Loved the ending!
November 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this Christmas novella. It was well written, had great smutty scenes and enough plot to keep me invested. Hunter and Simon are so sweet and I loved Tessa.
December 24, 2024
Hunter & Simon are both married. But they are both married to other people, and Hunter just happens to be married to Hunter's mum. He became Simon's stepdad at 14, and by 20, they're relationship changed again. They started an affair, and 10 years later it us still going strong.
They are so in love with each other, it literally bled of the pages. They can't deny each other, and they have failed to stop it, again and again. They whole family is spending Christmas together, and that includes their wife's. Simon's wife, Tessa, is pregnant and she was amazing, especially when she finds out the truth; that women was an MVP! They don't have a typical marriage
The sexual attractions is off the scale, and they are constantly at it! It is a big sexfest, with a dash of story thrown in. I loved them in bed together, and they are just magic; I couldn't get enough! The whole scene at the til was hilarious! Pickles and lube, anyone?! That poor cashier, what must she have been thinking. Luckily for her, and them, no pickles were harmed in the process of this book! They have sex in some pretty open places, the library is just one, and don't forget that pantry at the start. They knew how to play each other like a fiddle and it was a pleasure to watch!
I wish the book started with showing us, how the affair started, and their first time together! It just jumped in and they had already been at it for 10 years. I did feel the love between them and I felt that they truly loved each other, I just wished their backstory was shown, and us not just being told about it; I wanted to experience it with them.
I really wished, we had seen Hunter's wifes reaction to the affair and us not just told about it; I needed to see and experience it! The way the baby situation was wrapped up, was far to easy for me!
There is not really any angst here; well except for Hunter's poor wife! The ending was so great snapshot, and showed us, their future. It ended & started, with that pantry; talk about full circle!
This book does cover cheating, but not between our Hunter's and Simon. I can't wait to read about Hunter's brother & his ex-stepson!
They are so in love with each other, it literally bled of the pages. They can't deny each other, and they have failed to stop it, again and again. They whole family is spending Christmas together, and that includes their wife's. Simon's wife, Tessa, is pregnant and she was amazing, especially when she finds out the truth; that women was an MVP! They don't have a typical marriage
The sexual attractions is off the scale, and they are constantly at it! It is a big sexfest, with a dash of story thrown in. I loved them in bed together, and they are just magic; I couldn't get enough! The whole scene at the til was hilarious! Pickles and lube, anyone?! That poor cashier, what must she have been thinking. Luckily for her, and them, no pickles were harmed in the process of this book! They have sex in some pretty open places, the library is just one, and don't forget that pantry at the start. They knew how to play each other like a fiddle and it was a pleasure to watch!
I wish the book started with showing us, how the affair started, and their first time together! It just jumped in and they had already been at it for 10 years. I did feel the love between them and I felt that they truly loved each other, I just wished their backstory was shown, and us not just being told about it; I wanted to experience it with them.
I really wished, we had seen Hunter's wifes reaction to the affair and us not just told about it; I needed to see and experience it! The way the baby situation was wrapped up, was far to easy for me!
There is not really any angst here; well except for Hunter's poor wife! The ending was so great snapshot, and showed us, their future. It ended & started, with that pantry; talk about full circle!
This book does cover cheating, but not between our Hunter's and Simon. I can't wait to read about Hunter's brother & his ex-stepson!
November 15, 2022
THIS BOOK WAS HOT! Short and sweet with holiday feels and a whole lotta steam. If you're looking for forbidden this is definitely it as well. I don't have many limits, so I knew the score going in, just be prepared to think outside the box with the pretty wrapping paper a bow on top. If you are looking for a more conventional love story, then this may not be for you, but you would be missing out in my opinion.
Our two MC's Hunter and Simon are stepfather and stepson who have been in each other's lives for some odd years since Simon was a child close to his teens, and 10 of those have been sexual. At first it may have been just physical but quickly turned emotional and both Hunter and Simon have never been about so say no to the other. They want each other in every way but here's the kicker, they are both married, and Simon is a soon to be father. There are more layers to Simon and his wife's, Tessa, relationship that some may not call conventional, but it works for them, and they have nothing but love for one another, even if that love does not fit the normal definition of a marriage. And Hunter loves Simon's mother but slowly that love has changed over the years since quite frankly he longs for someone he truly shouldn't have. But it's inevitable, their sins, and they tempt fate every time their lips touch and their hands roam. Now there seems to be only fear holding these two men apart, fear of being hated and scorned, fear of losing more than one of their loved ones, and mostly fear of taking that next step and maybe ruining what they do have because "a handful of stolen moments is better than a lifetime of nothing."
This was my first read by Odessa and I will for sure be coming back for more. Her brand of forbidden is erotic and filthy and just what I like. The heat in this book is ridiculous and the secret kisses, touches, sucking, and fucking was enough to get me more than hot and bothered. I say again if forbidden is not for you then this is one you should probably pass on. But if love can be anything you want it to be to wherever you find it, then I would highly recommended reading Hunter and Simon's, story. You can feel the love and longing and desire that it is a living breathing thing, and I absolutely flew through this. Hunter and Simon had some ridiculously hot scenes, but they also had some sweet ones to balance out their dynamic and also to show it wasn't only the sex that kept them coming back. The one thing I did wish for was maybe one or two flashbacks of their earlier years together to see then and now and understand where the love came from. Other thana that I really enjoyed this one. I know Odessa push's the boundaries and limits and I will for sure be picking up more of her words. AND I truly hope a certain other pair in this book get a forbidden story as well, G + S = PLEASE ODESSA PLEASE!!!
Solid 4 stars.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by the author.
Our two MC's Hunter and Simon are stepfather and stepson who have been in each other's lives for some odd years since Simon was a child close to his teens, and 10 of those have been sexual. At first it may have been just physical but quickly turned emotional and both Hunter and Simon have never been about so say no to the other. They want each other in every way but here's the kicker, they are both married, and Simon is a soon to be father. There are more layers to Simon and his wife's, Tessa, relationship that some may not call conventional, but it works for them, and they have nothing but love for one another, even if that love does not fit the normal definition of a marriage. And Hunter loves Simon's mother but slowly that love has changed over the years since quite frankly he longs for someone he truly shouldn't have. But it's inevitable, their sins, and they tempt fate every time their lips touch and their hands roam. Now there seems to be only fear holding these two men apart, fear of being hated and scorned, fear of losing more than one of their loved ones, and mostly fear of taking that next step and maybe ruining what they do have because "a handful of stolen moments is better than a lifetime of nothing."
This was my first read by Odessa and I will for sure be coming back for more. Her brand of forbidden is erotic and filthy and just what I like. The heat in this book is ridiculous and the secret kisses, touches, sucking, and fucking was enough to get me more than hot and bothered. I say again if forbidden is not for you then this is one you should probably pass on. But if love can be anything you want it to be to wherever you find it, then I would highly recommended reading Hunter and Simon's, story. You can feel the love and longing and desire that it is a living breathing thing, and I absolutely flew through this. Hunter and Simon had some ridiculously hot scenes, but they also had some sweet ones to balance out their dynamic and also to show it wasn't only the sex that kept them coming back. The one thing I did wish for was maybe one or two flashbacks of their earlier years together to see then and now and understand where the love came from. Other thana that I really enjoyed this one. I know Odessa push's the boundaries and limits and I will for sure be picking up more of her words. AND I truly hope a certain other pair in this book get a forbidden story as well, G + S = PLEASE ODESSA PLEASE!!!
Solid 4 stars.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by the author.
June 10, 2024
The queen of taboo MM romance is back! Note: this IS a cheating book and an anomaly for me; there's no sex with others on page in the books timeline, but...I'm cashing in my hypocrite card for this one, I love this author.
They’re legally connected, equally forbidden, both married…and scandalously addicted to each other. They’ve been sneaking around and hooking up for a decade, neither willing to tell the truth, neither able to stay away. It’s so wrong…and so, so right. Please read the book copy for a plot summary.
SCANDALOUS and sexy and oh, so forbidden, Pinewood Lodge delivers Odessa Hywell at her most inappropriate best. Her stories are those delicious, hidden sins you just can’t stay away from, and this one dishes up another serving of OMG and they DIDN’T…yes. Yes, they did. If you’re averse to actual cheating in any form, approach with caution. As the book copy reveals, the heroes are married, but not to each other…and it’s even more complicated than that. But, I assure you that Odessa doesn’t throw anything in your face except the genuine connection, affection, and emotional dilemma these two men have put themselves in for years. There’s no easy answer, but there’s no stopping them either. Something’s gotta give.
Be there for it.
Simon and Hunter face close calls, getting caught, fessing up…all the pleasure, all the pain, all the inexcusable delight. They’re both so very in the wrong…and I just did not care. Sigh. That makes me hypocritical because usually I’m a DNF for emotional cheating, but, the way this author does it, that’s the mega-taboo part of this taboo conflict, and, it works. And heck…it’s a book!
HEA, hard won, and yes, there is both cheating and emotional cheating in ways for one hero, but, though I am a staunch hater of emotional cheating, the author doesn’t rub your nose in it, doesn’t put it on-page, and I was able to ignore it and focus on how much I wanted these two men to claim each other for good. There are…unique circumstances. Recommended.
They’re legally connected, equally forbidden, both married…and scandalously addicted to each other. They’ve been sneaking around and hooking up for a decade, neither willing to tell the truth, neither able to stay away. It’s so wrong…and so, so right. Please read the book copy for a plot summary.
SCANDALOUS and sexy and oh, so forbidden, Pinewood Lodge delivers Odessa Hywell at her most inappropriate best. Her stories are those delicious, hidden sins you just can’t stay away from, and this one dishes up another serving of OMG and they DIDN’T…yes. Yes, they did. If you’re averse to actual cheating in any form, approach with caution. As the book copy reveals, the heroes are married, but not to each other…and it’s even more complicated than that. But, I assure you that Odessa doesn’t throw anything in your face except the genuine connection, affection, and emotional dilemma these two men have put themselves in for years. There’s no easy answer, but there’s no stopping them either. Something’s gotta give.
Be there for it.
Simon and Hunter face close calls, getting caught, fessing up…all the pleasure, all the pain, all the inexcusable delight. They’re both so very in the wrong…and I just did not care. Sigh. That makes me hypocritical because usually I’m a DNF for emotional cheating, but, the way this author does it, that’s the mega-taboo part of this taboo conflict, and, it works. And heck…it’s a book!
HEA, hard won, and yes, there is both cheating and emotional cheating in ways for one hero, but, though I am a staunch hater of emotional cheating, the author doesn’t rub your nose in it, doesn’t put it on-page, and I was able to ignore it and focus on how much I wanted these two men to claim each other for good. There are…unique circumstances. Recommended.
November 15, 2022
God that epilogue was adorable
Look, I'm giving this book four stars. Clearly I liked it. It was mostly smut but I still enjoyed myself and Tessa made the book for me. Here's why it's not five stars
Surprise surprise, I'm a romance reader. That means I enjoy seeing characters fall in love. I like seeing why they love each other and hearing how they got to where they are. I was robbed of all of that here because Hunter and Simon are already together (kind of). Now I'm not someone who doesn't love a good established couple or a book where the majority of it is the characters being in a relationship. I'm not that girl. But I do need a how or why at some point. How did they fall in love. Why did they fall in love? One of these questions needs to be answered for me to ship the couple and set sail with them. But I never got that so I don't understand fully understand why Hunter loves Simon and why Simon loves Hunter. It's never even explained how they fell in love. All we know is they started screwing one summer and couldn't stop. Maybe it was explained at some point but it was so fleeting that it didn't stick and I missed it. And I'm not saying a successful romance can't exist in this way but in a taboo contemporary romance, you kind of need to understand why they want to be with each other and why they are fighting for it. Otherwise it's almost like what's the point of hurting the important people in your lives. I hate to say this but maybe if there was one less smut scene and one or two more emotional scenes, that might have helped.
However! I still really enjoyed this. I still had a lot of fun with it and I'd recommend it as a nice holiday break kind of book. It's short and easy with a fun cast and cute ending. I'm not upset. Four stars because thank gods for Tessa and that adorable epilogue.
Look, I'm giving this book four stars. Clearly I liked it. It was mostly smut but I still enjoyed myself and Tessa made the book for me. Here's why it's not five stars
Surprise surprise, I'm a romance reader. That means I enjoy seeing characters fall in love. I like seeing why they love each other and hearing how they got to where they are. I was robbed of all of that here because Hunter and Simon are already together (kind of). Now I'm not someone who doesn't love a good established couple or a book where the majority of it is the characters being in a relationship. I'm not that girl. But I do need a how or why at some point. How did they fall in love. Why did they fall in love? One of these questions needs to be answered for me to ship the couple and set sail with them. But I never got that so I don't understand fully understand why Hunter loves Simon and why Simon loves Hunter. It's never even explained how they fell in love. All we know is they started screwing one summer and couldn't stop. Maybe it was explained at some point but it was so fleeting that it didn't stick and I missed it. And I'm not saying a successful romance can't exist in this way but in a taboo contemporary romance, you kind of need to understand why they want to be with each other and why they are fighting for it. Otherwise it's almost like what's the point of hurting the important people in your lives. I hate to say this but maybe if there was one less smut scene and one or two more emotional scenes, that might have helped.
However! I still really enjoyed this. I still had a lot of fun with it and I'd recommend it as a nice holiday break kind of book. It's short and easy with a fun cast and cute ending. I'm not upset. Four stars because thank gods for Tessa and that adorable epilogue.
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