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Christmas Spirit
Dylan’s Cornish retreat wasn’t supposed to include a hot bloke and a cupid-playing ghost…
After tearing his Achilles tendon, recuperating by the sea sounds like a fantastic idea, and Dylan happily accepts his best mate’s offer to stay with him and his uncle for a few weeks. But he hadn’t counted on the uncle being smoking hot, or the fierce attraction that blossoms between them.
Swapping the busy streets of London for the easy pace of Cornish life is exactly what Gareth needs to move on with his own life. His new home requires a little TLC, but he’d expected that. What he hadn’t expected was the ghostly resident already living there.
A ten-year age gap isn’t the only issue standing between Dylan and Gareth. Their time together has an expiration date. By Christmas, Dylan will back home in Bristol spending the holidays with his dad, leaving Gareth all alone. Luckily for them, a matchmaking Christmas Spirit has other ideas.
A Christmas MM romance featuring a meet-cute, pining, a meddling ghost, a teeny bit of angst, and a festive HEA.
approx 74,000 words
Note: Henry & Dom from A No-Strings Noel briefly appear in this story.
After tearing his Achilles tendon, recuperating by the sea sounds like a fantastic idea, and Dylan happily accepts his best mate’s offer to stay with him and his uncle for a few weeks. But he hadn’t counted on the uncle being smoking hot, or the fierce attraction that blossoms between them.
Swapping the busy streets of London for the easy pace of Cornish life is exactly what Gareth needs to move on with his own life. His new home requires a little TLC, but he’d expected that. What he hadn’t expected was the ghostly resident already living there.
A ten-year age gap isn’t the only issue standing between Dylan and Gareth. Their time together has an expiration date. By Christmas, Dylan will back home in Bristol spending the holidays with his dad, leaving Gareth all alone. Luckily for them, a matchmaking Christmas Spirit has other ideas.
A Christmas MM romance featuring a meet-cute, pining, a meddling ghost, a teeny bit of angst, and a festive HEA.
approx 74,000 words
Note: Henry & Dom from A No-Strings Noel briefly appear in this story.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 22, 2022
39 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Jacobs
52 books405 followersAnnabelle Jacobs lives in the South West of England with her three rowdy children, and two cats.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
December 9, 2022
3 okayish stars!! 🤷♀️ The premise was great, I love age-gap romances and here the MCs were 27 and 37 so actually quite perfect. There was a bit of a supernatural element with a friendly ghost who played the mischievous matchmaker, but the chemistry and passion was a let down. I was expecting some major stars after the slow-burn but the intimate scenes were rushed and there wasn't enough palpable heat💔. It was sweet overall.. but not quite as exciting as it could have been. Also, there were a bunch of other characters which did not do anything to the overall plot. I still enjoyed it..recommend it to all fans of holiday romances who are looking for something sweet, tender with a dash of the supernatural. 👍
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November 23, 2022DNF .. Not interesting enough for me.
November 27, 2022
What I liked:
- low-angst, no drama or miscommunication
- age gap (MCs are 27 and 37 - kind of perfect if you ask me)
- falling for best friend's uncle trope (although I wasn't entirely convinced that Dylan had never met Gareth or even seen a picture of him in the ten years he's been friends with Josh)
- hurt/comfort (Dylan is on crutches for the majority of the story, and Gareth is ever so very willing to help)
- welcoming locals (see Kitty note below)
- fairytale HEA
What I didn't:
- the chemistry between the MCs was tepid at best (the sex scenes were either summarized or rushed on page)
- Kitty (I kind of loved her, but her interference and constant meddling were too much)
- the subplot about Josh's love life (uninteresting and distracting - we were given no details or background about the relationship, so why was it even included?)
- supernatural element (I am not at all opposed to ghost stories, but the whole "spirit" thing in this book was too literal for me; I think every scene featuring Agatha could have been revised to be much more subtle and all the better for it)
- low-angst, no drama or miscommunication
- age gap (MCs are 27 and 37 - kind of perfect if you ask me)
- falling for best friend's uncle trope (although I wasn't entirely convinced that Dylan had never met Gareth or even seen a picture of him in the ten years he's been friends with Josh)
- hurt/comfort (Dylan is on crutches for the majority of the story, and Gareth is ever so very willing to help)
- welcoming locals (see Kitty note below)
- fairytale HEA
What I didn't:
- the chemistry between the MCs was tepid at best (the sex scenes were either summarized or rushed on page)
- Kitty (I kind of loved her, but her interference and constant meddling were too much)
- the subplot about Josh's love life (uninteresting and distracting - we were given no details or background about the relationship, so why was it even included?)
- supernatural element (I am not at all opposed to ghost stories, but the whole "spirit" thing in this book was too literal for me; I think every scene featuring Agatha could have been revised to be much more subtle and all the better for it)
November 16, 2022
As the seasons turn and we enter the Winter quarter of the year, I always feel there's magic in the air.
The veil between the here and the otherworld that our ancestors believed in gets thinner and you really can believe that anything can happen.
This is the feel which Annabelle Jacobs brings to this wonderful Christmas set romance between an unlikely pairing but two men who just get each other.
Dylan first bumps into Gareth when he's in a cafe collecting coffees and his Achilles tendon pops. As he's struggling, the older man comes to his rescue and offers to drive him to the hospital. There's an instant attraction but the moment passes.
So it comes as a massive surprise to both when they meet again as Dylan heads down to Cornwall to rehabilitate from his injury with his best mate who's heading to work at his uncle's cottage.
From the off there's something just a little bit magical about this part of the world, the small village on the coast has happily embraced Gareth, who is a veterinarian, and his next door neighbour Kitty has provided him with gossip, baked goods, and a bit of mothering since his arrival.
The sparks between them are just as strong when they meet again, there's a brief moment of oh god you're my best mate's uncle/nephew's best mate dithering before they settle into a friendship that isn't looking like it's going to go anywhere.
Until we get to that element of otherworldly I mentioned earlier in the form of Agatha, the sweet old lady who used to live in the cottage and who is still sticking around as an unseen ghostly presence to keep giving them the nudges they need!
It sounds like it shouldn't work, but the ghostly interventions are some of the funniest parts of the book and also ones which bring a huge smile.
As Gareth's house renovations continue and the time that Dylan has to spend recovering from his injury grows shorter, they grow closer and it becomes increasingly clear they have the potential for something truly special.
I won't give away any more of the moments which give this festive romance its wonderfully magical and somewhat spooky atmosphere except to say the scene on Christmas Eve is just utterly gorgeous and I can't wait for everyone else to fall in love with the two men, the setting and their happy ever after.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
The veil between the here and the otherworld that our ancestors believed in gets thinner and you really can believe that anything can happen.
This is the feel which Annabelle Jacobs brings to this wonderful Christmas set romance between an unlikely pairing but two men who just get each other.
Dylan first bumps into Gareth when he's in a cafe collecting coffees and his Achilles tendon pops. As he's struggling, the older man comes to his rescue and offers to drive him to the hospital. There's an instant attraction but the moment passes.
So it comes as a massive surprise to both when they meet again as Dylan heads down to Cornwall to rehabilitate from his injury with his best mate who's heading to work at his uncle's cottage.
From the off there's something just a little bit magical about this part of the world, the small village on the coast has happily embraced Gareth, who is a veterinarian, and his next door neighbour Kitty has provided him with gossip, baked goods, and a bit of mothering since his arrival.
The sparks between them are just as strong when they meet again, there's a brief moment of oh god you're my best mate's uncle/nephew's best mate dithering before they settle into a friendship that isn't looking like it's going to go anywhere.
Until we get to that element of otherworldly I mentioned earlier in the form of Agatha, the sweet old lady who used to live in the cottage and who is still sticking around as an unseen ghostly presence to keep giving them the nudges they need!
It sounds like it shouldn't work, but the ghostly interventions are some of the funniest parts of the book and also ones which bring a huge smile.
As Gareth's house renovations continue and the time that Dylan has to spend recovering from his injury grows shorter, they grow closer and it becomes increasingly clear they have the potential for something truly special.
I won't give away any more of the moments which give this festive romance its wonderfully magical and somewhat spooky atmosphere except to say the scene on Christmas Eve is just utterly gorgeous and I can't wait for everyone else to fall in love with the two men, the setting and their happy ever after.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
December 2, 2022
Gareth and Dylan's story was sweet, if a little corny. I enjoyed some aspects of the story, but I didn't love it. Mainly, it was too insta-lovey for me and a lot of the content didn't center around the relationship between Gareth and Dylan. I understand why some elements were included in the story, but I would have rather had more interactions between the MCs. As it was, I didn't really get the connection between Dylan and Gareth. I enjoyed the mutual attraction between the two and the moments between them. But even though I enjoyed them together, I was disappointed that more of their connection didn't make it to the page.
I appreciated the inclusion of Agatha and Kitty. These two characters really added to the story and made for some fun times. I also enjoyed the coastal setting and the holiday vibe.
I appreciated the inclusion of Agatha and Kitty. These two characters really added to the story and made for some fun times. I also enjoyed the coastal setting and the holiday vibe.
November 23, 2022
4 Stars
I liked this one. It's a slow burn low angst story that you can just lose yourself in for an afternoon.
The story is well crafted, with Dylan and Gareth meeting through Dylan's best friend who is also Gareth's nephew, when Dylan was laid up with a torn Achilles. Their attraction is instant but both pull back due to their relationship with Josh and therefore spend a little bit of time getting to know each other instead of just reacting to the attraction. I enjoyed Josh's reactions throughout this, he could have really put the handbrake on the guys big time but instead he acts as the adult and understands they are both attracted so lets them go (with conditions about PDA's in front of him). There was a little bit of how would it work out as both guys were nervous about talking about it, but in the end all worked out well.
The friendships throughout the book are nice to read. From Gareth making his life in his new town and slowly being welcomed into the local community to Dylan, Josh and their friend base, and Agatha the friendly ghost, the secondary characters helped make this book an enjoyable read.
***ARC provide by GRR. This is my honest review***
I liked this one. It's a slow burn low angst story that you can just lose yourself in for an afternoon.
The story is well crafted, with Dylan and Gareth meeting through Dylan's best friend who is also Gareth's nephew, when Dylan was laid up with a torn Achilles. Their attraction is instant but both pull back due to their relationship with Josh and therefore spend a little bit of time getting to know each other instead of just reacting to the attraction. I enjoyed Josh's reactions throughout this, he could have really put the handbrake on the guys big time but instead he acts as the adult and understands they are both attracted so lets them go (with conditions about PDA's in front of him). There was a little bit of how would it work out as both guys were nervous about talking about it, but in the end all worked out well.
The friendships throughout the book are nice to read. From Gareth making his life in his new town and slowly being welcomed into the local community to Dylan, Josh and their friend base, and Agatha the friendly ghost, the secondary characters helped make this book an enjoyable read.
***ARC provide by GRR. This is my honest review***
November 29, 2022
Simply lovely and so romantic
Christmas Spirits is an MM Contemporary romance with a HEA. Standalone. Age-Gap. Bestie's Uncle. Christmas/Holiday reads. Romantic. Feel good. Sweet and Cute. Insta-attraction but with a romantic slowburn.
2POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 270 Pages, November 22, 2022.
Now this one was simply just lovely!
Just on spot what I felt like for a Christmas Romance read! Well done! Such a feel-good and sweet and cute. Well written with nice characters and a friendly old lady matchmaker ghost and a romantic historical background story to boot. Nothing amiss, nothing missing, nothing to add, nothing too much. Just right!
Recommended!
Christmas Spirits is an MM Contemporary romance with a HEA. Standalone. Age-Gap. Bestie's Uncle. Christmas/Holiday reads. Romantic. Feel good. Sweet and Cute. Insta-attraction but with a romantic slowburn.
2POV, 1st person, past tense. This kindle edition 270 Pages, November 22, 2022.
Now this one was simply just lovely!
Just on spot what I felt like for a Christmas Romance read! Well done! Such a feel-good and sweet and cute. Well written with nice characters and a friendly old lady matchmaker ghost and a romantic historical background story to boot. Nothing amiss, nothing missing, nothing to add, nothing too much. Just right!
Recommended!
November 26, 2022
3.5 stars, rounding up bc I do typically really enjoy Annabelle Jacobs’ Christmas offerings, and this one is no exception. A bit of an age gap, best friend’s uncle, dash of hurt/comfort, with lashing of forced proximity. The ghost aspect was not overdone, and the meddling elderly neighbor wasn’t annoying for once. A lovely little holiday treat.
I received a review copy from Gay Romance Reviews, and these are my honest opinions.
I received a review copy from Gay Romance Reviews, and these are my honest opinions.
November 24, 2022
Sweet Holiday Ghost Romance
I enjoyed reading this. Dylan and Gareth's story was so sweet and fun especially with Agatha helping them along.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I enjoyed reading this. Dylan and Gareth's story was so sweet and fun especially with Agatha helping them along.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
December 16, 2023
Finishing this little more than a week ago and hardly remembering anything about it says a lot. It was cute, nothing overtly annoying, but mostly pretty bland.
November 22, 2022
I loved the premise for this story in theory and in practice found it to be an enjoyable read. The setting is charming and features a small town, a tight-knit, eccentric community full of local legends and traditions, including, of course, the resident ghost(s). The love interests are both compelling as individuals and have a solid dynamic together– it’s obvious they click together emotionally and physically. There are adorable pets and some awesome supporting characters as well.
The only aspect of the story I ended up being a bit on the fence about was actually the one I liked the most before I started, and that’s the ghost. I have to admit that for me, at times, the “matchmaking ghost” angle veered from charming into pushy: “pervy old lady” is how Josh, Dylan’s bff and Gareth’s nephew, describes Agatha, who haunts the town in general and Gareth’s house in particular, and it can be disturbingly apt–she’s everywhere, all the time, and it’s…a lot. She’s willing to literally force them into proximity with each other and that…is two steps from a horror movie, I don’t care how much they actually like each other. Add in Kitty, the still-very-much-living elderly woman from next door who also feels entitled to dole out relationship advice and innuendo pretty much incessantly and it sometimes feels like the dynamic between the actual love interests gets shunted to the side in favor of all the well-meaning but perhaps overly invested voyeurs. Most of the time, it’s heartwarming and Christmasy and well-intentioned, but think about it for too long and…it’s a lot. In contrast, I absolutely adored the dynamic between Josh and Dylan, and Josh and Garett– he’s a good friend and a good nephew, one who respects boundaries and cares about everyone’s feelings: he’s no saint, and it takes him time to come to terms with the fact that his best friend is falling for his uncle, and vice versa, but he doesn’t make it all about him and he’s there, metaphorically and literally, whenever either of them need him.
Overall, I liked this story: it��s got a ton of Christmas spirit, some memorable characters and a charming setting– a solidly enjoyable holiday romance.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
The only aspect of the story I ended up being a bit on the fence about was actually the one I liked the most before I started, and that’s the ghost. I have to admit that for me, at times, the “matchmaking ghost” angle veered from charming into pushy: “pervy old lady” is how Josh, Dylan’s bff and Gareth’s nephew, describes Agatha, who haunts the town in general and Gareth’s house in particular, and it can be disturbingly apt–she’s everywhere, all the time, and it’s…a lot. She’s willing to literally force them into proximity with each other and that…is two steps from a horror movie, I don’t care how much they actually like each other. Add in Kitty, the still-very-much-living elderly woman from next door who also feels entitled to dole out relationship advice and innuendo pretty much incessantly and it sometimes feels like the dynamic between the actual love interests gets shunted to the side in favor of all the well-meaning but perhaps overly invested voyeurs. Most of the time, it’s heartwarming and Christmasy and well-intentioned, but think about it for too long and…it’s a lot. In contrast, I absolutely adored the dynamic between Josh and Dylan, and Josh and Garett– he’s a good friend and a good nephew, one who respects boundaries and cares about everyone’s feelings: he’s no saint, and it takes him time to come to terms with the fact that his best friend is falling for his uncle, and vice versa, but he doesn’t make it all about him and he’s there, metaphorically and literally, whenever either of them need him.
Overall, I liked this story: it��s got a ton of Christmas spirit, some memorable characters and a charming setting– a solidly enjoyable holiday romance.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
November 19, 2022
Christmas Spirit is a sweet, low angst holiday story featuring a matchmaking ghost in a home by the sea.
Dylan is injured and laid up for weeks, unable to walk on his foot and having to work from home. His best friend Josh invites him to stay at his uncle’s house by the sea while he’s doing renovations for a change of scenery and to recuperate. Dylan doesn’t do well with being incapacitated but enjoys spending time at Gareth’s house and finds a new sense of peace there. However he’s nervous to change his life based off of a few weeks and to believe in his connection with Gareth.
Gareth bought a house by the sea to turn it into his home and is doing renovations with the help of his nephew, Josh. When Josh brings his friend Dylan with him to stay while working on the renovations, Gareth immediately feels a pull toward Dylan even though their circumstances are complicated. He has a big heart and wants Dylan to feel comfortable in his home and in his life, but is worried things won’t last once Dylan is healed.
The connection between Dylan and Gareth is super sweet and really innocent for so long because they don’t want to make things awkward for Josh. But they get to know each other with the help of Agatha, the matchmaking ghost of the previous homeowner. They’re thrown together over and over again in really cute ways and are always treated to the scent of perfume afterwards. I wish they had talked more about their feelings for each other while they were apart but I loved the way things came together for the two of them in the end!
This was a really enjoyable holiday story that left me with a big smile on my face. I’m looking forward to reading more from Annabelle Jacobs in the future!
Dylan is injured and laid up for weeks, unable to walk on his foot and having to work from home. His best friend Josh invites him to stay at his uncle’s house by the sea while he’s doing renovations for a change of scenery and to recuperate. Dylan doesn’t do well with being incapacitated but enjoys spending time at Gareth’s house and finds a new sense of peace there. However he’s nervous to change his life based off of a few weeks and to believe in his connection with Gareth.
Gareth bought a house by the sea to turn it into his home and is doing renovations with the help of his nephew, Josh. When Josh brings his friend Dylan with him to stay while working on the renovations, Gareth immediately feels a pull toward Dylan even though their circumstances are complicated. He has a big heart and wants Dylan to feel comfortable in his home and in his life, but is worried things won’t last once Dylan is healed.
The connection between Dylan and Gareth is super sweet and really innocent for so long because they don’t want to make things awkward for Josh. But they get to know each other with the help of Agatha, the matchmaking ghost of the previous homeowner. They’re thrown together over and over again in really cute ways and are always treated to the scent of perfume afterwards. I wish they had talked more about their feelings for each other while they were apart but I loved the way things came together for the two of them in the end!
This was a really enjoyable holiday story that left me with a big smile on my face. I’m looking forward to reading more from Annabelle Jacobs in the future!
November 27, 2022
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Christmas Spirit by Annabelle Jacobs is a new standalone holiday MM romance. Dylan has found himself injured right before the holidays and recuperating in the Cornish countryside. His best friend has found him the perfect place to recover and with this ideal location comes Josh’s handsome uncle, Gareth. Gareth never expects his nephew’s best friend to immediately appeal to him and struggles to keep his feelings at bay. Both men feel an intense attraction to each other but question if it’s okay to pursue each other due to Josh and the imminent end date of Dylan’s recovery/return to Bristol.
This was a slow burn holiday romance with a little twist of small town life and a meddling spirit. Dylan is younger than Gareth and best friend’s with Gareth’s nephew Josh. This is a roadblock for both men as they don’t want anything happening between them to impact their relationships with Josh. Add in a small supernatural plot of a meddlesome matchmaking ghost and this low angst holiday story was fun. That being said it felt a little too drawn out for my taste and I struggled at times to feel the chemistry between Gareth and Dylan.
3 stars for this sweet low angst holiday romance.
Christmas Spirit by Annabelle Jacobs is a new standalone holiday MM romance. Dylan has found himself injured right before the holidays and recuperating in the Cornish countryside. His best friend has found him the perfect place to recover and with this ideal location comes Josh’s handsome uncle, Gareth. Gareth never expects his nephew’s best friend to immediately appeal to him and struggles to keep his feelings at bay. Both men feel an intense attraction to each other but question if it’s okay to pursue each other due to Josh and the imminent end date of Dylan’s recovery/return to Bristol.
This was a slow burn holiday romance with a little twist of small town life and a meddling spirit. Dylan is younger than Gareth and best friend’s with Gareth’s nephew Josh. This is a roadblock for both men as they don’t want anything happening between them to impact their relationships with Josh. Add in a small supernatural plot of a meddlesome matchmaking ghost and this low angst holiday story was fun. That being said it felt a little too drawn out for my taste and I struggled at times to feel the chemistry between Gareth and Dylan.
3 stars for this sweet low angst holiday romance.
November 28, 2022
Christmas Spirit is the first I've read by this author. The writing style is reminiscent of a couple of my favorite authors, which is a definite plus.
This is a sweet and sexy Christmas read that I’m sure I will read again, especially if Josh (Dylan’s best mate and Gareth’s nephew) gets his own book.
The well-thought-out storyline and smooth flow kept me immersed in the story. The secondary characters added color and context to the piece and just a little something for the main characters to push against as they work towards their HEA.
The ghostly aspect was like a cute prize that I enjoyed each time it appeared.
I didn't think the age gap was an issue, but I did appreciate the author's take on how it would affect the older person in a burgeoning relationship. Gareth is a lovely character, full of warm feelings and fun, and is just an all-around good guy.
Dylan is warm-spirited, easygoing, and a good match in temperament for Gareth. He is mature for his age but young enough to keep Gareth on his toes.
Gareth and Dylan are a beautiful couple sharing a strong emotional attachment and passion that leads to a believable and satisfying HEA.
I look forward to more from this author.
This is a sweet and sexy Christmas read that I’m sure I will read again, especially if Josh (Dylan’s best mate and Gareth’s nephew) gets his own book.
The well-thought-out storyline and smooth flow kept me immersed in the story. The secondary characters added color and context to the piece and just a little something for the main characters to push against as they work towards their HEA.
The ghostly aspect was like a cute prize that I enjoyed each time it appeared.
I didn't think the age gap was an issue, but I did appreciate the author's take on how it would affect the older person in a burgeoning relationship. Gareth is a lovely character, full of warm feelings and fun, and is just an all-around good guy.
Dylan is warm-spirited, easygoing, and a good match in temperament for Gareth. He is mature for his age but young enough to keep Gareth on his toes.
Gareth and Dylan are a beautiful couple sharing a strong emotional attachment and passion that leads to a believable and satisfying HEA.
I look forward to more from this author.
December 2, 2022
delightful holiday romance
Rating: 4🌈
Christmas Spirit by Annabelle Jacobs is another delightful holiday romance. Set In Cornwall, a favorite location of mine, this low angst age gap tale has a bit of the magical holiday spirit that takes this a tad into the supernatural with a merry matchmaking ghost!
Dylan tears his Achilles tendon and ends up recovering at his best friend’s uncle’s house In Cornwall.
The uncle is younger that expected and hot! And someone Dylan had met-cute before arriving.
Gareth is drawn to his nephew’s best friend, the first one since his bad breakup. The vet has his newly purchased older house under renovation, with the help of his nephew and others . But it Dylan he can’t keep his eyes off.
The men maneuver through the minefield of emotions that’s the best friend/nephew’s feelings about them, the idea of any permanence, guided by the actions of a ghostly matchmaker.
It’s sweet, funny, and sexy. Accompanied by several side stories that involve Dylan’s dad and Gareth’s ex’s father about moving on with your life. Believable and lovely.
I’m recommending Christmas Spirit by Annabelle Jacobs as another heartwarming holiday read. Add it to your list!
Rating: 4🌈
Christmas Spirit by Annabelle Jacobs is another delightful holiday romance. Set In Cornwall, a favorite location of mine, this low angst age gap tale has a bit of the magical holiday spirit that takes this a tad into the supernatural with a merry matchmaking ghost!
Dylan tears his Achilles tendon and ends up recovering at his best friend’s uncle’s house In Cornwall.
The uncle is younger that expected and hot! And someone Dylan had met-cute before arriving.
Gareth is drawn to his nephew’s best friend, the first one since his bad breakup. The vet has his newly purchased older house under renovation, with the help of his nephew and others . But it Dylan he can’t keep his eyes off.
The men maneuver through the minefield of emotions that’s the best friend/nephew’s feelings about them, the idea of any permanence, guided by the actions of a ghostly matchmaker.
It’s sweet, funny, and sexy. Accompanied by several side stories that involve Dylan’s dad and Gareth’s ex’s father about moving on with your life. Believable and lovely.
I’m recommending Christmas Spirit by Annabelle Jacobs as another heartwarming holiday read. Add it to your list!
November 24, 2022
If you're looking for a sweet, funny, slow burn (but not too slow) holiday romance this is the book to read. Dylan and Gareth were so cute and sweet while trying to navigate their attraction to each other and keep a good relationship with Josh (Dylan's BFF and Gareth's nephew). They tried to ignore it but it was too strong. Also, a matchmaking mischievous ghost refused to let them ignore it. But their were some bumps to their HEA. Gareth was scared to open his heart once again, especially with someone who would not be around for long, to which he was very sensitive about. Dylan was still trying to balance his life and not feel guilty about abandoning his dad. There were many tender and emotional moments that made my heart melt. But it wasn't overly sweet, with many hilarious occasions to balance it out perfectly. The secondary characters were also very well developed and added to the story, especially Josh. He was such a great friend and nephew. And now I really want to read his story too.
December 23, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This is a sweet and tender holiday romance, with definite paranormal elements. Dylan and Gareth regularly interact with their resident spirit while falling for one another. Gareth is in a bind, however, because he’s put down his roots in Cornwall and he doesn’t want to give his heart to another man who won’t stick around, like his ex-fiance. Dylan, however, can’t really imagine a life without Gareth, not after experiencing such strong connections with him. Though he is afraid to leave his widowed father alone back in Bristol, both Dylan and his dad seem ready for some big life changes.
The ghost stuff was certainly entertaining, and I didn’t feel it overpowered the love story, since it forced the MCs to connect.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This is a sweet and tender holiday romance, with definite paranormal elements. Dylan and Gareth regularly interact with their resident spirit while falling for one another. Gareth is in a bind, however, because he’s put down his roots in Cornwall and he doesn’t want to give his heart to another man who won’t stick around, like his ex-fiance. Dylan, however, can’t really imagine a life without Gareth, not after experiencing such strong connections with him. Though he is afraid to leave his widowed father alone back in Bristol, both Dylan and his dad seem ready for some big life changes.
The ghost stuff was certainly entertaining, and I didn’t feel it overpowered the love story, since it forced the MCs to connect.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
December 29, 2022
Sweet, low angst holiday read
I really enjoyed this sweet holiday read. Two likeable MCs, best friend’s uncle, age gap, small town, insta-attraction, matchmaking ghost.
This book has lots of things to recommend it. The writing is crisp and clever. The story arc moves well. There are interesting secondary characters that help propel the storyline. Gareth and Dylan are MCs that I liked immediately and wanted to see get their HEA. Josh (the nephew/best friend) and Kitty, the old woman next door neighbor are both fun and serve important roles in the story. And of course Agatha is the star of the show. I would love a follow up book that has as a key element how Agatha stays involved in Gareth and Dylan’s life…like her dropping hints about adopting a child!
This was a quick, light, low angst holiday read. Perfect for the days immediately following the big day when you just want to decompress and relax.
I really enjoyed this sweet holiday read. Two likeable MCs, best friend’s uncle, age gap, small town, insta-attraction, matchmaking ghost.
This book has lots of things to recommend it. The writing is crisp and clever. The story arc moves well. There are interesting secondary characters that help propel the storyline. Gareth and Dylan are MCs that I liked immediately and wanted to see get their HEA. Josh (the nephew/best friend) and Kitty, the old woman next door neighbor are both fun and serve important roles in the story. And of course Agatha is the star of the show. I would love a follow up book that has as a key element how Agatha stays involved in Gareth and Dylan’s life…like her dropping hints about adopting a child!
This was a quick, light, low angst holiday read. Perfect for the days immediately following the big day when you just want to decompress and relax.
November 27, 2022
3.5 stars
A cute and short holiday read.
If you are looking for a good book to get you in the holiday spirit, I don't think you could go wrong with this one. It definitely had a sweet and kind of magical atmosphere/mood in the story. The way the characters met was honestly adorable. Things like that just make me all giddy because the attraction that both men felt was clearly obvious, at least to me.
However, there were some things that put me off. The overly involved busybody character, Kitty, and the whole "spirit" thing. I don't know if the latter was really needed, and Kitty was utterly annoying. I cannot stand nosey people who do not and cannot read the room. Like stay out of Kitty. She meant well, but *rolls eyes* it was cringey to me.
*ARC provided by GRR, and I have given my honest and voluntary review. *
A cute and short holiday read.
If you are looking for a good book to get you in the holiday spirit, I don't think you could go wrong with this one. It definitely had a sweet and kind of magical atmosphere/mood in the story. The way the characters met was honestly adorable. Things like that just make me all giddy because the attraction that both men felt was clearly obvious, at least to me.
However, there were some things that put me off. The overly involved busybody character, Kitty, and the whole "spirit" thing. I don't know if the latter was really needed, and Kitty was utterly annoying. I cannot stand nosey people who do not and cannot read the room. Like stay out of Kitty. She meant well, but *rolls eyes* it was cringey to me.
*ARC provided by GRR, and I have given my honest and voluntary review. *
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December 26, 2023So it's only been a couple days since I finished this but apparently I forgotten just about everything besides the fact that one of the guys terrace his Achilles tendon and is in a cast and then he ends up flirting with his best friend's hot uncle as they renovate a house that has a Christmas spirit in it. That's basically the summary.
I'm going to be real honest and say that I think a lot of my lackluster reaction to this book is due to the audiobook narrator and not the story itself. I wish I had realized this was narrated by Dan Calley before I had started it because I probably wouldn't have read it. I just don't really like him as a narrator and don't think he brings anything to any book I've ever listened to where he narrates. It's really unfortunate because this book probably isn't bad but it sure isn't memorable either.
I'm going to be real honest and say that I think a lot of my lackluster reaction to this book is due to the audiobook narrator and not the story itself. I wish I had realized this was narrated by Dan Calley before I had started it because I probably wouldn't have read it. I just don't really like him as a narrator and don't think he brings anything to any book I've ever listened to where he narrates. It's really unfortunate because this book probably isn't bad but it sure isn't memorable either.
November 26, 2022
❤️👻A great romance with others matchmaking.
A great beginning as Dylan got a coffee in a coffee shop when his ankle gave out. Saved from coffee landing on the floor, he meets Gareth.
Dylan is 27 years an accountant office worker and had ten weeks of doing nothing while he healed. So Josh volunteers to help his friend by visiting his uncle, who lived by the sea.
Gareth, 37, was a vet and in the stage of renovating his house with the help of Josh.
Ooh, I had to laugh at Dylan and Gareth's second meeting.
A forbidden romance, an uncle and best friend's lovers, a dog named Harley, an age gap and maybe a ghost, and a matchmaking neighbour.
A captivating story for the two characters told from both povs. I loved their flirting and their chemistry. Agatha 👻 has her fun, too, setting them up in scenes and starting the bejeezus out of Josh.
A mystery of Agatha and her house that Gareth was residing in, to be told. Hot🔥🔥sexy scenes are smoking between them, despite having Dylan in his leg cast.
I loved the ending of this, a beautifully written book.
A great beginning as Dylan got a coffee in a coffee shop when his ankle gave out. Saved from coffee landing on the floor, he meets Gareth.
Dylan is 27 years an accountant office worker and had ten weeks of doing nothing while he healed. So Josh volunteers to help his friend by visiting his uncle, who lived by the sea.
Gareth, 37, was a vet and in the stage of renovating his house with the help of Josh.
Ooh, I had to laugh at Dylan and Gareth's second meeting.
A forbidden romance, an uncle and best friend's lovers, a dog named Harley, an age gap and maybe a ghost, and a matchmaking neighbour.
A captivating story for the two characters told from both povs. I loved their flirting and their chemistry. Agatha 👻 has her fun, too, setting them up in scenes and starting the bejeezus out of Josh.
A mystery of Agatha and her house that Gareth was residing in, to be told. Hot🔥🔥sexy scenes are smoking between them, despite having Dylan in his leg cast.
I loved the ending of this, a beautifully written book.
November 29, 2022
Dylan and Gareth are connected through Josh, who is Dylan's bestie and Gareth's nephew. So them both being together at Gareth's house near the seaside while Dylan recovers from an ankle injury gives them time and proximity to grow attracted but the caution to want to tread carefully because of their relationships with Josh. But Agatha, a well meaning spirit, is not feeling the same caution as she lends a hand to help them along and past their cautions. Their slow burn romance was fitting given the connections and the ten year age gap. However, what read like a beautiful setting and a little paranormal cheerleader was just what they needed to not let a chance at happiness pass them by. Lovely!
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2022
When an injury brings you unexpected connection and the resident meddling ghost makes sure it turns to romance. Josh convinces his best mate Dylan to spend his recuperation with Josh and Uncle Gareth. Only Uncle Gareth isn’t what Dylan was expecting. He’s only 10y older and they find themselves dealing with attraction. The relationship is slow burn since they’re trying to be respectful of Josh and have some misgivings about their ages and Dylan’s going back home after he recovers. But of course Agatha intervenes. It’s a lovely spooky Christmas story with a great small town vibe.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy provided by GayRomanceReviews.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy provided by GayRomanceReviews.
November 24, 2022
I absolutely fell head-first into this slow burn holiday romance. It’s a lovely, quick read for when you just need a warm, happy glow. The low angst, genuine connection Dylan & Gareth share is the perfect complement to the magic of the Christmas season, with just a smidge of the paranormal to round things out.
Annabelle Jacobs lets you thoroughly experience every stage of their relationship from unlikely meet-cute to unexpected reacquaintance to happily ever after. Readers will never doubt Dylan & Gareth’s feelings for each other, even if their vulnerability and uncertainty at times have them doing just that.
Annabelle Jacobs lets you thoroughly experience every stage of their relationship from unlikely meet-cute to unexpected reacquaintance to happily ever after. Readers will never doubt Dylan & Gareth’s feelings for each other, even if their vulnerability and uncertainty at times have them doing just that.
November 25, 2022
I found this fun paranormal romance enjoyable and engaging with great characters and a sweet storyline. I enjoyed Dylan and Gareth as a couple, their chemistry really came across, it was practically love at first sight at what was a serendipitous meeting. The story flowed well making it an easy and sweet read. I look forward to reading Jason's (Dylan's best friend) story which will feature in the author's newsletter. I hadn't realised that this lady had written so many festive books, I've already picked up a couple of them to read. Sweet and cute low angst romance, with a lovely ending. It certainly made me smile.
November 29, 2022
Casper was friendly, Aggie is determined. Dylan, suffers an injury and spends his time recuperating at his friend, Josh's Uncle's house, by the sea. Uncle Gareth, has a new property which he is updating. Dylan and Gareth feel an attraction with a little help from the town ghost. Fun story. Ghosts usually add an unexpected bit of cute when they assist in reaching for an HEA. Does Dylan recover? Dose the ghost succeed in her task? Will Dylan and Gareth ignore the age difference. Will Dylan stay? The town, sounds like a fun place with friendly warm townspeople. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 23, 2025
I appreciated the simplicity of this low drama/realistic relationship-starting story that includes the surprise (if you, like me, didn't read the blurb) that the titular "spirit" of the novel is a literal ghost.
It was a pleasant tale of ghost-acceptance rather than fear and a nice little twist on matchmaking stories. The Britishness of all the emotional-discussion avoidance rang true, albeit frustrating at times, but again, was further grounding to this everyday story that also includes a haunting in a delightfully unremarkable way.
Will definitely check out more by Annabelle Jacobs.
[Nice audiobook narration by Dan Calley]
It was a pleasant tale of ghost-acceptance rather than fear and a nice little twist on matchmaking stories. The Britishness of all the emotional-discussion avoidance rang true, albeit frustrating at times, but again, was further grounding to this everyday story that also includes a haunting in a delightfully unremarkable way.
Will definitely check out more by Annabelle Jacobs.
[Nice audiobook narration by Dan Calley]
November 22, 2022
This was so unique with a little bit of spooky magical feel for this time of the year! I admit I enjoy romances that come from an injured guy needing somewhere to recuperate! This one adds the layer of said guy, Dylan, staying at his friend's home with his Uncle Gareth. There is a small age gap and the resistance of Dylan not wanting to upset his friend with his feelings for his uncle keeping these two apart. But no worries we have a ghost to intervene! The Atmosphere of a seaside home was perfection!
November 22, 2022
The characters in this story grabbed my attention almost instantly. From painful, literally, meet-cute to realizing the would be living together for several weeks, Dylan and Gareth had me invested in the story. Not to mention the other characters, including Josh and Harley. Despite the awkwardness of Gareth being Josh’s uncle, these two have instant attraction and insane chemistry. And let’s not forget the matchmaking spirit of Agatha who seems determined to force these two together. Somehow these two have to figure out a way to make everything work out. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.
November 26, 2022
Best friend’s uncle? Yes, please! I didn’t read the complete blurb after that so the PNR elements were a surprise to me but Agatha added a whole lot to Dylan and Gareth’s story. The connection between the two was instantaneous and I liked their little meeting at the beginning before they were properly introduced by Josh, who was also a brilliant addition and I was rooting for him and Jason as we got little snippets of their developing relationship throughout the book. A romantic, festive, feel-good read.
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