A STEAMY SECOND CHANCE ROCKSTAR ROMANCE WITH ALL THE FESTIVE FEELS!
SASHA Ten years ago, I inherited our family castle and sole care of my youngest sister. More Cinderella, than Sleeping Beauty, at the mere age of twenty-eight I have a teenager to raise and a hotel to run. If the hotel is to survive past Christmas, I need a lottery win, a miracle, or Prince Charming himself to sweep in with a humongous… wad of cash.
When my super successful middle sister announces she’s coming home for the holiday season, I’m determined to put my problems aside and make this the most fabulous Christmas ever. Especially as it might just be the last one in our family home.
I didn’t factor in the return of my first love, Ryan Cooper . Back then he was the boy next door. Now, he’s a world famous singer/song writer. We were supposed to go the States together. He left without me. Now he’s back. Rumour is he has writers block. Apparently this is a last-ditch attempt to find inspiration before his record label pulls the plug permanently.
And guess where he wants to stay? You have it in one- the most inspiring castle hotel in Dublin’s fair city.
Every woman in the city wants to pull this Hollywood Christmas cracker. Except me. I’m going to avoid him at all costs.
Easier said than done when he’s parading around under my roof, with enough heat exuding from his molten eyes to melt every square inch of snow from the peaks of the Dublin mountains...
My Big Fat Fabulous Christmas is an OPEN DOOR steamy, love conquers all, stand alone romance, with no cliff hanger- and a guaranteed happy ever after.
Perfect reading for fans of T L SWAN, MEGHAN QUINN & MELANIE HARLOW.
SARA MADDERSON AUTHOR ★★★★★ "The most glamorous, glorious, heat-filled festive read! GO READ IT!"
Oh my goodness. THIS BOOK. I absolutely devoured it. It’s the ultimate indulgence—a sexy, spicy, clever tale that delivers from page one.
Firstly, the premise is amazing. Bad-boy, talented local pops your cherry and then disappears off to the US that same night? Without you? And without an explanation? Only to reappear at your family’s gorgeous but in-need-of-investment castle hotel ten years later, when he’s one of the hottest rock stars on the planet? SIGN. ME. UP.
The tension and angst and HEAT between Sasha and Ryan was off the charts, and I was there for every second of it. It was such a treat to spend time in the stunning, festive Huxley castle with these two and their insane chemistry. And when they gave into the inevitable, the spice was FABULOUS.
What reviewers are Marissa ★★★★★ Best book I've read this year! This book is utterly brilliant! An absolute must read. Don't put it on your tbr list READ IT NOW! At the end of each chapter I was either giggling with excitement or biting my lip in trepidation, it really gave me all the feels and had so much depth as well as being light which is a huge credit to the author.
You will fall in love with all the characters, the passion and chemistry between them jumps off the page and straight to my heart.
I have read 127 books so far this year and this has most definitely been the best, I just gave me everything and more.
Chloe ★★★★★ Sexy second-chance romance with a Christmas backdrop.
Chemistry to die for? Check A tragic past? Check A castle in Ireland? Check Friends & family? Check A happy ever after? Check
I'll just say that I'm totally engrossed and eager to read more from the author. I adore the plot, which is reminiscent of a contemporary fairytale.
I was captivated by the adolescent love that Sasha and Ryan shared, and I couldn't wait to watch it develop into their adult lives.
The life Ryan led after being compelled to leave is vividly described in this book, as are Sasha's daily activities in Ireland. Sasha and Ryan's affection and attraction were undeniably palpable. The spice was outstanding! The author deserves a lot of praise for being able to evoke those feelings in the reader.
I found the plot twist to be rather predictable, but I did really like the way the scenario was handled. It found it much easier to relate to each of the main characters because they were all complex and had interesting backstories.
This book is nicely written, simple to read, and has good spacing. It draws you immediately into the plot, and every emotion was well considered and executed in this book. the places and ambiance that the book creates. What more could you ask for than a gorgeously lighted Irish castle, Christmas tree, and all the holiday decorations?
This is unquestionably the perfect Christmas read for curling up with a nice blanket and a cup of hot cocoa. A treasure you shouldn't pass up!
I got a free copy of this book via BookSirens. My review is voluntary, and these are my personal views.
Holy moly guacamole, make sure you've had a good night's sleep and eaten before you start this book, because chances are you won't be able to put it down. I've just finished it and was utterly swept away in Ryan and Sasha's world. Ryan Cooper and Sasha Sexton were childhood sweethearts, until one night when both their lives changed for the worst. Fast forward ten years and Ryan's the world's hottest rock star and Sasha is managing her late parents'castle hotel and parenting her youngest sister. The hotel is on the brink of going under and she's facing the reality of losing her only home and the business her parents worked so hard to create.
On the other side of the Atlantic ocean, Ryan has writer's block. If he can't produce two more albums then he's in deep trouble. The last time he could write was back in Ireland with Sasha, so he books a flight to stay in the hotel over Christmas and try and rekindle his creativity. He has no idea that Sasha is still there, or what happened to her family the night he fled Ireland with his father and brother.
Lyndsey Gallagher is a master storyteller who draws you into her character's lives so beautifully that you want each and every one of them to get their happy ending. Ryan in particular ticked all my boxes, because not only was he a drop dead gorgeous rockstar, he was also besotted with Sasha and not afraid to tell her and the world about his feelings for her. This is a fabulous love story with angst, heart, humour and every Christmas feel you could ever imagine. Go read it now!
This was a cute (and spicy) holiday rom-com that was perfectly paced! I really enjoyed the female main character, Sasha's, relationship not only with her two sisters but with the staff at the castle hotel that she owns and runs.
This book was spicy! At times, I did feel that the spice between the two main characters, Sasha and Ryan, dominated the plot and was the main feature of the book, however in the end, I felt that while it may have been a little distracting at times, overall it didn't distract from the main plot. You could definitely feel the love and attraction between Sasha and Ryan and you really did root for their success together, which is always a wonderful feeling when you read a book and a big kudos to the author for being able to convey those emotions in the reader!
There were times when the plot was predictable, but I was happy with the ending and love that the author left the reader wondering more about Sasha's sisters. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series when it becomes available!
I enjoyed this book, devoured it in about 24 hours, and would recommend it to anyone looking for a holiday rom-com that contains second-chance romance and found family tropes.
I received a digital copy for free of My Big Fat Fabulous Christmas from BookSirens and Lyndsey Gallagher in exchange for my honest review.
Oh my goodness I absolutely love the story, Ryan and Sasha have been friends, and in the past they were sweethearts well fast forward 10 years, and they’re thrown back together under circumstances that neither of them saw this reminded me of a modern day fairytale. It makes me wanna go to Ireland so bad. Loved This so much .
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, it’s an awesome read!! OMG what a fabulous book. I enjoyed it so much. It was one of those books that I kept promising myself just one more chapter before I ended up reading into the early hours of the morning. Ryan-runaway Cooper is the most gorgeous book boyfriend, and a rockstar to boot, the way he loves Sasha is the stuff of dreams (and the hot sex they have almost continuously adds a decent amount of steam to the book). This book is well written, easy to read and hooks you right into the story and won't let go. There's a surprising amount of depth to the main characters and their story, separately and together, and so much emotion; you'll laugh, you'll swoon, your heart will break right alongside theirs and the twist at the end you won't see coming but you just know it can't all be this easy. Ms. Gallagher has given us a host of amazing secondary characters and I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next. I loved reading every word from start to finish…. Just waiting for the bonus epilogue to download for a little more Sasha and Ryan.
UPDATE: cant stop thinking about this book so decided it’s a 4⭐️ hehe. A cute story line but when everything reverts back to sex and they stick their tongue out while referencing tiktok I can’t take it seriously. Also big twist at the end which I didn’t expect so more like a 2.5 stars.
Book one of the Sexton Sisters series can be read as a stand alone and ends with a HEA. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
This is my first book by this author, and I am impressed. The characters are complex as individuals, and the plot is intricately wound and full of layers of emotion. There is some heat, some humor, and some angst as Sasha and Ryan are reunited after ten years apart. What was once first love becomes more as they learn to trust each other again and they develop a determination within themselves to make their relationship work in spite of circumstances. And they have a lot to overcome.
Ryan has been living the rock star lifestyle, but feels empty. When he returns to Dublin in a last-ditch attempt to defeat his writer's block, he is faced with the ramifications of his father's decision to leave suddenly so long ago. I adore that he never really got over Sasha. I loved that music comes back to him in Ireland. I love that he becomes a full character with pain, grief, anger, and love as he learns to feel all his emotions again. Despite the challenges he faced on the way to becoming a star, he has retained a solidly good character. I say this, even though at times he is very naïve about the effects his actions have on others. I love how willing he is to sacrifice for Sasha's happiness and I am thrilled they were able to work out another way to be together in the end.
Sasha has been barely surviving in the face of difficult circumstances. The survival of the castle and raising her youngest sister have taken a toll though. I could really feel her exhaustion at always putting everyone and everything else above her own needs. The author does an amazing job allowing readers to feel her hopelessness, her anger, distrust, and her grief. I loved her determination. I could really appreciate her feelings for Ryan and her fear of not being enough for him. I also love how she is able to finally take what she needs even when it requires her to be stronger than she thought she could be. I adore their HEA.
This is not a fluffy, hallmark holiday read. Yes, there are some humorous moments. However, this book is about so much more. There is so much depth and character development as Sasha and Ryan find their way back to each other. Miscommunications, misunderstandings, and secrets threaten this couple who found their great love as teens, lost it, and finally fight to win it back.
CW: death of parents, parental neglect, miscarriage
This is book 1 in The Sexton Sister Series, by Gallagher and this is the first book I've read by her...I will say that I am completely hooked and can't wait to read more by her. This was rom-com perfection for me. Amazing characters, great balance with sweet, steam and of course the humor. A storyline that is captivating but also flows smoothly. I loved this read! Our main characters are Ryan Cooper and Sasha Sexton who were childhood sweethearts until one night changed their lives. Fast forward 10 years and Ryan is the hottest rockstar ever and Sasha is managing her parents' hotel and raising her younger sister. Ryan travels back in the hopes of curing his writers block only - that doesn't seem to be the only thing that finds its cure! Will these two find their forever love?!? A feel good rom - com you won't be able to put down!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Huxley Castle is crumbling but Sasha is determined to keep things patched and running. It’s the last thing she and her sisters have of their parents. Raising two siblings at the age of eighteen on top of that and losing your soulmate the same night as your parents was a challenged few could conquer. But conquer she does. Now Ryan Runaway-Cooper is back to try and break his writers block. His record label is pushing for new material or he’s a goner. He’s always pined for the girl he had to leave. Will she forgive him? Can they find a way forward with all their baggage? It’s a rocky road but well worth the bumps for the happy ever after they get. I definitely recommend this new series. Looking forward to the next sisters story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The most glamorous, glorious, heat-filled festive read! GO READ IT!
Oh my goodness. THIS BOOK. I absolutely devoured it. It’s the ultimate indulgence—a sexy, spicy, clever tale that delivers from page one.
Firstly, the premise is amazing. Bad-boy, talented local pops your cherry and then disappears off to the US that same night? Without you? And without an explanation? Only to reappear at your family’s gorgeous but in-need-of-investment castle hotel ten years later, when he’s one of the hottest rock stars on the planet? SIGN. ME. UP.
The tension and angst and HEAT between Sasha and Ryan was off the charts, and I was there for every second of it. It was such a treat to spend time in the stunning, festive Huxley castle with these two and their insane chemistry. And when they gave into the inevitable, the spice was FABULOUS.
Enjoy, and remember a romance this excellent isn’t just for Christmas!
A second chance at romance for the former high school sweethearts. Ten years later after dealing with tragedies and trying to keep the family hotel (castle) running and raising both younger sisters, everything changes. He re-enters her life renting a suite for quiet ti write new songs and music.
I enjoyed getting to know each character well, their feelings and thought processes. An enjoyable pace turner that’s relaxing to read. *I was given a copy via BookSirens and am voluntarily giving my honest review.
I loved this book so much! Sasha and Ryan’s love story is the perfect winter romance. Perfect to read while cozied up with a mug of hot coco next to a warm fire! I don’t want to give too much away about the story itself, but the characters are endearing, the romance is hot and the setting is wonderful; a castle at Christmas time! I truly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read what’s next for the Sexton sisters…and Jayden!
Be sure to have some tissues with you when you start this one. Ohmigod…this one literally will break your heart! The storyline is totally incredible; the characters continually surprise; the plot twists and turns keep you guessing; and the HEA is totally awesome. This one literally blew me away…it was truly amazing. (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and was totally amazed by it. Some great storytelling here!) ❤️❤️❤️
Okay to start it I am OBSESSED with everything to do with this series. The book being set at Christmas time just made it all that better it gave me the most cozy and warm vibes and I loved it, I am a sucker for Christmas and romance so this book was right up my alley. Sasha is such an incredible women and one of the best main characters i’ve read about. Learning her backstory and how she is in the situation she is now is heartbreaking but equally inspirational and Ryan he has to be the sweetest book boyfriend ever he had me swooning in basically every chapter, the love he has for Sasha is something else and the way he shows it so sweet that boy would go above and beyond for her and had me sobbing. I also loved Sasha’s sisters their sisterly bond is unbeatable. Sasha and Ryan’s story isn’t an easy one and it had me praying for a happy ending, a Christmas miracle because they both deserve nothing but happiness and love. If you don’t believe in soulmates after reading this you 100% will. From the love, lust, loss and heartbreak this is just a perfect book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the first book I have read by Lyndsey Gallagher and it won't be the last! The young love that Sasha and Ryan shared had be me drawn in from the very beginning and I couldn't wait to see that love blossom into their adult lives.
Sasha experienced such immense loss 10 years ago and was never able to get over her first love. When Ryan returns to Ireland close to the Christmas holiday she never expected to discover the love that she once lost.
This story gives us so many details of the life Sasha lives in Ireland and the life Ryan lived after being forced to leave. I was immediately transported to Huxley Castle and the bustling season.
The love Ryan has for Sasha is so profound and heartfelt that it melts your heart. This was the perfect read leading up to the holiday season. It's so heartwarming to see that first love can be your true love.
There is certainly something to be said about falling in love over the holidays. I really enjoyed the settings and atmosphere created in the story. A beautifully lit castle in Ireland, 15ft Christmas tree, all of the holiday décor, what more could you ask for?
I will say that plot twist was a bit predictable (for me) but I did really enjoy how the whole situation was handled. All of the main characters were well rounded with deep backstories and that really helped me connect which each of them. Sasha is the fiercely strong heroine of our story and the challenges she has had to overcome are not light or easy. My one problem with her character is how quickly she softens to Ryan when he reappears in her life. It felt that after years of resentment there would be more reluctance on her part.
Ryan is an emotionally stunted rockstar. It doesn't surprise me that he finds inspiration for his music by returning to his roots. There's a lot to be said for coming "home" to experience emotional development. The chemistry between Ryan and Sasha is hot, hot, hot though.
All in all I did enjoy this story, there was just a bit of instant forgiveness that took away from the realism for me. Abandonment is a strong emotion to overcome, especially given the circumstances surrounding it.
What can I say about Sasha and Ryan? Their tale is a unique spin on second-chance lovers, with twists and turns at every corner. It leaves you wondering if they will ever be able to work it out and find happiness. The story pulls you in and holds on throughout. The final twist I did not see coming and pulled everything together uniquely. I suggest this book to anyone who loves second-chance lovers and Christmas and of course HEA.
My Big Fat Fabulous Christmas If there was ever two star crossed lovers, it would be Sasha Sexton and Ryan Cooper. Young love is hard to get past, and so it has been for the past ten years! Ryan’s father dragged him to the US from Ireland in a rush to avoid the consequences of his crimes! While Sasha was left behind to run her family’s luxury Huxley Castle hotel and raise her much younger sister when her parents died in a car accident! She always thought that Ryan abandoned her, and hated him for that. Ten years later he’s back. Still as handsome as ever, and now a rock superstar. But he still wants her! Can she get past all the hurt and feelings of inferiority? Can she let herself love him again? Will this be her best Christmas ever, or will Ryan leave again? This is my first book by Lyndsey Gallagher, and I loved it!
I for some reason thought this was a short story, I was pleasantly surprised for it to be a full length story. I even rolled my eyes at the 1st chapter, knowing all to well the man she was with was not going to last. That’s what I get. This was such a great story, so many different emotions. I love these kind of reads. You think you know what’s going to happen, but not this time. Kudos to the author!
Often when I know I will be writing an arc review, I have a note pad going on my phone where I can collect my thoughts while I working my way through the book.
Other then one quote I have no notes as I didn’t want to stop reading long enough to write anything. And I definitely stayed up way past my bedtime to finish the book!
This second chance lovers story pulled on all the heart strings. You can’t help but root for these two and feel all their emotions along with them.
This quote pretty much sums up how this book made me feel:
“I’m done with caution. I want to make you mine again, right here, right now.”
This was my first book by this author but it definitely won’t be my last! I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was really really lucky to be sent at arc of this book and let me tell you that i really really enjoyed it. I know we’re only in october but it really got me in a christmassy mood.
I normally don’t like second chance romance but I feel like what happened between Sasha and Ryan was meant to happen for them to be able to come back to each other. I also normally feel like in a second chance that one of the main characters are to blame but in this case it was a simple miscommunication that seperated them.
I loved how honest and open Ryan was about his feelings for Sasha and never afraid to tell her how he felt. I also loved how Sasha was cold towards Ryan but not out of hatred but because she was guarding her heart.
In all it was a sweet and cozy christmassy romance story
I finished this book in 2 days! Such a feel good rom-com and perfect for the lead up to Christmas.
I loved the two main characters and their love story. I have read all of Lyndsey Gallaghers books to date and this one did not disappoint. Would highly recommend this book if you want to tune out of the real world for a while and enjoy all that Sasha and Ryan have to offer.
Its even better that there will be a follow on book looking at Chloes story next. Looking forward to it already.
My Big Fat Fabulous Christmas - what can I say?! I’m still fanning myself - those steamy scenes! Sasha is one lucky lady.
I’ve been a fan of Lyndsey’s books for sometime now but this one is a whole new level. We’ve got rockstars, castles, Vegas, Ireland, designer dresses, a Christmas ball and of course … an absolutely sultry and desirable love story.
This will definitely give you a festive glow and warm up a chilly evening!
Having read (and loved) all of Lyndsey’s books so far, I can honestly say this one has been my favourite. I was torn between not wanting to put it down but also trying not to read too quickly as I didn’t want it to end… but I’m glad to see there is more to come from these families in the not too distant future. I’m off to pre order the next instalment immediately!
This is the perfect winter read, and I loved discovering Sasha and Ryan’s stories and secrets from both sides! Don’t hesitate to find out for yourself, it really doesn’t disappoint!!!
I want a love like the one in this book. Where it is just undeniable no matter how long or how far apart you are. The book starts out with terrible heart breaks for everyone. It isn't until the end of the book that they start to heal. Sasha is a very relatable character. She is so strong even after everything she has had thrown her way. She has found a way to stay happy and keep things going. Ryan is a superstar so he is less relatable, but still a great guy. When he finds things out about what has happened to Sasha he tries to help her feel better. He does what he can to make up for the past ten years. He sees her as a goddess and wants to give her the world. I liked the plot as well. It truly shows what it takes to gain someone's trust back. It is also filled with the Christmas spirit so it is perfect to read in December. It also has a great level of spice. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love love love this book so much. Mrs G is back, polishing the crown and reminding us why she is a queen of romantic comedy.
This is a book that starts with two teens, young and besotted with each other. Then we jump forward ten years. Sasha is a strong, fierce independent woman with a lot of struggles and heartache behind her. Owning a castle, bringing up siblings and dealing with the heartache of loss is hard.
I have loved Sasha from the beginning. Gallagher has made me feel the heartache of losing a first love all over again (thanks for that one- lol). Initially, I didn’t like Ryan- I mean come on, this is the same creator of the gorgeous Callum. However, Ryan has definitely grown on me as I’ve read. He has managed to thaw the ice queen and make me root for him in this one.
True love never runs smooth, Mrs G shows us that with this one. There are hurdles, moments I’ve gasped and wanted to shout at her but this book wouldn’t be the spectacular read it is without these events in place.
I have been completely transported to the pages of this one. This is a real talent of the author’s- you feel as though you know the characters and the places, as well as being completely caught up in their emotions.
Reading this book, I definitely can’t wait to get into the festive spirit (it’s August, high temperatures) and I’m ready to put up my Christmas tree and start singing Christmas cheer. This is an absolute gem of a book.
I’ve read all of Lyndsey’s books and this is definitely a favourite. I have devoured this book in just one sitting. I absolutely cannot say anything negative about this book. This is a gem which should not be missed. A book truly worthy of all the praise. I have loved this book and have no hesitation in recommending this book, or any of Lyndsey’s books.