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The Best Christmas Ever
This edition is no longer available.
Brandon wasn't entirely comfortable about his relationship with Donnie, his simple-minded live-in lover for whom every Christmas is "the best Christmas ever". What was a mature, independent person like himself doing sexually involved with a childish and mildly retarded man?
CONTENT ADVISORY: This title includes some elements of dubious consent.
Brandon wasn't entirely comfortable about his relationship with Donnie, his simple-minded live-in lover for whom every Christmas is "the best Christmas ever". What was a mature, independent person like himself doing sexually involved with a childish and mildly retarded man?
CONTENT ADVISORY: This title includes some elements of dubious consent.
37 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2011
About the author
Anel Viz
20 books31 followersAnel Viz, born and raised in New York City, currently resides in the Midwest, where he has taught at the same small liberal arts college for over thirty years. He has lived about one-quarter of his life in French-speaking countries. He returned to his childhood passion of writing at age sixty, and ever since he has churned out works in a variety of M/M genres: poetry, short and novel-length fiction, humor, essays, etc. He likes to experiment. Though most of his stories are romances, few of them would be called traditional romance. His work appears regularly in Wilde Oats and GayFlashFiction online magazines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 16, 2012
This is a very tricky subject to write, but I think the author managed it just right.
At first I was a little uncomfortable with the way Donnie was so childlike, but as the story progressed it became clear that Donnie wasn’t so much childish as more he had a simple out look on life. Something that maybe more of us could do with.
Brandon felt a little cold at times, always trying to see the “why” of their relationship instead of just enjoying it. He really redeemed himself for me though after the first “party”.
A moving and well written love story.
ETA Still a sweet Christmas read
At first I was a little uncomfortable with the way Donnie was so childlike, but as the story progressed it became clear that Donnie wasn’t so much childish as more he had a simple out look on life. Something that maybe more of us could do with.
Brandon felt a little cold at times, always trying to see the “why” of their relationship instead of just enjoying it. He really redeemed himself for me though after the first “party”.
A moving and well written love story.
ETA Still a sweet Christmas read
December 12, 2011
This is an amazing and very cute story about the nature of love. It made me smile, it made me think and it touched me deeply. The dedication says (in part): “For all those mismatched couples whose devotion is stronger than their differences.” And Brandon and Donnie are very different in some ways, but, clearly not in ways that count for them.
Brandon tells the story, in a way that makes it clear he is trying to figure out why he’s been with Donnie, who is rather simple-minded, for almost 13 years now. Following the events of how they met, how Brandon figured out that Donnie was somewhat retarded and how he struggled with whether that was even important to him, gave me a glimpse of their life together. The whole story is written in that format; little scenes that remind Brandon of one aspect of another of his relationship with Donnie. Ultimately, those moments are like puzzle pieces that give Brandon the answer he is looking for.
If you like sweet stories, if you’re looking for something to make you think, and if you’re interested in understanding the nature of love a little better, this will do all three for you. It is also a great Christmas story and a wonderfully warm read. I totally loved it!
NOTE: This book was provided by Silver Publishing for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online
Brandon tells the story, in a way that makes it clear he is trying to figure out why he’s been with Donnie, who is rather simple-minded, for almost 13 years now. Following the events of how they met, how Brandon figured out that Donnie was somewhat retarded and how he struggled with whether that was even important to him, gave me a glimpse of their life together. The whole story is written in that format; little scenes that remind Brandon of one aspect of another of his relationship with Donnie. Ultimately, those moments are like puzzle pieces that give Brandon the answer he is looking for.
If you like sweet stories, if you’re looking for something to make you think, and if you’re interested in understanding the nature of love a little better, this will do all three for you. It is also a great Christmas story and a wonderfully warm read. I totally loved it!
NOTE: This book was provided by Silver Publishing for the purpose of a review on Queer Magazine Online
March 19, 2012
"What's in it for me?"
Perhaps there is no phrase in English language that epitomizes individualism better than the question. In this framework, relationship would always involve some form of give and take, an exchange. While most people in relationship don't do the calculus in their head (except perhaps econ students), they can easily provide the answer to the question.
Not Brandon, a sophisticated New Yorker with a grad degree. For almost 13 years, he has been asking the question himself --initially triggered by his friend's comments when Branndon brought Donnie -- his intellectually challenged boyfriend --to a party. He was not ashamed of Donnie, but he'd like to know the answer: is it the great sex they had? Pity? Protectiveness?
I really enjoyed reading this story.
Perhaps there is no phrase in English language that epitomizes individualism better than the question. In this framework, relationship would always involve some form of give and take, an exchange. While most people in relationship don't do the calculus in their head (except perhaps econ students), they can easily provide the answer to the question.
Not Brandon, a sophisticated New Yorker with a grad degree. For almost 13 years, he has been asking the question himself --initially triggered by his friend's comments when Branndon brought Donnie -- his intellectually challenged boyfriend --to a party. He was not ashamed of Donnie, but he'd like to know the answer: is it the great sex they had? Pity? Protectiveness?
I really enjoyed reading this story.
January 11, 2012
Donnie was a sweet thing and I really loved his part on the book.
Brandon is a prick. Come on, you stay 10 years living together and wondering 'What's in it for me'???? After all this time he still don't know?
Very enjoyable reading, but couldn't warm up on Brandon (didn't like him - not even in the end of the book...) - Really couldn't see his love for Donnie.
Brandon is a prick. Come on, you stay 10 years living together and wondering 'What's in it for me'???? After all this time he still don't know?
Very enjoyable reading, but couldn't warm up on Brandon (didn't like him - not even in the end of the book...) - Really couldn't see his love for Donnie.
April 21, 2012
Sweet story, and ironic that Brandon with all his brains needed Donnie's insight to figure it all out!
February 1, 2019
Sweet (and free) holiday story about an educated man falling in love with a simple minded guy. I usually love this trope and it was quite nice here as well, however as the book is really short it was difficult to connect to these guys and really get to know them, which would have been necessary with this very special plot.
Also I found the end a little too unimaginative, not really bringing the story to a conclusion.
3 stars for me
Also I found the end a little too unimaginative, not really bringing the story to a conclusion.
3 stars for me
May 29, 2012
I'm kind of torn with this story. Part of me thought it was sweet, but another part of me was rubbed the wrong way.
Brandon meets Donnie one evening a couple of days before Christmas while watching kids sled. Emboldened by Donnie's childlike excitement, Brandon strikes up a conversation and the two end up buying sleds and having a great time. As their friendship progresses, Brandon discovers that Donnie is slightly mentally challenged. He can care for himself and function well in society, but his basic knowledge and childlike nature unnerves Brandon at times.
The two men grow closer and eventually develop a physical and emotional bond.
Had this been it, everything would have been cool. However, it was the constant questioning of "what's in it for me?" by Brandon and others that really started to grate my nerves. Donnie practically worshipped the ground Brandon walked on, but Brandon always held back and viewed just about everything in their relationship as work. He knew what Donnie was getting out of the relationship (friendship, safety, companionship, sex, etc.), but he could never figure out what he was getting out of it. The only thing he could really pinpoint was great sex.
Donnie was such a wonderful character and made me smile whenever he was featured. However, I can't help but feel that he deserved much, much more than Brandon. He found happiness, but it still seemed one-sided. For someone so sweet and pure-hearted, that's a real shame.
Brandon meets Donnie one evening a couple of days before Christmas while watching kids sled. Emboldened by Donnie's childlike excitement, Brandon strikes up a conversation and the two end up buying sleds and having a great time. As their friendship progresses, Brandon discovers that Donnie is slightly mentally challenged. He can care for himself and function well in society, but his basic knowledge and childlike nature unnerves Brandon at times.
The two men grow closer and eventually develop a physical and emotional bond.
Had this been it, everything would have been cool. However, it was the constant questioning of "what's in it for me?" by Brandon and others that really started to grate my nerves. Donnie practically worshipped the ground Brandon walked on, but Brandon always held back and viewed just about everything in their relationship as work. He knew what Donnie was getting out of the relationship (friendship, safety, companionship, sex, etc.), but he could never figure out what he was getting out of it. The only thing he could really pinpoint was great sex.
Donnie was such a wonderful character and made me smile whenever he was featured. However, I can't help but feel that he deserved much, much more than Brandon. He found happiness, but it still seemed one-sided. For someone so sweet and pure-hearted, that's a real shame.
December 16, 2012
A very touching story that centers on a man's need to know why he loves his partner. Brandon and Donnie have been together almost 13 years. From the beginning Brandon has been questioning the reason why he is with Donnie. He acknowledges that he enjoys Donnie's company and likes that he is his center of attention. He likes being needed, but he can't help but feel guilty that he is taking advantage of Donnie or feel like taking care of Donnie is a big responsibility.
Brandon tells the story of how they met and all that went along with it. From the first time they got together through his hesitations and misgivings to finding the answer to the question that has hunted him from the beginning - "What's in it for me?"
I enjoyed the glimpses into their past and into their current life. Through it I could see how much Brandon had come to care about Donnie through the years. They might have been different and their relationship a little more uncommon than most, but it was real and honest and in the end it didn't matter what he gained from his relationship with Donnie. What mattered was that he was in a relationship with Donnie because he loved him and he was loved in return.
Brandon tells the story of how they met and all that went along with it. From the first time they got together through his hesitations and misgivings to finding the answer to the question that has hunted him from the beginning - "What's in it for me?"
I enjoyed the glimpses into their past and into their current life. Through it I could see how much Brandon had come to care about Donnie through the years. They might have been different and their relationship a little more uncommon than most, but it was real and honest and in the end it didn't matter what he gained from his relationship with Donnie. What mattered was that he was in a relationship with Donnie because he loved him and he was loved in return.
December 15, 2011
I've only read a few things by Anel Viz so far, but I have bought a number of his books and they are in my TBR pile. I need to move them up the list.
I was really moved by this piece. It's a story about love between two very different people and how they each exist in the "relationship" that they are in. Brandon's examination of why he wants to be with Donnie and how he decides how to proceed with him and their relationship is so touching. It's unconventional - but it works.
I remember hearing repeatedly when I broke up with my ex after 15 years - "I always wondered why she was with him" - mostly from my mother who was supposedly quoting her friends, but who seemed to relish the demise of our relationship. I wondered who should have been more insulted by that statement? Why is it that people on the outside think they need to/have the right to judge what it is that others "get" or "need" out of their relationships?
Absolutely beautiful. I know I'll be rereading this one. Well done.
I was really moved by this piece. It's a story about love between two very different people and how they each exist in the "relationship" that they are in. Brandon's examination of why he wants to be with Donnie and how he decides how to proceed with him and their relationship is so touching. It's unconventional - but it works.
I remember hearing repeatedly when I broke up with my ex after 15 years - "I always wondered why she was with him" - mostly from my mother who was supposedly quoting her friends, but who seemed to relish the demise of our relationship. I wondered who should have been more insulted by that statement? Why is it that people on the outside think they need to/have the right to judge what it is that others "get" or "need" out of their relationships?
Absolutely beautiful. I know I'll be rereading this one. Well done.
September 21, 2012
This was a very interesting and thought provoking story. Would you stay in a relationship with someone who is mildly retarded? Could you? This book raises many important questions about such a relationship, and while it doesn't give you all the answers, it gives the important ones for Brandon and Donny. I love the ending and I would definitely recommend this heartwarming story.
November 13, 2016
Sweet short story of a accidental but significant meeting between Brandon & Tommy. Brandon never saw himself in a relationship with anyone like Tommy. We watch Brandon question what he would see in someone like Tommy. Read this short story and you'll find the answer. It's indeed a good read!
December 5, 2011
A bit strange but surprisingly sweet short novella. The question "Why?" Malcolm developed a relationship with Donnie, was to many time used, but hey I liked the concept in general. It was positive.
January 5, 2012
Fascinating concept that I would have loved to see explored in greater length and depth. Well done and enjoyable, as well as thought-provoking.
March 19, 2012
Not sure why the content advisory - there is no dubious consent in this book. Just because one of the characters is a little dumb doesn't mean he can't consent (and enthusiastically).
July 26, 2017
Brandon irked me a little. After all those years, you can't answer a question?
nope
March 6, 2022ummmm wtf @ this blurb
![Profile Image for annob [on hiatus].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1674812294i/68231680._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
December 4, 2017
A short novella with a quiet, gentle voice explores why anyone still wants to be in a relationship with their life partner several years down the road from the start of it. Unusual in several ways, and a lovely ending.
January 13, 2012
It grated on my nerves that Brandon did not know what was in it for him? I was at the edge of my seat the entire time thinking there would be a point that he would dump or mistreat Donnie. It broke my heart that Donnie's world would shatter if Brandon decided to dump him. What was in it for Brandon? Unconditional love from a man who will never lie to you DOPE! You have a lover, friend, child, protege, devoted admirer and a care giver who cooks for you and makes you his world. That is a lot more than what 90% of people in relationships have. his quality of life has certainly improved...
For someone who was supposed to be brilliant and sophisticated it took simpleton Donnie to make Brandon realize he was with him simple because Brandon has loved him for a long time.
I was happy for Donnie that he found someone who did not abuse his trust and love and has the means to take care of him as well as teach him.
For someone who was supposed to be brilliant and sophisticated it took simpleton Donnie to make Brandon realize he was with him simple because Brandon has loved him for a long time.
I was happy for Donnie that he found someone who did not abuse his trust and love and has the means to take care of him as well as teach him.
July 24, 2014
This was such a sweet read..I absolutely loved Donnie...He was so sweet...innocent..talkative and so in love with Branden.....Branden I didn't take to as much but I think he had Donnies best interests at heart even if he couldn't get "what was in if for him"...Donnies love of course...Donnies This is the best ever was so adorable.....I hated Sheila (Donnies case worker) total bitch and his brother was just as bad..thank god they weren't in it much...Totally adorable and sweet read x
November 29, 2014
I was very apprehensive when I started reading this story. The warning scared me: CONTENT ADVISORY - This title includes some elements of dubious consent. But it had lots of positive reviews and an average rating of 3.71 so I took a chance. So glad I did. This is a sweet, heartwarming tale. In my opinion the author handled the sensitive subject matter beautifully.
This one left me smiling for days. Recommended!
This one left me smiling for days. Recommended!
December 29, 2011
I like reading about different types of love and relationships. This one was a new one for me. It packed a long span of time into few words, and I'm still trying to decide if that was good or bad. Regardless, if you're open to reading about a romance that is not the standard HEA, give this one a try.
December 26, 2011
Short and sweet. Donnie is lovable and I can absolutely see his appeal. I don't know that I see Brandon's appeal but... I love the store of Donnie and Brandon but really disliked how the story ended. The ending felt a little weak for such a sweet story.
January 2, 2012
A reliable, sweet reread for me around the holidays. I wish it were back in print somewhere. It would be great if it were to be self-published. I believe several of my Gay Book Forum friends would really like it.
March 24, 2012
A strange and sensitive story about a gay man who falls in love with a gay mentally retarded man. this book is about respect, dignity, and getting beyond noundaries where love is concerned. As a reader and author with a disability, I appreciated this sweet story.
December 3, 2012
I really like the simplicity of this story that exams what could be a complex questions for any type of relationship. What's in it for me? This story flowed naturally through the life of Donnie and Brandon and didn't feel the need for trite or pat answers.
December 28, 2016
I'm not really sure how I felt about this story. Uncomfortable, I guess, since one MC seems so simple-minded. However, it wasn't just that issue, it was how the other MC viewed him and the "relationship." It did end well, but throughout I had this knot in my stomach.
December 14, 2011
Sweet story...I enjoyed reading this one and liked how it covered snippets of the couple over the years.
December 17, 2011
Very sweet story
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews