Matzoh and Mistletoe

by Jodie Griffin

Every December twenty-fifth, Rebeccah Rickman volunteers through her synagogue so that others can celebrate Christmas. Her usual mitzvah, or good deed, is assisting police officer Jeremy Kohler. But this year is this year, Becca is free to act on the attraction that has long simmered between her and the sexy cop.

Jeremy couldn’t have asked for a better gift than discovering the woman he’s fantasized about for five long years is single. But when he learns about the violence that broke up Becca’s marriage, he’s hesitant to pursue her. He fears his desires will scare her away—but can’t deny his own need for control in the bedroom. Or his longing to instruct her in the fine art of submission…

Becca is shocked to learn that Jeremy is a sexual dominant. And despite her past, she’s also aroused. But before she can explore what that means, she’s going to have to put her trust in Jeremy—and her own fledgling desires.

Genres: Romance, Holiday, Novella, Erotica, BDSM, Contemporary, Christmas

145 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 21, 2013

Reviews

[Alex (HEABookNerd) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved MATZOH AND MISTLETOE and this is my favorite Jodie Griffin book so far! Griffin's writing is so incredibly engaging -- add in some seriously sexy chemistry and enjoyable characters and I'm set. Becca and Jeremy were great and they make a perfect couple. Jeremy has wanted Becca since he first met her but she was a married woman so he made do with twice a year visits. Jeremy was charming, protective, and gentle with Becca as he introduces her to the world of kink and BDSM. I just loved every part of him!

Becca is also a fantastic character, she's sweet, compassionate, and dedicated to those she cares about. Now that she's single she's interested in seeing where things might go with Jeremy but she also has some issues to work through as she moves on from her ex-husband's hurtful words and abuse. I loved watching Becca come out of her shell and find the strong and sexy woman she's kept locked away. Jeremy and Becca's chemistry jumps off the page and this book was on fire!


Content Warning: Becca was emotionally and mentally abused by her husband for several years until he eventually hit her, resulting in her leaving him.

[Books & Vodka Sodas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, it would appear that my strange need for holiday reads has landed me yet another great BDSM read.

I was very worried about this one when I dove into it. It was walking on that turf with some domestic abuse, and the lead female needing some more intense play in the bedroom. When it was discovered that Rebeccah had all these desires while in her emotionally and verbally abusive relationship--I knew that I would be able to enjoy this story. I enjoyed it more because you weren't dealing with a man that as Dominant and uncaring. He didn't go balls to the walls and demand she get over her abuse with whips and chains. He literally baby steps her into it, even if she is annoyed by the baby steps, I was so proud of Jodie for doing this! I appreciated the story on so many levels for her not using the BDSM as a form of therapy.

The lead characters NEEDS it, she doesn't WANT it as a means to get over her abuse. That would have put me off.

And Jeremy... Oh, Jeremy how do I love thee!

Once you goes into Dom mode, I think my tummy bottomed out and my whole body got the tingles. Let me give you an example shall I?



I found that he was one of the most well written sugar kink doms. That could be because I got sick of all the same ole' same ole' pseudo Christian Grey mildly abusive doms that every woman swoons over.

Well, I swooened over Jeremy. Because once he was certain her could handle Becca with his full board doms hands--the games were on.

The book was sexy and had a ton of heart with is what I look for in Holiday reads. I believed that these two people were in love, and could last. Becca wasn't a push over. She owned herself and her sexuality even after the horrible marriage she had been stuck in for years.

I felt her struggles when she tried to ask Jeremy what she needed. I heart wept for her. It was honestly one of the best BDSM romance stories I have read. It was unique, sweet, and was able to be super sexy at the same time.

I was a touch disappointed with how easy the ex was handled. He was built up a bit and then ended up being just a big wimp with a whole lot of threats and not a lot of action. At the end of the day I recommend this to all my BDSM readers. Even if it ain't Christmas, this ebook is a deal at $2.51 on Amazon!



*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review from Carina Press via NetGalley*

[Heroesinbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Rebeccah and Jeremy Stars

This was a sexy, quick read that was perfect for the festive period. Rebeccah has been pitching in to support the local community every Christmas and Easter to help ensure that those who celebrate those festive periods can do so. Those that don't celebrate , like Rebeccah , ride out with the local PD (among other things) and for the last 5 years, Rebeccah has been riding out with Jeremy who has long harboured a crush on her. Finally she is single and suddenly all bets are off. Jeremy is a dominant and at first is worried that this will not be something Rebeccah would want to be any part of but they are both surprised when she discovers that she is curious about his lifestyle.
This is a pretty hot book with very likeable characters. Great way to spend a couple of hours during the Holidays.

HEA? Yes
Cheating? No

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read as part of the Season of Seduction anthology

Buddy read with Sarah

I'm not sure if I just missed reading the blurb for this one, or if I forgot it, but I had no idea what to expect when I opened this book up. Another friends-to-lovers story and I was instantly hooked.

Becca was a great character. Strong and vulnerable at the same time. I understood what drew Jeremy to her. She has a great sense of humor, a backbone, and a playful personality. What I really liked about Jeremy is that he was fun - he liked to laugh and tease, not something I see in a lot of the Doms I read about, so it was a really nice change.

Speaking of, I had no idea there was going to be BDSM in this book. I'm pretty picky about how the lifestyle is portrayed in the BDSM books I read, so it was a wonderful surprise to find another author I can trust. I loved how she portrayed the relationship building between Jeremy and Becca - especially with Becca coming out an emotionally, verbally, and physically abusive relationship.

Though I did feel like things rushed a bit quickly, I was happy to let that go and be swept away by the story and the happiness these two were building.

I'll definitely be looking for more from Jodie Griffin soon.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this novella as part of the Season of Seduction anthology.

For the last five years Becca has volunteered with the police department every Christmas and Easter and over that time she has become good friends with Jeremy. There has always been a spark between them but until recently Becca was married and unable to take things further. Jeremy has had feelings for Becca for a long time and now that he knows she is single he is hoping to show her how good they could be together. However, when he realises her husband abused her he worries that she will be put off by the fact that he is a Dom. He is sure he has seen signs of her submissive side but doesn't want to push her too hard and scare her away forever.

I'm going to come straight out with it and tell you Jeremy is HOT, I completely fell for his character and I'm sure a lot of other people will too. I will admit to feeling that the relationship development moves a little too quickly in this novella but I enjoyed the story so much I was happy to forgive that. I think one of the things I liked most about Matzoh and Mistletoe is that it goes to great lengths to show the differences between a D/s relationship and an abusive one. It is one thing to give control to someone voluntarily and another thing entirely for someone to take your control away by force. Jeremy is very patient with Becca when he explains the difference and I appreciated that about him, I also loved the way he was so gentle with her and talked through her fears because of the things her ex had done.

Becca has always had desires that her husband wasn't willing to fulfil, he made her feel dirty and wrong because she wanted to experiment in the bedroom so she has learnt to push her needs to one side. Jeremy encourages her to express herself, he wants her to feel free to tell him her deepest, darkest fantasies and assures her that nothing she comes up with will shock him. It was nice to see Becca start to come out of her shell and realise that there is nothing wrong with her because of her kinks. I also really loved how she realised that there is a big difference between being weak and being submissive. This was my first story by Jodie Griffin but I really enjoyed it and will definitely be reading more by her in the future.

[Crazy for Books (Stephanie) · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC provided by publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.

Rebeccah Rickman has been volunteering at the Maryland police department every Christmas day for the past five years so that others may have time with their families. its something her family had done her whole life and something she continued when she moved after marrying, although her husband didn't agree. And for the past five years she's been partnered with the sexy-as-sin Officer First Class Jeremy Kohler.

There's been an undeniable attraction between the two of them, but this time things are different because Rebeccah is no longer married. But the reason for her divorce could keep her from being with the "Dom in cop's clothing."

Once Jeremy finds out about Rebeccah's divorce, it's a blessing and a curse. He can now express is attraction to her, but when he finds out why she's divorced, he's not sure if they can be together. Because his particular brand of Dominance could feel like abuse to her.

Although I believe that spousal abuse in any form is an extremely important issue, this seemed to make the story drag a bit for me. Rebeccah couldn't seem to always distinguish the difference between her ex-husbands particular brand of verbal and physical abuse and Jeremy's Dominance in a sexual nature. Unfortunately it just went back and forth too much. And when Sam, the ex-husband showed up, it felt anti-climactic.

[Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca Rickman spends every Christmas and Easter volunteering at the police department. She always partners up with the sexy Officer First Class Jeremy Kohler. This year though they are both single and the attraction won’t be held back, not even after she learns about his sexual preferences.

This book was so good. I loved Rebecca and Jeremy’s sexy relationship. They slowly work through all of Rebecca’s trust issues after being abused emotionally, and physically by her ex-husband. She really has problems in the beginning with the dom/sub lifestyle but the more she learns, the more she realizes it’s not abusive, it's actually caring. I loved how emotional those scenes were and how much Rebecca grows over this book. She goes from being a strong woman who is worn down, to reemerging as a confident woman who knows what she wants in the bedroom.

I do wish this was a little bit longer because I wasn’t ready for it to end.

____________________________________________
Romanceopoly 2020 - Moon - Winter

[Shelly Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maztoh and Mistletoe,a novella, accomplished the incredibly difficult task of successfully fictionalizing the establishment of a new D/s relationship and demonstrating the differences between an abusive relationship versus a consensual alternative one.

Since the main characters have known each other for five years, you would've expected things to heat up quickly between them now that her divorce was finalized, but Jeremy took the time to ease Rebeccah into the lifestyle. He respects her hard limits and improves her self-esteem, which is the opposite of what occurred in her vanilla marriage.

I also loved the whole "Good Jewish Girl" syndrome she suffered from as a result of being told she had to behave a certain way by both her mom and ex-husband. You could substitute the word Jewish with any other religion and it still fits. The book shows the way you choose to express your sexuality has nothing to do with whether you're a good person or not.

Great holiday kink book!

[Rachel Kramer Bussel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanilla meets kinky with some very intense sex scenes. Read my full review at Heroes & Heartbreakers: http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com...

[Simply Love Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Slick‘s review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews

Review copy provided for an honest review

4 STARS

There are some authors who write hardcore BDSM and there are others that write what I call BDSM light and Jodie Griffin is the master of BDSM light. I love that she touches on the subject giving readers who aren’t sure about the topic a taste so they aren’t scared of it, but enough to know if they’d like to read something more hard core. For that alone I enjoyed Matzoh and Mistletoe because I think it will help readers who aren’t sure about the topic feel a little more comfortable with it just like the heroine, Rebeccah Rickman.

Rebeccah has been volunteering through her synagogue every Christmas and Easter for five years with her local police station. For five years she’s ridden along with Officer Jeremy Kohler and she’s always enjoyed the time they spent together twice a year until last Easter when he was different. So she’s surprised when he informs her he’s requested her as his ride along partner this Christmas but she goes with it, hoping they’ll be able to talk and she’ll be able to share the changes in her life.

I like that this couple had some history even though it wasn’t deep or personal. They were familiar with each other and both agreed there was some attraction between them. So when Rebeccah announces that she’s now divorced, Jeremy knows he can now make a move on the beautiful woman he’s wanted for years, he’s just not sure if she can handle his needs. There was a huge learning curve between these two, Jeremy being a dom recognized signs of submissiveness in Rebeccah, but she recoiled from that word because she refuses to be a “doormat” ever again. Let’s just say Rebeccah’s marriage didn’t end well and it takes everything Jeremy has to not track down her ex and do something about it. It also has given Rebeccah some major issues with intimacy and trust.

I liked both of these characters but I would have liked to have more time with them. There were elements that felt rushed and even Jeremy realized he rushed through some of the finer points of BDSM because he was just so excited for finally have Rebeccah in his life. Rebeccah confused me because she was so outspoken one moment but then timid and shy the next and while I can understand she was dealing with some past experience demons, I would have like to see her attitude and strength come through a little more.

This is a good introduction to BDSM, the story was good, and it was a nice change of pace for a holiday story. I very much enjoyed Matzoh and Mistletoe despite the fact that I wish we’d had more time to see these two figuring out their relationship on a deeper level.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matzoh and Mistletoe is a novella of about 38,000 words that follows the story of Becca and Jeremy. As with many shorter length stories, the hero and heroine are known to each other. The background between the two is well laid-out, and one feels as though one knows these two within a few pages. The author does a great job laying the groundwork of sexual tension between these two right from the beginning which helps understand the faster pace of this story as compared to a full length novel.
As Becca and Jeremy come clean about their respective pasts and begin navigating a tricky (if exciting) present, we get to go along for the ride. This book does a terrific job showing what an introduction to the BDSM lifestyle might be like. We get hints of the more hardcore stuff, but Becca and Jeremy keep things pretty light while we are with them. This was brilliantly handled by the author. If you’ve ever wondered what BDSM might be like – this book is an excellent starting place.
There are a couple of reasons why the book didn’t get five hearts, but they are minor. First, I had a hard time believing the premise of the two of them getting together. Why on earth would a police force let civilians just ride along? Maybe such a thing happens, but if so it must be pretty rare. The scenes of the ride-along were distracting to me for this reason. Second, the issue of Becca’s ex is never satisfied to my satisfaction. I was left not knowing if Becca should still be worried about a potential threat from him, and that loose end bugged me as I finished the story.
In the end, though, this was a delightful read with interesting and relatable characters. Its spicy, so be forewarned – but if like me you enjoy some steam with your romance, I totally recommend this book.

Favorite Quote:
He cocked his head. “This doesn’t shock you?”
She gave a half-laugh and continued to fan her face. He could practically see the wheels turning in her brain, could see her tying what had happened at his house to what he’d just told her. “Shock? Yes, it does. I never would’ve guessed that about you. But I don’t think that’s what you mean. You want to know if I’m turned off by it.”
She really didn’t pull any punches. “Yeah.”
“I can think of about twenty different synonyms for the adjective that best describes what I’m feeling, but not a single one is disgust.”

[Kerri (Book Hoarder) · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s no secret that with the introduction of Fifty Shades of Grey and other series, BDSM has moved closer to the forefront of the romance industry, attracting devoted readers of all ages. Sexy and intriguing, personally, I can see why people are so fascinated with this genre.

Matzoh and Mistletoe brings to us the store of Becca, a sweet Jewish woman who has recently divorced her abusive husband, and Jeremy, a cop with a secret dominant side. The two of them have always had sparks, but now that Becca is single again, they are free to finally explore the tension that exists between them.

The sexual tension between the two characters is well developed in the book, and we are given insights into how both of the characters feel, as well. Griffin writes from both perspectives, giving us an idea of how they both feel about the relationship between them, something I appreciated when it comes to the topic of BDSM.

There were a few areas that needed improvement, however. BDSM is a tricky, tricky subject, and I do give Griffin credit - she’s obviously done research into the lifestyle and it is much, much better than some BDSM out there. That said, I still felt as though it was far too rushed, especially considering Sam’s history. The book is rather short, coming in at around 183 pages, and it would have been nice to see more time spent slowly developing the relationship, the trust and the submission. It’s hard to build up a submissive relationship in a story, but it’s essential because it’s such a deep level of trust.

The lack of exploration of Becca’s recovery from divorcing her husband was another problematic matter for me, especially as it relates to BDSM. The story could have used some more exploration of her emotions and feelings - the attempt is definitely made, but it could have used more.

A quick and easy read, I can easily see this story appealing to those who just want a bit of sexy erotica to pass the time, especially with Christmas just a couple of months away. Those who are familiar with the BDSM lifestyle or who have had any experience with domestic violence may find the book lacking, however.

Disclosure: An ARC of this book was provided through Netgalley in return for an honest review.

[Marleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by saying that I adore Jody Griffin's stories. I love her Doms and the strong submissives she creates. Her books and stories, this one included are romantic, sexy and very hot. When she takes her readers into the world of BDSM she introduces them both to the dominating and the caring side of this dynamic. Her Doms, and Jeremy in `Matzoh and Mistletoe' is no exception, are first and foremost loving and caring men who put the needs of the women who submit to them first. They may not be able to deny their need to dominate, they make very sure their submissives get what they want and need. Even if the woman in question doesn't always know theat what she's getting is exactly what she wants.

I loved the care Jeremy took with Becca in this story. Just as I loved Becca's willingness to investigate what the man she had been interested in for five years had to offer, even if it scared her and brought back memories she'd rather forget. This is a tender love story first and foremost with BDSM the vehicle through which the tenderness is shared. It was wonderful to join Becca on her journey while she discovered what her fantasies - the same fantasies her ex-husband had shamed her for - where like when experienced for real. Watching Jeremy while he introduces her to the beauty of power-exchange, taking care to not push her over the edge, was heart-warming.

I'm running out of ways to express how much I enjoyed this book, so let me finish by saying that it's hard not to adore a book that combines a beautiful love story, with smoking hot scenes and a wicked sense of humor.

When I discovered that Jodie Griffin didn't have any plans to return to her Bondage & Breakfast books my heart sank. Having read this book my worries have dissipated. I have ever confidence that this is one author who will not let me down; regardless of the characters she decides to write about.

[Ni_kii · Rating 4 out of 5]

FTC: I requested this book from NetGalley for a fair and honest review. I do love this author’s work and did request the book on the basis of her name.

This novel is a shorty but I liked it. Jeremy was, of course, a lovely Dom who was completely enamored by Becca. I enjoyed his realistic views on their relationship, his admittance that, as much as he liked her, if she wasn’t submissive it was not ever going to work as he couldn’t abandon a part of himself for her. I obviously enjoyed his kinky side but he wasn’t overbearing with it. He let her make up her mind without pushing her into any decisions and respecting her ability to run her own life; he was a nice guy Dom.

Becca was a bit of a mixed bag for me. On the one hand I adored her willingness to explore her sexuality with Jeremy. There was very little that she said no to and so she tried bondage, spanking, wax-play and mild masochism in the space of this little book. She was so eager to put the past behind her that she grabbed onto life with both hands. The issue I with her was the amount of times she compared Jeremy to her ex. He was abusive and that was still a fresh memory for her but I did feel sorry for Jeremy because her constant comparisons made him question his actions towards her. I felt maybe that she wasn’t ready for this type of relationship and that made me a little weary of the HFN. He was more than aware of what he was letting himself in for but I couldn’t help worry that his heart was drowning out some serious warning signs.

The sex was a constant theme throughout the book and it was very much fun. It all had a kinky edge and the chemistry between them was combustible; Jodie Griffin writes very hot sex scenes.


Overall, this was a very sexy novella that definitely had me reaching for the fans. With mild BDSM and lots of hot sex, this one is one for fans of erotic romance.

[Amelia Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an eBook copy from Netgalley for an honest review.

I have not always been a fan of BDSM stories, I feel that sometimes they are just too focused on sex, and I do enjoy a good story along with my hot and steamy. That wasn't a case with this novella. There was a great story and it balanced nicely with the hot and steamy. Also, I liked that the BDSM aspect wasn't so intense that I got turned off by the hot and steamy.

Rebeccah has been volunteering for years on Christmas and Easter so those who celebrate the holidays can be at home with their families. For the last five years, she's been partnered up with a police officer named Jeremy. They have both felt attracted towards the other, but because Rebeccah was married neither one acted on the feelings. This Christmas, however, Rebeccah is single.

Rebeccah left her husband because he was abusive, both mentally and physically. This sets up some interesting scenes in the novella since Jeremy is a sexual dominant. It's a story about trust, and following your heart. Rebeccah wants a relationship with Jeremy and is willing to try, but between his unwillingness to push and her unresolved feelings, it's not an easy journey.

It's not a long journey, I would have really loved to have seen this story stretched out into a full novel. Even saying that, I didn't think the story felt rushed at all, which I really liked.

Originally posted at Little Thoughts About Books.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This a steamy little light BDSM novella. Rebecca Rickman is a jewish girl who likes to help volunteer her time at Christmas helping out at the local police station. Five years ago she when she first volunteers she meets sexy cop Jeremy Kohler. Jeremy finds her sweet and sexy but very married. He knows she's hands off but he can't help his attraction to her so he requests her as his volunteer every year. This year is different though. Becca is now divorced from what turns out is a verbally abusive husband. It took her a while to figure out her marriage was over. The verbal attacks where bad but when he finally strikes her she knows she's all done. Now here she is with Jeremy on patrol and once he finds out she's free he knows he wants her. Problem is he's not sure she can handle the sexual lifestyle he likes. Once they have a discussion about it though Jeremy takes his time slowly introducing her to the D/s type of relationship he enjoys. This is a fast sexy read that's not over the top BDSM. The relationship between the two is hesitant at first as each finally gets the chance to explore what they could have together in a potential relationship and in bed. The only thing i would've liked to see more of is the conflict with Rebecca's ex-husband when he tries to intimidate her at the end. I thought it would be more confrontational. Jodie Griffin does a awesome job as always balancing sexy erotic and sweet story!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an advanced copy of this from NetGalley for my honest review.
This was a great story on how you don’t have to be around someone all the time to realize there is a spark there that can ignite a forest. Rebeccah is learning to take things in stride since the ending of her marriage, but now that she is single for the first time since meeting Jeremy she doesn’t know what to do. She is insanely attracted to him and loves working with him but isn’t sure if she’s ready for something more.
Jeremy has had Rebeccah on his mind for the past 5 years. He may have only spent 10 working days with her in that time but she is all he thinks about and who he compares women he dates too. When he discovers that her and her husband have divorced he is beyond ready for his shift to be over so that they can continue the conversation from the hallway (which is hot).
Watching them discover new things about each other and themselves is fantastic. Jeremy is an amazingly sweet guy no matter what his preferences are in the bed room. Rebeccah is now on a journey to discover who is really is and what she really wants out of a relationship.
This erotic tale was done tastefully and was an extremely sexy read. I can’t wait to see what she comes out with next. 5/5

[Lea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sexy holiday story with just enough kink. For the last five years Rebeccah has served with the local police on Christmas so that others who celebrate can enjoy their holiday. Each year she has been selected to ride along with Jeremy. This year something is different though, this year Becca is divorced from her abusive husband and they are now free to explore their attraction. But Jeremy has another secret, he’s a Dom. Can his need for BDSM and Becca’s past with an abusive ex really be compatible? I really enjoyed watching these two explore their attraction and watching Jeremy help Becca express and enjoy her sexual desires. I thought the writing was smooth and the sex scenes were very hot. My only complaint in this book comes at the end, I would have liked to see more resolution with the ex (cause really I don’t think he’ll just go away now that she’s with Jeremy and told him to go) and I would have loved to see an epilogue so that we could have a glimpse of this couple farther down the road. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Net Galley and the publisher for this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great romance story for any time of the year, not just Christmas or Hanukkah.
Every Christmas and Easter Becca, the nice Jewish girl volunteered her time at the police station. Each time getting to be with Hot Alpha Dom Jeremy, the attraction on both sides smoking. Although Becca didn't know about the Dom part. Becca recently discovered a controlling man and didn't know if she could be what Jeremy wanted from her. But soon Becca realized that's exactly what she wanted to give him.

the scenes were hot but not overly graphic. still made your blood boil.
It was also a nice read because although both characters had major lust for one another they never declared their love to one another after a week!
I would recommend this author and read more from her.

[Sami love's Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fairly quick read about a very sheltered Jewish girl and the Officer she falls in love with.
There wasn't much discussion at all about religion, so other that her being called a "nice Jewish girl" as an insult a few times- religion didn't come up.

This was a good story about someone who's never been in a D/s relationship learns some of the beginner aspects of the lifestyle. This was actually a very very mild book compared to some others I've read. They dive into oral/vaginal sex and a little bondage and wax play - and that's it.

So even though he says things like "In a perfect world, she'd be on his lap, naked but for the collar around her neck and the plug in her ass." Nothing like that ever happened in this book.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like your holiday stories with a little kink this will be right up your alley. Because Becca and Jeremy have known each other for five years but done nothing about their attraction to one another because Becca was married their relationship doesn't feel as rushed as it might have in a book this short otherwise. I really like that Jeremy was sensitive to Becca's fears and I loved that Becca had a problem with the word submission if not the act. I think it made it very real for me. So if you want a spicy holiday read this one will warm you up quick.
I was given an advanced copy of this from NetGalley for a fair and honest review.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this authors style of writing. She was very descriptive with her characters..there lives..professions ..and what they feel for each other along with the acceptances of there true personality and physical requirements/needs. Jeremy is a cop who for five years has wanted Rebecca's. Rebecca's coming out of bad marriage has fantasied about Jeremy for years. It was part of the reason she could deal with the demise of her marriage. I will add this author on my list of authors I would like to read more of.

[Elliot Cooper]

Not rating because I DNFed.

DNFed because Jeremy kept going on and on about consent, describing the concept in explicit and clear detail, then forcing Bec to be in his space. Pinned by him to a counter, then forced to be on his lap even though she clearly did not want to be. If you can't give her the space she desires in a platonic situation, then I don't trust you to take care of her in a BDSM situation.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was a great short read. I liked the chemistry between Rebeccah and Jeremy. I hope to get to see more of this couple!!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

very steamy.. Great story, wished it was longer

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this short Christmas read.

[Maury · Rating 2 out of 5]

I knew that this would be terrible going in (after all, matzoh season is a different time of year from mistletoe season) and it lived up (or should I say down) to my expectations

[Leigh Kramer · Rating 2 out of 5]

CW: domestic violence

Rebeccah has been volunteering with the police department on Christmas and Easter for the past 5 years and this is the first time she’s been single. She separated from her abusive husband 9 months ago and has been divorced for 4 months. (He was emotionally and spiritually abusive for the 6 years they were married. She decided to leave once he became physically abusive.) I was already hesitant about this set up because it’s very clear she has not processed the abuse or her divorce. She flinches more than a few times around Jeremy and there’s no mention of therapy or anything else she might have done to move toward healing. And because of that, it was hard for me to buy that she was ready for a relationship, much less a BDSM relationship, which she’s never tried before. Not only that, there needed to be much more conversation around what happened in her marriage so that Jeremy didn’t accidentally trigger her and I didn’t feel she was ready for impact play. Yes, she turned out to be into everything Jeremy did with her but that felt like pure fantasy, given her history and lack of healing. If you’re going to give your characters a history of domestic violence, you have to show what they’ve done to process and heal from the trauma and a romantic or sexual relationship is not it. This is even more important if you bring the abuser on page, which happens here. I found this inclusion to be completely unnecessary. I also didn’t like how often Jeremy threatened violence against her ex, especially since he’s a police officer.

This is more holiday-adjacent than holiday romance. While Rebeccah and Jeremy are together for a Christmas day ride along, Christmas barely factors in and Hanukkah is already over.

Character notes: Rebeccah is Jewish and a middle school teacher. Jeremy is a police officer. They’re both white. They go to a cabin in Shenandoah.

CW: heroine divorced four months ago, heroine’s ex-husband was emotionally and spiritually abusive and she left him once he became physically abusive, on page panic attack, stalker ex (includes confrontation with ex but does not get violent), gender essentialism

[Mara · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not particularly hot nor romancey. It didn't work out for me.

[scarr]

DNF - too many cops