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Cold Feet
Best friends snowed in together. When the heat rises, will they get cold feet?
Getting snowed in at a remote cottage in Wales with someone he’d fancied for ages isn’t exactly how Sam expected to spend Christmas. His feelings for Ryan are pointless. Ryan’s straight—or so he thought.
Until now, Ryan’s kept his feelings for Sam buried. Why ruin a friendship over what might only be gay experimentation? Playing it cool seems safer, until a cold snap makes sharing body heat vital. In their Welsh safe haven, anything seems possible.
As Ryan’s reserve melts away, Sam wants more than stolen kisses under the mistletoe. But a sudden thaw means making decisions. They could face the New Year together—unless one of them gets cold feet.
Getting snowed in at a remote cottage in Wales with someone he’d fancied for ages isn’t exactly how Sam expected to spend Christmas. His feelings for Ryan are pointless. Ryan’s straight—or so he thought.
Until now, Ryan’s kept his feelings for Sam buried. Why ruin a friendship over what might only be gay experimentation? Playing it cool seems safer, until a cold snap makes sharing body heat vital. In their Welsh safe haven, anything seems possible.
As Ryan’s reserve melts away, Sam wants more than stolen kisses under the mistletoe. But a sudden thaw means making decisions. They could face the New Year together—unless one of them gets cold feet.
132 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 8, 2014
69 people are currently reading
640 people want to read
About the author
Jay Northcote
54 books1,651 followersI don't hang out on Goodreads much, so if you'd like to connect with me then Twitter, Facebook or an email is usually best :) All my contact details are on my website.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 313 reviews
December 9, 2015
if only there were some way i could express my feelings for you. a shared language, perhaps. but—alas! no. i shall instead stand here, looking at you intently, so i can draw incorrect conclusions from your body language.
two chickenshits engaged in a mortal duel of Tactical British Miscommunication.
i'd ask someone to kill me in the face but the bit where even ryan's text game was rubbish already did.
when you're down to "autocorrect hates me" for reasons why you're not opening your stupid mouth to tell your dude you love him, i am finished with you.
two chickenshits engaged in a mortal duel of Tactical British Miscommunication.
i'd ask someone to kill me in the face but the bit where even ryan's text game was rubbish already did.
when you're down to "autocorrect hates me" for reasons why you're not opening your stupid mouth to tell your dude you love him, i am finished with you.
January 19, 2020
Sam, the openly gay ubergeek redhead is secretly in love with his best friend, Ryan, the hunky rugby player, who has been questioning his sexuality ever since Sam came out. A geek and a jock, secret crush, another GFY/OFY story – how cliché, you’d think. Well, Northcote dares to say it aloud.
Yes, we’ve read it all before: best friends, suppressed feelings, forced together in an isolated place, in unusual circumstances. But the execution of the story is supercute and heartwarming, so delectable! The portrayal of Sam and Ryan’s feelings and trepidation is excellent, the plot, the characters’ background and the secondary characters are great and not overdone.
Overall, Cold Feet is a sweet holiday story. Recommended!
He was the ultimate gay cliché, secretly and hopelessly in love with his straight best friend.
Yes, we’ve read it all before: best friends, suppressed feelings, forced together in an isolated place, in unusual circumstances. But the execution of the story is supercute and heartwarming, so delectable! The portrayal of Sam and Ryan’s feelings and trepidation is excellent, the plot, the characters’ background and the secondary characters are great and not overdone.
Overall, Cold Feet is a sweet holiday story. Recommended!
December 3, 2014
4.5 stars
Warning: features awww-inducing cuteness, remote Welsh cabins, and spoiled cats; will most certainly cause a hankering for Christmas pudding.
This lovely little novella reminds me of this author's
which is another adorbs story about two college mates to lovers turned.
Ryan and Sam are best friends and housemates at uni. Sam is openly gay and has been crushing on Ryan for ages. What Sam doesn't know is that Ryan returns his feelings but is just coming to grips with his sexuality.
The MCs get snowed in just a couple days before Christmas at a small cabin in the Welsh countryside. They play board games, share a bed (to warm up, of course!), and rescue a cat. Serious cuteness, do you see?
This was such an easy, endearing read, lower in steam than some of Northcote's other books but appropriately so since the guys are younger and just exploring their new friends-to-something-more relationship.
The story has a lot of charm and brightness. There is a misunderstanding and some typical new adult angst, but of course it all works out in the ends. How could it not? It's Christmas after all, and mistletoe abounds.
Plus, the New Year rings in some properly delicious midnight kisses!
So wrap yourself in a warm blanket and cuddle up with Sam and Ryan. If there's a blizzard out, all the better.
Warning: features awww-inducing cuteness, remote Welsh cabins, and spoiled cats; will most certainly cause a hankering for Christmas pudding.
This lovely little novella reminds me of this author's
which is another adorbs story about two college mates to lovers turned.
Ryan and Sam are best friends and housemates at uni. Sam is openly gay and has been crushing on Ryan for ages. What Sam doesn't know is that Ryan returns his feelings but is just coming to grips with his sexuality.
The MCs get snowed in just a couple days before Christmas at a small cabin in the Welsh countryside. They play board games, share a bed (to warm up, of course!), and rescue a cat. Serious cuteness, do you see?
This was such an easy, endearing read, lower in steam than some of Northcote's other books but appropriately so since the guys are younger and just exploring their new friends-to-something-more relationship.
The story has a lot of charm and brightness. There is a misunderstanding and some typical new adult angst, but of course it all works out in the ends. How could it not? It's Christmas after all, and mistletoe abounds.
Plus, the New Year rings in some properly delicious midnight kisses!
So wrap yourself in a warm blanket and cuddle up with Sam and Ryan. If there's a blizzard out, all the better.
December 29, 2014
This was another solid Jay Northcote read! A bit lighter on the steam but very sweet and low drama!
It was the perfect lazy Sunday read!
Sam and Ryan are best friends. Sam recently came out and has been in love with his straight best friend Ryan for awhile. Ryan has been questioning his preferences and being snowed in with Sam leads to him exploring his recent attraction to his best friend.
Cuddles lead to stolen kisses and eventually a bit more. Sadly, both Ryan and Sam are afraid to tell each other how they feel....fearing the other won't feel the same.
This one could have been a lot more annoying with the lack of communication. But luckily it wasn't too overdone or dragged out.
Instead this was a quick, easy, enjoyable read. Very sweet friends to lovers story with just a bit of spice to make things nice! :)
It was the perfect lazy Sunday read!
Sam and Ryan are best friends. Sam recently came out and has been in love with his straight best friend Ryan for awhile. Ryan has been questioning his preferences and being snowed in with Sam leads to him exploring his recent attraction to his best friend.
Cuddles lead to stolen kisses and eventually a bit more. Sadly, both Ryan and Sam are afraid to tell each other how they feel....fearing the other won't feel the same.
This one could have been a lot more annoying with the lack of communication. But luckily it wasn't too overdone or dragged out.
Instead this was a quick, easy, enjoyable read. Very sweet friends to lovers story with just a bit of spice to make things nice! :)
September 19, 2019
This story of two best friends, secretly attracted to one another, was a fun, light novella to read.
Sam was a skinny ginger nerd and Ryan a larger rugby player, but despite the differences, their friendship had always seemed effortless.
Then when Sam came out of the closet, Ryan began questioning his own attractions toward Sam, although Sam never questioned his attraction to Ryan.
Queue up a long holiday weekend in a remote cabin, alone, add a freak snow storm and you have this story.
I loved the first parts of the book, where attractions were divulged and acted on. It was extremely cute and playful, yet reserved, with the guys lacking any real self-confidence.
However, after abruptly returning home to deal with a family emergency, the story didn't flow quite as well for me and became a bit less enjoyable, less fresh.
There were a few steamy scenes in the book, but as shocking as I know it may seem for me to say this, I wouldn't have minded one or two more. Yes, slutty, whatever. Deal, bitches! ;- )
The level of 'feels' was pretty good, so I did really enjoy the book and would recommend it, with this one clocking in around 3.75 stars this time.
Sam was a skinny ginger nerd and Ryan a larger rugby player, but despite the differences, their friendship had always seemed effortless.
Then when Sam came out of the closet, Ryan began questioning his own attractions toward Sam, although Sam never questioned his attraction to Ryan.
Queue up a long holiday weekend in a remote cabin, alone, add a freak snow storm and you have this story.
I loved the first parts of the book, where attractions were divulged and acted on. It was extremely cute and playful, yet reserved, with the guys lacking any real self-confidence.
However, after abruptly returning home to deal with a family emergency, the story didn't flow quite as well for me and became a bit less enjoyable, less fresh.
There were a few steamy scenes in the book, but as shocking as I know it may seem for me to say this, I wouldn't have minded one or two more. Yes, slutty, whatever. Deal, bitches! ;- )
The level of 'feels' was pretty good, so I did really enjoy the book and would recommend it, with this one clocking in around 3.75 stars this time.
December 3, 2020
Reading as part of Christmas Crackers.
A sweet Christmas novella from the always reliable Jay Northcote, I liked Cold Feet, even if it wasn't a home run.
Honestly, I'll take a snowed-in, must share a bed! romance any day of the week, and I was thrilled to get one here. There were some genuinely wonderful moments in the story, but the constant miscommunications were a sticking point for me.
It really irks me when the whole tension in a plot is based around the lack of a proper discussion, and that's what we get with Cold Feet. Sure, these guys are awkward college kids and one is just exploring his sexuality for the first time, but there was too much "making assumptions" for my taste. I wanted some straightforwardness, and it took until the end to get there.
I enjoyed the holiday spirit and the tentative sexy-time snuggles, but I think the brevity of the novella made it easier to rely on miscommunication as a main plot device. Still, a cute story, even if it won't make my favorites list, and it made me want to snuggle up by the fire.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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A sweet Christmas novella from the always reliable Jay Northcote, I liked Cold Feet, even if it wasn't a home run.
Honestly, I'll take a snowed-in, must share a bed! romance any day of the week, and I was thrilled to get one here. There were some genuinely wonderful moments in the story, but the constant miscommunications were a sticking point for me.
It really irks me when the whole tension in a plot is based around the lack of a proper discussion, and that's what we get with Cold Feet. Sure, these guys are awkward college kids and one is just exploring his sexuality for the first time, but there was too much "making assumptions" for my taste. I wanted some straightforwardness, and it took until the end to get there.
I enjoyed the holiday spirit and the tentative sexy-time snuggles, but I think the brevity of the novella made it easier to rely on miscommunication as a main plot device. Still, a cute story, even if it won't make my favorites list, and it made me want to snuggle up by the fire.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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October 23, 2015
2.5 stars
I was hoping this would be a sweet best friends to lovers story. And it started out pretty good.
Sam and Ryan were supposed to meet their two other friends in a cabin to spend some time together before the holidays. But because of the snow their friends couldn’t make it and the two of them are stuck for Christmas.
Since Sam is convinced Ryan is straight he knows he cannot act on his feelings for his best friend. But what Sam doesn’t know is that Ryan has been struggling with his feelings for Sam for quite some time now…
This could have been amazing! I loved how the two of them had to share a bed together because it was too cold to sleep alone. This had so much potential.
Unfortunately both Sam and Ryan were constantly feeling insecure and there was so much awkwardness I never really got into the story.
After the big ‘I am attracted to you’ reveal and the following events, they are both too scared to admit their feelings and more awkwardness ensues.
They only talk and finally get together at the end.
Nope, not my kind of book.
I was hoping this would be a sweet best friends to lovers story. And it started out pretty good.
Sam and Ryan were supposed to meet their two other friends in a cabin to spend some time together before the holidays. But because of the snow their friends couldn’t make it and the two of them are stuck for Christmas.
Since Sam is convinced Ryan is straight he knows he cannot act on his feelings for his best friend. But what Sam doesn’t know is that Ryan has been struggling with his feelings for Sam for quite some time now…
This could have been amazing! I loved how the two of them had to share a bed together because it was too cold to sleep alone. This had so much potential.
Unfortunately both Sam and Ryan were constantly feeling insecure and there was so much awkwardness I never really got into the story.
After the big ‘I am attracted to you’ reveal and the following events, they are both too scared to admit their feelings and more awkwardness ensues.
They only talk and finally get together at the end.
Nope, not my kind of book.
December 19, 2014
There are times when you want to sit in bed…in your jammies…nibbling your favorite sweet treat. All snuggled in, toasty and full. Come on now, admit it. You know it’s true.
This book was exactly that. Despite the name, it is definitely warm and fuzzy. I devoured it, wearing a goofy grin and was left feeling full to the brim.
Imagine the most remote and romantic setting, imagine the sweetest pair of best ‘mates’, and now imagine a love affair that begins with a spark but quickly burns bright.
Have I snagged your interest? Good.
This was my first encounter with Northcote, but I assure you, it won’t be my last. Smooth clean writing with endearing characters grabbed my attention from the get-go. The heat level was hot enough, but the clarity was on the cuddles. I love snuggles…and cuddles…and especially snuggles and cuddles. The angstometer barely pinged. If I nitpick, I think it could have used a bit more tension. But in all honestly, I don’t really want to nitpick, I’m still floating in my happy book place. Yeah, it's nice up here.
Sam and Ryan are on holiday break and embark on a journey that will change their lives. You see, Sam is gay and is hopelessly in love with Ryan, his straight best friend. I can hear what you are thinking….'been there, done that'. But wait! I have found that it doesn't matter how many times I've read a particular ‘theme’, what truly matters is- how well it’s done. This time? It was done beautifully. They are off to the countryside for a few days of rest and relaxation before Christmas. An unexpected snowstorm traps them, isolates the two of them in a haven of beauty. Peace, quiet and shared body warmth become quite the temptation. Aren't the holiday's all about indulging?
Sam is single and having a hard time settling down because his heart belongs to Ryan, unbeknownst to Ryan. Ryan has used his college years to thoroughly explore the girls on campus, but now believes the reason he has not found ‘the one’ is because he’s already found them, or more precisely, him. They are amazing friends and it gets even better when they cross that irreversible line. Circumstance prevents an opportunity and they tip-toe and then pounce on it. Bless the lovely mistletoe.
Snowbound at Christmas is a gift. Well, if you ask me it is. I love watching the flakes fall and pile up, coating the world in a fresh glistening blanket. There is something pure and comforting about being snowed in. And it's soooo romantic.
Sam and Ryan discover life has a funny way putting you exactly where you are suppose to be. The boys blissfully find that place happens to be in each other’s arms.
Then the snow melts and along with it the happy bubble they were in. Can they hold onto what they found, the precious gift of love...or was it an illusion all along?
I absolutely adored finding out!
So why only 4 stars? I’m not particularly thrilled with how Ryan came to this crossroads in his life. I loved his path from the crossroads forward, yet the path at his back felt…contrived. Something was missing. And as I said, it was almost too easy. But damn, the guy sure as hell has ‘style’.
*cue the fireworks*
Fabulous friends to lovers, confident out-for-you, and holiday goodness at it's finest. The British flare was subdued, yet I couldn't resist a smile every time the wishes of 'Happy Christmas' were spoken. Mmmmm, and I desperately want to try some Christmas pudding.
Grab a cup of cocoa or tea and cosy up…this is one scrumptious treat.
*4 snugly-cuddly-sweet stars*
This book was exactly that. Despite the name, it is definitely warm and fuzzy. I devoured it, wearing a goofy grin and was left feeling full to the brim.
Imagine the most remote and romantic setting, imagine the sweetest pair of best ‘mates’, and now imagine a love affair that begins with a spark but quickly burns bright.
Have I snagged your interest? Good.
This was my first encounter with Northcote, but I assure you, it won’t be my last. Smooth clean writing with endearing characters grabbed my attention from the get-go. The heat level was hot enough, but the clarity was on the cuddles. I love snuggles…and cuddles…and especially snuggles and cuddles. The angstometer barely pinged. If I nitpick, I think it could have used a bit more tension. But in all honestly, I don’t really want to nitpick, I’m still floating in my happy book place. Yeah, it's nice up here.
Sam and Ryan are on holiday break and embark on a journey that will change their lives. You see, Sam is gay and is hopelessly in love with Ryan, his straight best friend. I can hear what you are thinking….'been there, done that'. But wait! I have found that it doesn't matter how many times I've read a particular ‘theme’, what truly matters is- how well it’s done. This time? It was done beautifully. They are off to the countryside for a few days of rest and relaxation before Christmas. An unexpected snowstorm traps them, isolates the two of them in a haven of beauty. Peace, quiet and shared body warmth become quite the temptation. Aren't the holiday's all about indulging?
Sam is single and having a hard time settling down because his heart belongs to Ryan, unbeknownst to Ryan. Ryan has used his college years to thoroughly explore the girls on campus, but now believes the reason he has not found ‘the one’ is because he’s already found them, or more precisely, him. They are amazing friends and it gets even better when they cross that irreversible line. Circumstance prevents an opportunity and they tip-toe and then pounce on it. Bless the lovely mistletoe.
Snowbound at Christmas is a gift. Well, if you ask me it is. I love watching the flakes fall and pile up, coating the world in a fresh glistening blanket. There is something pure and comforting about being snowed in. And it's soooo romantic.
Sam and Ryan discover life has a funny way putting you exactly where you are suppose to be. The boys blissfully find that place happens to be in each other’s arms.
Then the snow melts and along with it the happy bubble they were in. Can they hold onto what they found, the precious gift of love...or was it an illusion all along?
I absolutely adored finding out!
So why only 4 stars? I’m not particularly thrilled with how Ryan came to this crossroads in his life. I loved his path from the crossroads forward, yet the path at his back felt…contrived. Something was missing. And as I said, it was almost too easy. But damn, the guy sure as hell has ‘style’.
*cue the fireworks*
Fabulous friends to lovers, confident out-for-you, and holiday goodness at it's finest. The British flare was subdued, yet I couldn't resist a smile every time the wishes of 'Happy Christmas' were spoken. Mmmmm, and I desperately want to try some Christmas pudding.
Grab a cup of cocoa or tea and cosy up…this is one scrumptious treat.
*4 snugly-cuddly-sweet stars*
December 14, 2014
OK, this was very sweet and nice and had a perfect bit of angst towards the end, but it was just a bit too sweet for me. Most likely it was the mood I was in, but that doesn't negate the fact that the first half of the book was actually quite boring and not a whole-hell-of-a-lot happened.
I can recommend this book to you if you are in the mood for slow and simple, friends-to-lovers, without much in the way of sex and not a heck of a lot going on. Quick and easy. In and out. Done!
I can recommend this book to you if you are in the mood for slow and simple, friends-to-lovers, without much in the way of sex and not a heck of a lot going on. Quick and easy. In and out. Done!
December 8, 2014
3.75 stars rounded up
This is only my third story from Jay Northcote – and I must admit that the previous two books were only okay for me. But I received messages from my friend, Heather C, who just sent the cover of this to me, and said “Very cute. Sweet friends to lovers Christmas story”.
Well, I couldn’t help it!! Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes. It eliminates the insta-feel to the relationship (which is usually a huge pet peeve of mine) and there’s something simply romantic when one realizes that what he/she needs is right there all along. AND this one has the holiday theme – which I’m also pretty much a sucker for.
I definitely thought it was pretty cute… two best friends, one gay, one not-so-much (but in the phase of questioning his own sexuality!) are snowed-in in a remote cottage, With no one act as barrier to their closeness, secret feelings are coming to the surface.
It was an easy light read albeit pretty predictable. Northcote didn’t really offer anything new to the trope – I know it is not an easy feat to do anyway – and she leaned on a miscommunication plot (since the boys didn’t really talk about their feelings of the morning after) near the end … which unfortunately, not one I highly preferred. HOWEVER, both Sam and Ryan were really likable, and they could be totally adorable together.
But, but, the kissing scene at the end was DIVINE!! It was perfect and gorgeous and made me all warm and gooey inside. That kiss upped the star-rating for this one (*LOL*). So yep, for a holiday story, this one is pretty much satisfying.
PS: The situation kind of reminded me of Keira Andrews’ “Where the Lovelight Gleams”, which I also enjoyed.
This is only my third story from Jay Northcote – and I must admit that the previous two books were only okay for me. But I received messages from my friend, Heather C, who just sent the cover of this to me, and said “Very cute. Sweet friends to lovers Christmas story”.
Well, I couldn’t help it!! Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite romance tropes. It eliminates the insta-feel to the relationship (which is usually a huge pet peeve of mine) and there’s something simply romantic when one realizes that what he/she needs is right there all along. AND this one has the holiday theme – which I’m also pretty much a sucker for.
I definitely thought it was pretty cute… two best friends, one gay, one not-so-much (but in the phase of questioning his own sexuality!) are snowed-in in a remote cottage, With no one act as barrier to their closeness, secret feelings are coming to the surface.
It was an easy light read albeit pretty predictable. Northcote didn’t really offer anything new to the trope – I know it is not an easy feat to do anyway – and she leaned on a miscommunication plot (since the boys didn’t really talk about their feelings of the morning after) near the end … which unfortunately, not one I highly preferred. HOWEVER, both Sam and Ryan were really likable, and they could be totally adorable together.
But, but, the kissing scene at the end was DIVINE!! It was perfect and gorgeous and made me all warm and gooey inside. That kiss upped the star-rating for this one (*LOL*). So yep, for a holiday story, this one is pretty much satisfying.
PS: The situation kind of reminded me of Keira Andrews’ “Where the Lovelight Gleams”, which I also enjoyed.
June 9, 2017
3.5 Stars
A surprise snow storm unexpectedly leaves best friends Sam and Ryan stuck in a cottage with nothing to do but contemplate their secret crushes on each other. Such close quarters and extremely cold weather oh-so-conveniently allow them the excuse to test the proverbial waters. What’s a little harmless snogging and cuddling between besties?? Plenty, as each fears the other is less invested.
Be reassured that Northcote solidly delivers a holiday themed, easy breezy love story. Sweet, with a little smex and just a bit of mis/no communication, this ended with a perfectly resolved HEA.
A surprise snow storm unexpectedly leaves best friends Sam and Ryan stuck in a cottage with nothing to do but contemplate their secret crushes on each other. Such close quarters and extremely cold weather oh-so-conveniently allow them the excuse to test the proverbial waters. What’s a little harmless snogging and cuddling between besties?? Plenty, as each fears the other is less invested.
Be reassured that Northcote solidly delivers a holiday themed, easy breezy love story. Sweet, with a little smex and just a bit of mis/no communication, this ended with a perfectly resolved HEA.
December 16, 2014
A fun and sexy friends-to-lovers story from Jay Northcote. I'm catching up on my Christmas stories and I really enjoyed reading this one set in a snowy English rural village. Recommended! Thank you, Jay.
December 27, 2017
I liked this book, however I will say that it was a bit too similar in some ways to Jay's other book "What Happens at Christmas". The in some ways immature lack of communication between two best friends is an issue for me which happened with both books. I mean my best friend and I sorta the the opposite to these books since we dated for 2 yrs... then realized we would kill each other is we stayed as BFs... yet to this day we are like brothers. Anyway just saying that if you are that close as friends it goes without saying that you will talk stuff out and be truthful. Anyway, the story in this one was good, I loved how they spent Christmas day with Mari... which seemed particularly good. Also I thought that Sam and Ryan were great characters even if they had trouble being adults when it came to discussing their feelings. Who knows, maybe I am hypersensitive to this stuff from having been to therapy for quite some time; learning to express what I am feeling rather then keep it secret and bottled up inside me. Over all, an enjoyable read!
January 4, 2018
So many warm fuzzies were had while I read this story.
December 9, 2014
My FIRST Christmas read of the season!
I loved EVERYTHING about the blurb when I read it. Some of my favorite themes are stranded/isolated, friends to lovers, and gay for you/out for you. So this had all the ingredients to be a WIN WIN WIN! Right? I loved EVERYTHING about this story!
I loved the characters: Both Sam and Ryan are easily likable; neither are assholes in denial that I often see when it comes to OFY stories. No, they are both two vulnerable young men afraid of rejection.
I loved the sexual tension: Gah! These boys were so hot for each other it was heating up the cottage…and my Kindle! Plus, the slow exploration was very well done. I can’t remember the last time where the MCs made-out for a while fully dressed…and also didn’t jump quickly into full-on sex. Very nice!
I loved the setting: A little cottage in Wales…where the nearest neighbor is a little old cat lady who is a wicked card player. The imagery was exceptional and I totally escaped into the pages.
I just loved the whole freakin’ story!!!! It’s sweet, adorable, sexy and spirited. What else can I say?
Okay, I can’t say that this story brings anything new to the genre, but for a sweet, Christmas story about two best friends finally crossing that line to lovers and boyfriends…this hits its mark!
Oh, and I also loved the ending! PERFECTION!!
4.5 stars because I’m greedy and want more of Sam and Ryan.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
I loved EVERYTHING about the blurb when I read it. Some of my favorite themes are stranded/isolated, friends to lovers, and gay for you/out for you. So this had all the ingredients to be a WIN WIN WIN! Right? I loved EVERYTHING about this story!
I loved the characters: Both Sam and Ryan are easily likable; neither are assholes in denial that I often see when it comes to OFY stories. No, they are both two vulnerable young men afraid of rejection.
I loved the sexual tension: Gah! These boys were so hot for each other it was heating up the cottage…and my Kindle! Plus, the slow exploration was very well done. I can’t remember the last time where the MCs made-out for a while fully dressed…and also didn’t jump quickly into full-on sex. Very nice!
I loved the setting: A little cottage in Wales…where the nearest neighbor is a little old cat lady who is a wicked card player. The imagery was exceptional and I totally escaped into the pages.
I just loved the whole freakin’ story!!!! It’s sweet, adorable, sexy and spirited. What else can I say?
Okay, I can’t say that this story brings anything new to the genre, but for a sweet, Christmas story about two best friends finally crossing that line to lovers and boyfriends…this hits its mark!
Oh, and I also loved the ending! PERFECTION!!
4.5 stars because I’m greedy and want more of Sam and Ryan.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
April 24, 2018
College students Sam and Ryan are planning on spending a few relaxed days before Christmas with two buddies in a cabin. The weather changes and the fresh snow prevents the buddies from coming, so Sam and Ryan are stuck with each other until it thaws.
Sam being gay and Ryan being unsure but plainly smitten with Sam, they get to know each other rather intimately pretty soon.
However, both guys are afraid to confess their feelings, so they spend half of the story NOT talking and feeling miserable over their - presumably - hopeless feelings.
Sam and Ryan are great guys and pretty likable characters, but their communication issues were totally frustrating, so it wasn't a perfect read.
I'll add a half star for the cat lady who saved their Christmas dinner, though :-)
3.5 stars!
Sam being gay and Ryan being unsure but plainly smitten with Sam, they get to know each other rather intimately pretty soon.
However, both guys are afraid to confess their feelings, so they spend half of the story NOT talking and feeling miserable over their - presumably - hopeless feelings.
Sam and Ryan are great guys and pretty likable characters, but their communication issues were totally frustrating, so it wasn't a perfect read.
I'll add a half star for the cat lady who saved their Christmas dinner, though :-)
3.5 stars!
January 6, 2018
3.5 Stars
Two young dudes, one cosy cabin, and a snow storm! That right there is a recipe for some Northcote holiday goodness. Add to that a cute cat, a craving for Christmas pudding and a sweet tale of best friends to lovers and you have yourself another lovely M/M Christmas read from the always reliable Northcote.
Two young dudes, one cosy cabin, and a snow storm! That right there is a recipe for some Northcote holiday goodness. Add to that a cute cat, a craving for Christmas pudding and a sweet tale of best friends to lovers and you have yourself another lovely M/M Christmas read from the always reliable Northcote.
January 1, 2016
3.5-4 stars!
My first read of 2016. Enjoyable and quite sweet. I really liked the ending.
My first read of 2016. Enjoyable and quite sweet. I really liked the ending.
December 24, 2023
Cute and sweet, collage age, low angst. Enjoyable but not my favourite Christmas read by Jay.
December 25, 2018
After finishing Stuck with You there was a list of Christmas stories Jay has written and Cold Feet was the first story on the list published back in 2014.
I enjoyed Cold Feet, best friends from university go away before Christmas to stay in a cottage in Wales with another couple.
Sam is gay and Ryan is straight or is he? Snowed in together, how will they occupy their time???
I enjoyed this but it felt too similar to Stuck with You for me, my timing
Snowed in at a cottage miles from home.
Elderly lady on her own expect for a pet, isolated by snow.
Invited to spend Christmas day with elderly lady and make lovely lunch.
Fun in the snow turns hot indoors.
I am not a big fan of reading about students either, I prefer reading about older people, I wonder if Jay has written stories with older couples, I will have to have a look.
I enjoyed Cold Feet, best friends from university go away before Christmas to stay in a cottage in Wales with another couple.
Sam is gay and Ryan is straight or is he? Snowed in together, how will they occupy their time???
I enjoyed this but it felt too similar to Stuck with You for me, my timing
Snowed in at a cottage miles from home.
Elderly lady on her own expect for a pet, isolated by snow.
Invited to spend Christmas day with elderly lady and make lovely lunch.
Fun in the snow turns hot indoors.
I am not a big fan of reading about students either, I prefer reading about older people, I wonder if Jay has written stories with older couples, I will have to have a look.
January 3, 2016
Cute story of Sam and Ryan, housemates at university, who are stranded over Christmas in a small cottage somewhere in Wales. They are pretty much leading the Clueless Parade, as Sam is arse over elbow in love with Ryan, his supposedly straight best mate, while Ryan has been keeping the secret that he, too, is gay AND also in love with the out-and-proud Sam. The Miscommunication as Plot Device trope gets used WAY, way, way, way too much but eventually love conquers all.
November 3, 2015
Overall book rating 2.5 Boring stars
Audio book - Narrator: Matthew Lloyd Davies 3 stars
Book cover: 2 Stars
I'm coming down form a book high so this is probably harsh - or maybe not!!!
Audio book - Narrator: Matthew Lloyd Davies 3 stars
Book cover: 2 Stars
I'm coming down form a book high so this is probably harsh - or maybe not!!!
December 9, 2015
The pacing felt too slow. I couldn't tell Sam and Ryan apart from each other which was distracting. And despite it only being 129 pages long, it took me THREE days to read it.
If I had any Christmas spirit, reading this would have killed it.
December 9, 2014
Awwwww.*sighs*
Cute Christmas novella with a friends to lovers theme. Perfect to set the mood for Christmas.
Cute Christmas novella with a friends to lovers theme. Perfect to set the mood for Christmas.
dnf
March 15, 2016DNF at 50%
Nothing wrong with it, just so unremarkable I can't bring myself to finish this. I'm a fan of angsty reads mostly and this in between state of not too light, nor too heartwrenching, is guaranteed to send me to sleep anytime.
Personal issues aside, this is not a bad book and readers who like sentimental stories with a touch of melodrama, will probably appreciate it.
Nothing wrong with it, just so unremarkable I can't bring myself to finish this. I'm a fan of angsty reads mostly and this in between state of not too light, nor too heartwrenching, is guaranteed to send me to sleep anytime.
Personal issues aside, this is not a bad book and readers who like sentimental stories with a touch of melodrama, will probably appreciate it.
February 15, 2016
Well, that was lovely.
December 21, 2015
If you're in the mood for a super sweet, friends-to-lovers holiday romance, this is the book for you! Sam and Ryan are best friends and housemates at university. Sam is out, but secretly in love with his "straight" best friend. Ryan, isn't out yet but he too is secretly crushing on Sam. They get stranded together in a cottage in the Welsh countryside over Christmas and that's where they gradually realize they're attracted to one another. Are they just buddies who get each other off or could this be the real thing?!
July 14, 2018
A sweet, light, easy to read story from Jay Northcote. I love his stories that relate to besties who become more. In this case, the big reveal comes during a snowstorm when Sam and Ryan are stuck in a cabin over the Christmas holiday during a major snowfall.
Is it original? Not really. But Jay's writing style, the Brit countryside, and the way the guys have of fumbling their way in to almost breaking up made for an entertaining day and left a smile on my face. And some days, that's what I need most.
Is it original? Not really. But Jay's writing style, the Brit countryside, and the way the guys have of fumbling their way in to almost breaking up made for an entertaining day and left a smile on my face. And some days, that's what I need most.
November 6, 2015
This narrator ruins it for me every time. I switched to reading and it was somewhat better. Friends to lovers/GFY. Two stars says it was OK.
November 18, 2020
What a sweet and wonderful holiday story. Complete with Jay Northcote's superb ability to write characters with terrific chemistry, and extremely hot sex scenes, what more could a person want?
Five stars for Matthew Lloyd Davies' performance, it was simply perfect.
Five stars for Matthew Lloyd Davies' performance, it was simply perfect.
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