Daddy's Little Christmas

by Denver Shaw

This Christmas, Daddy gives him the one thing he’s never had—acceptance.

My ex had rules. Rules about the part of me that slips soft and small. No pacifiers. No bottles. No little space. No embarrassing habits when we’re married. So I packed my duffle bag and drove toward a tiny Vermont town founded by two queer men who refused to keep hiding, and built a haven for people who had never truly fit anywhere else. I only meant to stay for two weeks. Heal a little. Breathe again.

Then I walked into Holly & Pine… and met him.

Graeme Whitlock.

He sees me. Not the version I was scolded into being—the real me. He offers structure instead of control, security instead of shame, and care without conditions.

And suddenly, Winterhaven doesn’t feel like a stop on the map.

It feels like home.

I didn’t plan to fall for the man who makes me feel small in the safest way. Keeping him? That might be the bravest Christmas wish I’ve ever dared to make.

Daddy’s Little Christmas is a small-town Daddy/little holiday romance filled with Christmas lights, gentle caretaking, emotional safety, and slow-burn heat that melts the snow.

Genres: M M Romance, Christmas, Romance

278 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 26, 2025

Reviews

[Leelah🍁♋️ Orion · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful start for my 2026 year.

This was the perfect book to start the new years. Putting this in my favorite book category. The tenderness in this book was everything. The softness the peace the love. I loved this version. Where silence is beautiful, where slowness is appreciated, where love is everywhere.
I wish there was a town like this. Almost like an Island of misfit toys. Where I could live in all my Black Queer woman, and not have to hold the weight of racism or any other ism. Where I can just walk down the street and people see me, and respect me as a human, not as something the world says is wrong. Oh how I wish for a town like this. What a Christmas gift that would be.
Thank you for this book. The writing was great, the side characters were amazing and the love was beautiful. The spice was low but this was more a feel good love than a smut.


In the know:
Dual pov
No cheating/sharing
Relationship before spice
Diversity in small town
No om/ow drama

[Molly Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hope for something more

Rudy chooses himself and leaves a relationship where his partner wants him to be someone he was never meant to be. Reading an article on Winterhaven Rudy decides to visit for his Christmas holidays to see what a different life would be like. Graeme has become stagnant in his life yet is happy so goes with it until Rudy walks into his shop and changes everything. This is a sweet slow burn romance of love and accepting your true self. These two had a sweetness throughout and even on borrowed time showed each other what it was like to hope for more. A beautiful holiday read.

[Kateřina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This read was overall okay. It was sweet and easy. Although I skipped some pages because they weren’t adding any new information, I finished it and quite enjoyed it. The author’s style is very recognizable — it keeps going with “It was not this, it was that.” I would really prefer a direct sentence at least once every two pages ;-).

As I really like the Daddy/lb theme, I was not completely satisfied. It was too simple and easy for me, but some readers might prefer that.

[Julie Underhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daddy’s Little Christmas by Denver Shaw is a sweet hurt/comfort story about a little who has been told to hide that part of himself and the man who understands and allows him to show all of himself as they fall in love. Rudy Callahan was raised in foster care and was always told he was too much – too quiet, too sensitive, too not straight and he learned to hide and mask that part of him so he could get along. Then he was sent to Mrs. Davis who saw him, loved him just as he was, and encourage him to be his true self. After she died, he felt alone again and was dating a politician who also told him he had to mask the softer, littler side of him and when the final test came, he knew he couldn’t do it and left. He wrote social media and did copy writing for a living and could do if from anywhere. When he read about Winterhaven, Vermont, and the two men who founded it based on their forbidden love and finding a place where they could belong and how the town welcomed everyone, he decided to visit there for 2 weeks to see if he could figure out who he was and what he wanted. After a 3 hour drive from Chicago he arrived and was staying at the Hearthstone Inn where Mae made him feel safe and comfortable. He wandered the town the next day and came to the Holly and Pine and met the owner, Graeme Whitlock, who allowed him to seek comfort in the store and its contents. Graeme had grown up in Winterhaven and lost his parents who had a greenhouse at 18. He turned it into the store at 25, had a boyfriend who left, and had built a quiet, routine, steady and predictable life. He sensed something soft and untethered in Rudy and tried to make him feel comfortable and safe. After Rudy visited the museum of the town he was thinking of how protective, open, warm, and safe Graeme made him feel. He didn’t like crowds and noise but went to the tree lighting that night and enjoyed it at first but then it became too much. Graeme had been watching him and went to offer aid and walked him back to the inn. Rudy realized he had grounded him and went to the store the next day where he helped him decorate his tree but when he dropped and broke an ornament, he fled thinking there would be major consequences just like all the other times something happened in his life. But he realized that running away hadn’t worked before so he went back to the shop where Graeme gave him some ornaments to put hooks on. Graeme had figured out Rudy was a little and tried to reassure him that it was a part of him and it wasn’t a flaw. They continued to see and get to know each other at the store decorating, making gingerbread houses at the Community Center, writing a letter to tomorrow, going to a bookstore, having time at Graeme’s house, dinner at his friend’s house, and going to the Hearth and fixing dinner and handing out care kits to those in needs. Each place found Rudy feeling more safe and protected with Graeme and during this time he gave him some rules of always using his words, living in the moment, and getting gentle reminders if he needed them. They also kissed and had some love scenes which were all leading to them falling in love. But when the two weeks were over Rudy left to back to Chicago but the memories of what they shared, how he felt safe and protected and that this town and Graeme were the first home he ever felt he had since Mrs. Davis, led him to having to make a decision of whether to choose himself and Graeme or go back to the lonely life he had. I’m sure you can figure out the one he made and it was a wonderful scene that led him to the open life he wanted. I really enjoyed this book. Everything about it was very soft and quiet but full of feelings. Your heart hurts for all that Rudy has gone through in his life and how he pulls into himself. Graeme was also stuck in a rut and was settling but Rudy changed all that. He was so understanding of Rudy’s needs and met every one of them, even becoming his Daddy and allowing him to be little when he needed it. The town was wonderful and so welcoming, just as the founders had wanted it to be. Graeme’s friends were also helpful and there for them when they needed to be. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like hurt/comfort stories about a man who has had to hide who he really is all his life, the town that welcomed him and showed him how it could be, and the man who was so understanding of his needs and allowed him to be just who he was and loved him for it.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a bad breakup with his ex, a man who wanted Rudy to ignore an important side of himself and “ grow up”, he reads about a small Vermont town, founded years ago by two queer men, looking for a place to just be themselves. Intrigued, he gets his business affairs in order and takes off for a two week vacation around Christmas to explore this town and learn more about it. The second person he meets is Graeme, the owner of Holly & Pine, a holiday shop, and a man who looks at Rudy in a way no one has before. As the two spend time together, he realizes that Graeme sees him, all parts of him, the functioning adult, the boy from the foster system who has learned not to want things he can’t have, and his small, little side, the side he has been forced to hide for years. Graeme offers structure, not rules, and always with Rudy making the choice, nothing forced onto him, as he can decide which part of himself he needs to be at any given time. He is given the freedom to be himself with full acceptance and without judgement, giving him a confidence he hasn’t had in a long while.

As Rudy learns more about the town, its inhabitants and traditions, the more it feels like a safe place, like home, all based around Graeme and the things they do together. Winterhaven definitely embraces the Christmas season with the town’s traditions, beginning with a tree lighting in the town square, a gingerbread house contest, and one that speaks to Rudy’s heart, the Letters to Tomorrow. Townsfolk and visitors alike write letters about their hopes and dreams, a “place to put things down”, then at the end of the season, the letters are burned or buried, “depending on what the town needed”. This tradition had Rudy writing his own letter (cited in the back of the book), things he has learned about himself and his wants and needs, crystallized by events during his stay in this welcoming small town. (This tradition spoke to me, too, as something that could be so meaningful to people reflecting on their wishes and dreams, as well as accomplishments or growth, as a look back or forward to future selves. I could definitely see it in a small town atmosphere.). The other tradition that really spoke to me was when Rudy and Graeme went to a neighboring town to a place called The Hearth on the day after Christmas to offer a warm meal and Warm Winter Kits with hats, gloves, scarves, socks, and personal items for homeless or those down on their luck. Working there with Graeme reminded Rudy of his time in foster care, what he did and did not have at the various homes, and his last home and the woman who offered him love and care and “saw” him when others never did. It was emotional for him, and me as the reader, making me think about counting one’s blessings, and “there, but for God, go I”.

The characters drew me in from the start, the world building for the small town enhanced the pictures in my mind, the relationship between Rudy and Graeme was so loving and caring, moving at Rudy’s pace and comfort level, and the ending was eventually very satisfying after a bit uncertainty. The story kept me engaged and rooting for these two to wake up and communicate, but that would have been too easy, seems like the past often interferes with indecision at the most critical times. Anyway, I definitely enjoyed the book, it filled me with Christmas spirit, and is a read I could recommend to keep that spirit alive after the holidays wind down. I enjoy Denver Shaw’s writing, and this one delivered again.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how Nate absolutely understood Rudy’s fundamental needs, and completely misunderstood them at the same time. It felt like he could read him very well, but chose to accept and love him as he was. And it was a great setup for the rest of the story and for understanding regression, and how it’s a coping mechanism that is an inherent part of people. And Rudy’s softness is what makes him such a strong person, just not a “politically correct” person. Which makes it such a good beginning for the story. There are some authors that are an automatic read for me, and Denver Shaw is one of them. And this book didn’t disappoint at all! It was so carefully and beautifully portrayed, that it made me tear up at times. Even though it feels like a love at first sight story, it isn’t quite that. Yes, they’re attracted to each other from the beginning, but it’s more than looks, it’s about being safe with someone, having someone make space for you as you are, and recognizing those possibilities from the beginning. The relationship between Graeme and Rudy, and Rudy and the whole town, grows beautifully and at just the right speed. I love Denver Shaw’s books because they have heart, they have imperfect people coming together and creating something perfect for them, imperfections and all. I enjoy how the relationships aren’t solely based on looks, but on something lasting, strong and meaningful. This book gives us hope. It doesn’t matter how broken we are, we can find someone perfect for us, someone who stays. We just need to be brave like Rudy, and choose ourselves, choose our happiness, choose to take a risk at love, choose what’s best for us, not simply what’s comfortable or easiest. It’s a beautiful story, and I loved the characters, all of them: real, imperfect, but trying. This was like a hug, a warm blanket on a cold day, hitting the spot just right. Great read by a great author.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rudy escapes an ex who tried to shame and control his little side, seeking a brief refuge in Winterhaven—a queer‑founded Vermont town built for people who never fit elsewhere. There he meets Graeme Whitlock, a man who offers genuine acceptance, safety, and gentle structure. With Graeme, Rudy finally feels seen and at home, turning a temporary getaway into the possibility of a Christmas wish he never thought he could make.

I loved this story, which was a tender, quietly powerful holiday romance about healing, acceptance, and finding the kind of love that lets you breathe again. Rudy arrives in Winterhaven carrying the weight of an ex who tried to shrink him into someone he wasn’t. What he finds instead is a town built on queer resilience and a man—Graeme Whitlock—who sees him without judgment. Their connection grows slowly, built on emotional safety, gentle structure, and the kind of care that feels like coming home. What makes this story shine is how it treats vulnerability not as something to hide, but as something worthy of protection. Rudy’s journey from shame to self‑acceptance is handled with warmth and respect, and Graeme’s steady presence offers a beautiful contrast to the control Rudy escaped. The romance is soft, intimate, and full of quiet moments that glow like Christmas lights against the snow. This is a story for anyone who loves found family, queer sanctuary, and characters who learn to trust themselves as much as they trust each other. A comforting, emotionally rich holiday read that lingers long after the last page. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like DDLB dynamic.

[Kitchen Sink Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rudy and Graeme, two every different men with very different life experiences, different homes, different everything. And yet not really. Denver Shaw introduces us to two men who are both looking for something without realising entirely what that might be.

Graeme has overcome grief t build his parents memory into something to fill hearts with joy. Rudy has walked away from a man who wanted to mould him into something he never would be. Both are, in their own ways broken, but they find one another and something magical happens. Both find ways in which they can be needed, accepted, loved. There is only one problem however. Rudy is only staying a few weeks. At least that was his plan.

The story Denver Sahw has crafted in 'Daddy's Little Christmas' is as much a love story as a growing romance between a Daddy and a Little, neither of whom have much experience with the dynamic but both who want to, and in Graeme's case, have, the patience to find out. There are incredible moments throughout the story which brought me to tears, we feel so connected to these characters so easily and so deeply it's impossible not to feel them. Simultaneously it is impossible not to be lifted high, to fly with the joy this story brings. Once more Denver Shaw hits the nail on the head with her main characters. her supporting cast and the beautiful town she sets her Christmas tale in. This is a story to wrap and unwrap, to treasure.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jessie Coughlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rudy choosing himself and stepping away from a relationship that asked him to be someone he was never meant to be sets the tone for this gentle, heartfelt story, and his decision to spend Christmas in Winterhaven opens the door to a life he didn’t know he was allowed to want. When he walks into Graeme’s shop, everything begins to shift, not loudly or dramatically, but in small, meaningful ways that make this such a beautiful slow burn. There’s an instant pull between them, but what really connects them is safety, understanding, and the space to exist exactly as they are. I loved how Rudy’s softness is treated as strength, even when it doesn’t fit into neat or “politically correct” boxes, and how the story handles regression as a valid coping mechanism with so much care and compassion. The growth of Rudy and Graeme’s relationship, and Rudy’s connection to the town itself, unfolds at just the right pace, making it feel earned and deeply emotional. Denver Shaw has a gift for writing imperfect people finding something perfect for them, and this book is full of heart, hope, and quiet courage. It’s a story about choosing yourself, taking risks for happiness, and believing that no matter how broken you feel, there is someone who will see you, stay, and love you as you are. This book felt like a warm hug on a cold day, tender, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

[Sarah☀️ Somerville · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, this is tricky. What did I think of this book?

Typically, age play is not my thing. I don't automatically like it, and authors rarely write it in a way that it makes me understand why the characters are into it. In this book, it actually made sense. I understood why Rudy needed it, and maybe kind of why Graeme liked it. That was good.

But otherwise, there was not a lot going on in this book. Graeme was perfect, everything went perfectly, they were practically mind-readers, even the resolution to the relationship not-quite-drama was simple and easy.

And the writing style... look, I dunno if it's just me, but you know how you're reading a book and you can just tell that AI had a hand in the writing? Well, I'm definitely not saying that's what happened here (I mean, I've read Denver Shaw before and as far as I know, they write their books themselves), but this was that writing style. So if it was assisted by AI... well, don't. And if it wasn't AI... don't emulate this writing style, yeah?

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of book that resonates to your soul. I wanted to snatch up Rudy and hug him from page one. There is so much raw vulnerability, guilt and shame inside him it makes your heart ache. Then there is Graeme the instant connection he feels with Rudy from his first glance just builds. The heart and understanding of this man will have you in awe. This heart felt Christmas story begins with the history of a town that never stopped being a safe haven and a man who found his home in someone and was allowed to be who he was. This beautifully written love story captured my heart. The characters were written so well and with such depth and there was just a honesty in this relationship and how natural it was. If you need that good cry from your heartbreaking and then being rebuilt, this is the book for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of two sweet and gentle men. Both meet in the small town of Winterhaven over the Christmas holidays. Rudy Callahan is a little and spent most of his life in foster care. He was devastated when his ex demanded that he give up his little side if they were to be together. Thankfully Rudy chose himself and left the relationship. In an attempt to connect with himself, Rudy has come to Winterhaven. Graeme Whitlock has lived his entire life in Winterhaven and loves the town and his neighbors. Owner of Holly & Pine, the two meet. Instantly they feel peace and quiet while around each other. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I really liked watching while Rudy rediscovered himself while Graeme kept him safe and supported. I enjoyed this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

For anyone who’s ever been told they’re not good enough just as they are, this book hits from the very beginning.

Rudy has been diminished by life—and his partner—until a whim sends him to a small town in Vermont. Think Hallmark vibes, but with gay men and thoughtful representation of age regression.

The little details really shine, especially the history of the town, which made the setting feel both cozy and authentic.

Age regression is handled with genuine care and respect, adding depth and tenderness to Rudy’s journey.

Please note, I did receive this advanced copy ahead of publication; I am writing this honest review voluntarily and appreciate the opportunity provided by the author to review this book.


Tropes & Vibes:
🎄 Holiday romance
🏘️ Small-town setting
❤️ MM romance
🤍 Hurt/comfort
🔥 Instant chemistry
🫶 Caregiver dynamic
✨ Spicy Hallmark movie energy
🌲 Cozy, wintery vibes

[Sara Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely loved it.
Beautifully written. The build up and pacing were perfect.

Heartbroken and lost Rudy(30) decided to take a two week vacation to breathe and find himself again.

Graeme(45) and grew up in Winterhaven. He was comfortable but something was missing.

When MCs meet there is a strong connection that grows steadily over time. Graeme recognized something in Rudy and offers him a safe environment to be himself while in town. There are clear boundaries between "little" and "grown" Rudy. Even with the deadline to Rudys vacation fast appoaching Graeme was sweet and attentive never pushing Rudy.

I won't spoil it but ugly crying on Christmas was not how I saw my day going. It was heartbreakingly beautiful.

I was drawn in by Rudy and Graeme and they kept me hooked until the end.



**I do wish we had more background when it came to Graeme's ex to really understand his thought process.

[Kelsey Fletcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

all the hearts eye emojis

This was a surprisingly moving story. Rudy taking a shot in the dark that a trip to Winterhaven, Vermont will have an effect on his life ends up being the best shot he ever took. He and Graeme had a connection from the very first time they met and I loved seeing them explore that. I thought the way Graeme was so open and understanding about what Rudy needed was so wonderful and I loved that Rudy helped Graeme reconnect with his D@ddÿ side. This book made me cry a bunch of happy and a couple sad tears. The spice was really tastefully done even though it was really hot. I loved that Winterhaven was an incredibly welcoming place and Rudy was able to feel safe there.

[Rachel Blomberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Graeme sees Ruby

This was about a man that really wasn't allowed to be himself, only what people wanted him to be, so he made himself feel small almost invisible. But after a breakup he reads a story about two men that started a town or people who felt they didn't belong and made people feel wanted. There he meets Graeme who sees his the man and the boy who wasn't allowed to be himself. Graeme takes him around town to show him all the things the town does for Christmas and how he fits in and teaches to ask for things he wants. The only thing is all that was temporary or as it. A two week vacation, could Graeme be the man, the Daddy Ruby needs to help guide him through all the good and hard times.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nate dumped Rudy when he ran for office because Rudy, as a Little, didn't fit his image and was too needy. 9 months later, looking for acceptance, Rudy goes to Winterhaven in Vermont for Christmas. When he meets Graeme, the man grounds him, let's him be himself and feel safe. Graeme offers to be his safe space, his Daddy. You can feel the generosity, caring and warmth offered to the desperate Little. I loved the cherishing, empathy and space provided, the blossoming of his small parts. I'm a total fan of this one! I received a copy of this through BookSprout and this is my voluntary opinion.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rudy & Graeme

This was such a beautiful story of finding a place where you belong, where you are excepted for being who you are and not having to apologize to anyone for it, as it should be, and finding your perfect person who is there to hold you and make you feel safe and let you know that everything is going to be ok, without having to hide who you are and just being yourself!

Rudy & Graeme had me both laughing & crying! They are such a beautiful couple & were exactly who each other needed.

The way it's written,the town & it's people seemed so real and will stay with me for a while.

This will definitely be a repeated read for me!

[Between The Covers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my heart! What an emotionally gripping read this was. It was beautiful, comforting, warm, and loving. To not only be heard, but felt and seen as well? The emotions this book brought out of me where intense. There were times I had tears in my eyes, times where I could do nothing but smile and laugh a little, and times where my own heart broke. I absolutely adored Rudy, but also Graeme and all his gentleness, love, and acceptance he has shown to Rudy. If you love sweet and cozy reads filled with MM, finding and allowing oneself to be free to be who they are, acceptance, love, a gentle caregiver surrounded by small town holidays then you will love this book.

[Sarah Boo · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute treat

This book was so sweet and adorable and special to read. For anyone who's never read a "littles" aka age regression book. I'd say this is a perfect intro.

I loved how this book gave a safe space both for the characters and for the readers. Whether you're someone who participates in little/Daddy(or mommy) partnerships or are just someone who struggles to feel like you have a place. This is a great book to read.

There was a sweet gentleness to it and the spice was present but realitivly mild. But the moments that happened were so tender and with care. Chef's kiss.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A touching story. Rudy is a "little". He is dating someone who lets him down by telling him he needs to "grow-up". All his life Rudy always felt like second best, he decides for one he's going to do something for himself. Rudy takes a vacation to a small town called Winter Haven where he meets Graeme, a local shop owner who befriends him. They start out as just 2 people getting to know each other but there's a kin ship Rudy never expected, Graeme sees something in Rudy no-one ever did, him. Age Gap, HEA, Cozy Romance. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[abookwithacupoftea · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story was sweet, very christmassy and full of hope. Rudy visits a small town funded by two gay men, who wanted to create an inclusive and welcoming community, and he meets Graeme, the owner of a Christmas store, to whom he is instantly drawn to. Rudy is a little who never could really be himself and Graeme gives him the opportunity to be. I liked both MC, they complete each other.
However, I did not enjoy the style, that is completely a me thing, as it reads as a very slow motion film, with some time bleeps, and there was too many indirect sentences and incomplete thoughts.

I got an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Nat20 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A verry sweet slow burn. In this book, Rudy &Graeme have a whole lot of fear & doubt between. Past hurst, insecurities, & expectations to hid there trur self. But, surrounded by christmasy vibes and traditions, in a town based in acceptance & peace, there relationship blooms.

This is a very sweet daddy who follows his littles lead. Focusing on support and positive boundaries not bratt punishments. Perfect for those who are looking to see a relationship unfold on page.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sarah P]

I enjoyed this book, but I also found it quite intense (which is entirely possible due to my own state of mind and because I was a bit ill when I read it).

I often found myself with tears in my eyes. Ultimately, everything has a happy ending, but I would have appreciated a more in-depth exploration of the positive ending. The ending felt a bit short and abrupt after the long and profound journey to get there.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

All in all it was a good book that I would definitely recommend to people.

[Milo · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ Daddy’s Little Christmas by Denver Shaw is a sweet, cozy holiday read with plenty of festive heat and comfort vibes. While some moments felt a bit repetitive, I still genuinely enjoyed the story overall—the dynamic works, the tone is soft and indulgent, and it delivers exactly what you’d expect from a Christmas-themed romance. Perfect if you’re in the mood for something comforting, seasonal, and easy to sink into. 🎄📖

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[tobifun.pp · Rating 4 out of 5]

rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
spice: 🌶️🌶️
feelings: 😭🥰😱🥵😍🫠😡🥹

This is the story of a loving and caring Daddy who restores an insecure Little one's confidence.
Graeme Whitlock is a Daddy who has given up hope of finding true love. Rudy is a Little who has spent most of his life hiding his true nature. I was very proud of him when his boyfriend gave him the choice of either marrying him or preserving his suppressed needs, and he chose the latter.
What follows is a heartwarming story about two souls who are meant to be together finally experiencing true love.

[Terra keyse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has ALL the feels.

Not the typical "Little" book and I am HERE for it! Rudy, the "little" MMC, Foster kid with abandonment issues and has pushed his little down most of his adult life finds a home in Winterhaven and in the arms of Graem, the "Daddy" MMC who is a rock for Rudy and just helps him exist when he feel like he can't.

This is small town, found family, age gap queen romance at its best!

5/5 must read

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[April Flores · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wanted something slow and cute and this one didn’t disappoint. I love small town romance it’s one of my favorites and I love everything about this one.

Rudy is a little who couldn’t be himself in his relationship so he breaks it off and chooses himself. Months later he’s intrigued by a small town in Vermont and decides to go. What he didn’t expect was to meet Graeme a Daddy who saw him, who let him be himself and gave him the space he needed to let go. With Graeme he felt seen, loved and that he wasn’t too much. They were both what each other needed.

[Monikat · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tender story about two gentle men. This story felt like a light caress. The care taken not to upset the balance of the budding romance, the daddy/little part of the story delicately formed is like a whisper. And the need to take care of one delicate soul by another delicate soul creates a love so strong it would survive time.
A beautiful, wholesome story with a beautiful found 'town'. The Christmas vibes smelled of cinnamon, cocoa and all the sweet things.

[M E · Rating 5 out of 5]

This felt like reading poetry. The beauty of the prose was heart warming, kind, peaceful. True Christmas Magic. The perfect book to read Christmas morning.

At times, I have found Denver Shaw’s writing to be overly emotional and very internalized. It works amazingly well for some book and not for others. In this book it is absolute perfection!!

Thank you to Booksprout and Denver Shaw for the advanced copy. I am voluntarily leaving this review.