A Perfect Christmas with Chaos

Harbingers Of Chaos #1.5

by Darby Briar

Need more of Mav and Ember?

Or better yet... Luce and Doll?

A Perfect Christmas with Chaos is a short story that gives you a peek into Ember's first Christmas with Mav. Read a part of their story that was never told before. Find out a little bit more about your favorite couple and Mav's sexy biker brothers. It's Christmas. It's Chaos. And the Harbingers of Chaos are coming for dinner.

Genres: Audiobook, Romance, Novella, Christmas, Contemporary, Short Stories, Contemporary Romance

55 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 24, 2015

About the author

Darby Briar is an American author who loves writing stories about men with broken souls and women who don’t know their own strength. She’s a lover of fiction whether it be a movie or book, but prefers stories with some romance, and ones that include a happy ending. She grew up in Utah and still lives in the northern part of the state. She’s married and her and her husband have three adorable kids.

Reviews

[♥Milica♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

The second book is coming out in August oh it's already August??, so I figured I should give this novella a listen beforehand. I'm not sure if I should wait for the audio of the second one (which isn't out till October) or not...

Anyway, not a lot to say about this, it was cute, cozy and a nice addition to the main book(s). The narrators did a fantastic job, Dozer stole the show as he always does, my baby. Then there's Bodie...I'm intrigued. My second fav man needs a book, STAT!!!

And please don't read this before reading Burning Ember okay? Okay. You'll miss some of the context.

[Lea ★ · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED IT!!! :)

[Carvanz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook: Narrators - Honey Scarlett and Leeroy Will

A nice narration of the characters developed in the previous books Burning Ember. Both of these narrators brought to life not only the hero and heroine, but all the brothers and other characters of Chaos.

This is a look at Ember’s first Christmas with Mav and it was such a nice addition to their story. It is not an extended epilogue, nor does it give us a look further into the future after their story ends. It takes place prior to the ending of Burning Ember. There is a bit of drama, plenty of wit and humor with the brothers and the ever-present steam between Ember and Mav.

[Joanne Maltas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Mav and ember .. It was short and sweet and left me wanting more ... Can't wait for the next book in this series ❤️

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and sweet

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoyed Burning Ember you will definitely want to read this. It was great to see these two characters again getting an update on how they are and what is new in their life.

Honey Scarlett, Leeroy Will narration was out of this world each hitting tones right on the money. You know just who is talking and what they are feeling. For me they made this audio what it is any other narrators would just not do it justice. Honey takes on the life of all the female roles with Lerroy taking on the male. Their many different voices were outstanding never leaving you guessing who was talking and just how they felt. There are no background noises or any places where the volume are higher or lower or tones off. There was one place where Lerroy repeated his self but no way does it take away from this outstanding narrator. They give you a listen you won’t be able to put down. If they took a break you cannot tell it is just one smooth listen that hooks you from start to finish. They made you feel the emotions at times you even wanted to cry and lord did they make you laugh. There performance was just outstanding giving the listener everything they want as the characters take on a life of their own. Just outstanding narration at its finest. I can’t wait to listen to more from this duo.
It is very short so there isn’t a lot one can say beside I love this author and her writing style. She really pulls you in giving you a very entertaining read that hooks you from the start.

[Samanthareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was just a novella, but it made me both laugh and cry😭🤧❤️
I now know that I will be reading all the books that are connected to Ember and Mav's story.

And Dozer, my man deserves his happy ending too😭❤️ My poor baby🥺
Can I have him instead?😩❤️

[Audio book lover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Darby Briar brings us a heartwarming and spicy holiday novella with A Perfect Christmas With Chaos. While it’s best enjoyed after reading Burning Amber, this short story still captures the charm and intensity of the Harbingers of Chaos universe, tempting new readers to dive deeper into the series.

🎄 The Plot:
Set during Ember’s first Christmas with Mav, this novella offers an intimate and festive glimpse into their lives. With Mav’s biker brothers joining the celebrations, it’s a mix of romance, humor, and the chaos only a biker family can bring. From tender moments under the mistletoe to the raucous dinner table, this story adds new layers to a beloved couple’s journey.

🔥 Why You’ll Love It:
• Festive Charm: Perfect for the holiday season, with a cozy yet passionate vibe.
• For the Fans: A delightful continuation for those who loved Burning Amber.
• Dynamic Characters: Mav, Ember, and the Harbingers of Chaos bring humor, heart, and heat.
• Standalone Appeal: Even if you’re new to the series, this novella offers enough intrigue to add Burning Amber to your TBR.

📖 Final Thoughts:
A Perfect Christmas With Chaos is a treat for Darby Briar fans and a festive teaser for new readers. Though it’s easier to connect with the story if you’ve already read Burning Amber, this novella is an enjoyable, romantic holiday escape that showcases the charm and heat of Mav and Ember’s world. Perfect for cozying up with during the holiday season! 🎅🔥

Thank you to Blue Nose Audio for the ALC access that made this review possible!

[Eleanor Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb performance as always !
My first by this author and now I want more..
definitely will be diving into the world of these characters as this was a fantastic piece of work!
But must reiterate that the narrators did a fantastic job especially Joe Arden.. this man sure knows how to bring the emotions therefore bringing the characters to life!
Just a fantastic story and audiobook!

AUDIOBOOK:(ALC)
A Perfect Christmas with Chaos (Harbingers of Chaos)

PERFORMERS:
Joe Arden and Marie Hawkins

Book overview
Need more of Mav and Ember?
Or better yet...Luce and Doll? A Perfect Christmas with Chaos is a short story that gives you a peek into Ember's first Christmas with Mav. Read a part of their story that was never told before. Find out a little bit more about your favorite couple and Mav's sexy biker brothers. It's Christmas. It's Chaos. And the Harbingers of Chaos are coming for dinner.

This Novella is a complete compilation of characters from Burning Embers book that I’m definitely diving into.
It was sassy sweet and funny well written and incredibly performed by two talented narrators!

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ incredible novella !
3.5🔥🔥🔥. Maybe 4 because this was spicy
10. 🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️🎙️Marie Hawkins and Joe Arden give depth and emotions to this story!

This ALC was Provided by bluenose Audio which I was appreciative to listen and review!
A special thanks for this incredible novella.

Thank you for reading my ratings and review of this novella,
Catch you on the next one💋
Georgious_eleanorpb🦋

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This delightful holiday story is a perfect festive escape that captures the essence of Christmas magic in just an hour. It begins with the joyful news of a pregnancy, introducing us to a happy couple whose journey unfolds with warmth and love. Despite its brevity, the narrative is rich with heartfelt moments and a deep connection between the characters that keeps you engaged throughout.
Although the story is light on spice, it more than compensates with its themes of love, growth, and the excitement of new beginnings. Each scene contributes to the overall sense of holiday cheer, making it an uplifting tale that is sure to warm your heart. Whether you're looking to relax with a cozy story or immerse yourself in the spirit of the season, this charming listen offers the perfect blend of comfort and joy.
Joe Arden and Marie Hawkins brought a delightful and immersive experience to their performance of this holiday novella. Infusing the story with just the right balance of emotion, drama, and passion making the characters come alive, adding depth to the narrative. Their skilled narration transformed the story into an auditory delight, making it a perfect companion for a relaxing cozy day indoors.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, if you haven’t read Burning Ember, Book 1 in the Harbingers of Chaos, go now. Do not pass Go, Do not collect $200, go Read It now. You’ll thank me because it’s a great MC book with great world-building and characters that you can’t wait to have their own book. After you’ve read Burning Ember, then read this wonderful novella that takes place right after the end of Burning Ember. It closes some loops with Ember’s family but it also leaves you wanting the next stories in the series about the other guys in the MC. Like Bodie…trust me when I tell you that he alone will make you want to read this series! I listened to the audio version of this novella performed in duet by Marie Hawkins and Joe Arden. Marie Hawkins is a new to me narrator and I enjoyed her performance very much. I look forward to hearing her voice more Ember in the future. Joe Arden’s ability to voice 7 different male voices and have me wondering where all those men came from is simply amazing. 5 stars for an amazing novella follow-up to Burning Ember and 5 stars for fantastic narrator performances.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio Review
Duet Narration by Marie Hawkins and Joe Arden
Harbingers of Chaos 1.5
3.5/4

A perfect Christmas with Chaos was my first Darby Briar book and while I truly enjoyed her writing style and I'm very intrigued to read book 1, I felt like I was missing key information with certain situations. As much as I did enjoy the characters and storyline, I am a little disappointed that book 1 was not released first since I now have some spoilers for their main story. Mav and Ember's spicy novella gives us a sweet Christmas story showcasing the Harbingers of Chaos MC. The side characters are very fascinating and as someone who loves MC romances I hope to dive into book 1 soon.

Duet narration by Marie Hawkins and Joe Arden portrayed Mav and Ember perfectly and Marie nailed the kid voice. I felt like they were a great pairing and hope that book 1 will be coming soon with them narrating.

[Erinnnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ALC REVIEW***

Plot: 5/5
Narration: 5/5
Spice: 2/5

I LOVE THIS! I really want more, and I'm made I can't have more HAHA

I really enjoyed the narration. what a great selection.

This book had me chuckling one minute and tearing up the next. It felts so real—full of quirky characters, holiday mishaps, and those brief moments that remind you what Christmas is really about.

The chaos? Hilarious. The family dynamics? Totally relatable. And the heartwarming moments? Absolutely perfect. I found myself rooting for the characters even when they were making a mess of things because it was all just so charming and fun.

The writing is witty and light, and the twists kept me on my toes. It’s one of those books you finish with a big smile on your face and a cosy feeling in your heart.

If you’re looking for a fun, feel-good holiday read that’s all about embracing the imperfections of the season, you’ve got to check this one out.

Thank you BNA and Darby for the ALC!

[Toni · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable fun and spicy novella from Darby Briar. We join Ember and Mav as they celebrate their first Christmas together. They welcome the biker brothers into their home for Christmas dinner, let chaos ensue with all the cheeky back and forth between the guys, wouldn’t expect anything different.

Marie Hawkins’ portrayal of Ember, and all the supporting female characters, in particular Will, is fantastic. I adored Will’s scenes. The way Mav loves on her….gorgeous!

Joe Arden as Mav, is performed to a T! Marie and Joe compliment each other’s performances as Ember and Mav with ease, especially their humorous banter with the biker brothers. My favourite part of this book.

As I have not yet read Burning Ember I am now very keen to dive into the notorious world of the Harbingers of Chaos MC. I need to know more of their story. I have a feeling it wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows.

Thank you Darby for an enjoyable story. Eagerly awaiting all the chaos of this series.

[Zee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Darby, thank you for this delightful Christmas biker romance novella!
I absolutely loved this story, even though it’s my first time reading one of your books. That’s about to change because I’m adding your entire catalog to my TBR list! Bodie stole the show for me—I couldn’t stop laughing at his antics. I’m crossing my fingers that one of your other books is about him because he’s such a standout character. Joe Arden’s narration brought Bodie to life perfectly, adding even more humor to the story.
Marie Hawkins was phenomenal, and I’m officially a new fan. Her tone was simply gorgeous, and her kid voice was spot-on adorable. Joe Arden also delivered as Mav, but his portrayal of Bodie really stood out for me.
This is a quick, fun, and heartwarming listen for the holiday season. If you love biker romances, this one’s a must-read (or listen)!

[Molly Jaber (Audiobooks And Sweet Tea) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for a good MC romance, and Christmas so this novella was absolutely perfect!! This is my first 𝙳𝚊𝚛𝚋𝚢 𝙱𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚛 book and it's not going to be my last! I had this one completed in less than two hours, so it was a great one to fill the space while I picked out my next listen.
‌
I loved falling hard for Ember & Mav! These two stole my heart! I can't wait to go back and read the beginning of their story in 𝑩𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑬𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓, because this one was 🎄♥️🔥! Mac's protectiveness over Ember was so swoonworthy!
‌
𝐽𝑜𝑒 𝐴𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑛 & 𝑀𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑒 𝐻𝑎𝑤𝑘𝑖𝑛𝑠 were the perfect pairing for bringing these characters to life. They nailed the main characters and did an epic job with the side characters. I felt the emotions and the passion and it hit me right in the feels!
‌
I can't wait to learn more about the 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗢𝗳 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗼𝘀 𝗠𝗖! If they are as addictive as Mav & Ember are??? Yes please!

[Jen Aisling · Rating 4 out of 5]

This bite-sized spicy story is part of Darby Briar’s Harbingers of Chaos series, and while I haven’t read the first book yet, that didn’t stop me from thoroughly enjoying this festive sliver of Mav and Ember’s world.

Joe Arden and Marie Hawkins are phenomenal narrators, pulling you straight into the steamy highs and emotional lows of this Christmas tale. Christmas Eve delivers all the sexy and sweet vibes, while Christmas Day lives up to the title with its dose of chaos and heartfelt moments.

Now I can’t wait to dive into the first book and fully immerse myself in this series! If you’re looking for a quick, spicy holiday listen with a touch of drama, A Perfect Christmas with Chaos is the perfect pick. 🎄🔥

[Kellie Rivera · Rating 5 out of 5]

CALIENTE!!!

*ALC REVIEW*
I absolutely love love love this beautiful Christmas Novela that only took me one day to finish it. Darby, my beauty you are an extraordinary author that I absolutely love and adore. This may have only been a small Christmas Novella, but it packed a punch from start to finish. Hands-down one of my new favorite side characters is Bodie. He’s hands-down one of the funniest side characters I’ve come across this year. Bodie is the best comic relief in this entire book and I seriously need more of his story so please please please Darby write his story. I’m willing to do about anything to get a book about him. If I have to beg, I’m willing to do that. I absolutely love the dynamic between Mav and Ember. Both of these beautiful characters are hands-down one of my new favorite book couples and holy moly. The chemistry between both of them are off the charts. This book truly did a number on me and officially I will be devouring all of your books Darby my beauty from now on. This beautiful novella has become my new addiction that won’t be quench until I actually read the first book in the series. Ember and Mav are so powerful that I couldn’t help to fall in love with both of them. They’re fiercely loyal to their found family. If you absolutely love, love love love a book about FMC and MMC that has a ferocity for each other, you need to get this book today because you will not under any circumstances regret it.

[Megs_darkreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
This was my first MC dark romance and I really enjoyed it! Absolutely loved Ember and her personality. Even after everything she had been through she fought to make a better life for herself. I love how she was able to bring another side out of all the guys not just Mav. Then you have dark and brooding Mav and I absolutely loved the whole progression of his character. The build up and tension between him and Em had me invested and impatiently waiting for them to finally give in! When Mav finally broke down, the new side we saw to him was everything! He needed someone like Em who would call him on his crap and keep him in line and she did exactly that! Getting to see them both finally get the happy ending they deserved was perfection!

[Libra Hasenpflug · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my ALC review:
I was so excited to read this novella. Darby has made me fall in love with 3 humans during this most wonderful time of the year! I wasn’t expecting this story to be so emotional, but it was. I missed the backstory of the main characters by diving into this one first which I don’t mind, there was so much depth in the book. It made me want to read the first book.
This was my first Marie Hawkins narrated book, and she was fantastic as Ember. She made me feel her joy and excitement! Joe Arden as the nervous yet calming Mav really set the tone of the story.
I love the extra content BNA gave at the end of the story!

[Sarah Geiger-Wealer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got the pleasure of listening to the audiobook for this novella…the narration performance was great and Joe as always has so much range when it comes to voicing multiple characters and giving them each their own personality. Story wise I feel like I was missing out on what was going on with the backstory, but luckily it only makes me want to go back and read the story that came before it, even tho now I know how it ends. It was a cute novella and definitely want to find out more about this world.

[Kirstie · Rating 4 out of 5]

5⭐️ narration
3⭐️ story

I think that had I read the previous books, I would have had a lot more context and been a lot less confused. Overall though, it was a cute novella that added some drama and sweet moments to this story. Joe Arden and Marie Hawkins absolutely ATE in this audio. There isn’t a single thing Joe could narrate that I wouldn’t read, and Marie has been a favorite of mine too. These two put so much heart and soul into this emotional novella, and I enjoyed the performance immensely.

[Kimmy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This charming, quick listen captures the magic of Christmas with a story full of warmth and love. Starting with a pregnancy and a happy couple, it sets the stage for a heartfelt journey. At just an hour long, it’s the perfect cozy escape during the holiday season.

Though it’s light on spice, the deep connection between the characters keeps you invested from start to finish. With themes of love, growth, and embracing new beginnings, this tale offers the perfect dose of holiday cheer. If you're looking for something uplifting to warm your heart, this is it!

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

** I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review **

I really like this authors writing...and these narrators are really good! This was a quick little christmas story that falls into the last chapters of the first book, during Mav and Embers first christmas..we get a few unanswered questions answered and to see the Hawks all come together for a nice christmas!!

LOVED IT AND HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS SERIES!!

[Confessions of a Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won't lie, I really wish this would have been a bit longer. Looks like Mav is still set on giving Ember everything she wants and didn't know she wants.

It is now Christmas and they are adjusting to family life and even when it looks like trouble may be coming Mav is front and center to protect Ember. This was a lovely update story on Mav, Ember, and Willow.

As with burning Ember, Marie and Joe were simply perfect!

[Bree_BooksNsweets · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love extended epilogue style novellas that dive into the grit of what “happily ever after” actually entails. The holiday theme to This motorcycle club family is perfect. A nice touch of spice in a short story so you get a quick hit of everything in one quick listen. The narrators did a great job performing these characters.

[Tali · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great novella/extended dialog. I do not know the backstory, but now I’m curious! I received this ALC through Blue Nose. Their narration and editing is always on point! Two narrators acting out multiple characters, including children and accents. Now I need to go back and get acquainted with these characters.

[Wendy Shouse · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I listened to the audiobook*
This has me intrigued. Definitely listen to this once the first books audio is out. I love MC romances. This one had bikers and Christmas cheer. Loved it.

Narrated in duet by Joe Arden and Marie Hawkins. Joe was great as always. I'm new to Marie. I really enjoyed her narrating.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first MC book and I am fully hooked. This novella was a perfect holiday read and had me wanting to know more about the MC members. Marie Hawkins and Joe Arden were perfectly cast and I am hoping they will be narrating book 1 in the series because I need more.

[Anna Lail · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoyed Burning Ember, you will want to read this! I love Mav and Ember! This is a short story of their first christmas together and the chaos that comes with hosting Christmas dinner. Honey Scarlett and Leeroy Will did an amazing job narrating this book! I need more from Darby!
ALC REVIEW