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Christmas Blue at Flynn's
‘Blue’ - Aussie slang for a fight/ an argument, as in “they’re having a blue” ~*~Christmas - peace and goodwill to all. At least, it was supposed to be. But all good intentions and plans can go awry, as Flynn found out.Can she save Christmas? Can she survive her family? Can Ben save her? Can her sanity remain intact? Will true love be hers? Or will the blues happening at Flynn’s end it all?
149 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2017
40 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Angela Verdenius
65 books677 followersI am a mixture of things - full-time worker, cat owner, writer, bookworm, supernatural horror movie buff, mystery series fan, and daydreamer.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 25, 2018
Flynn invited her two grandmothers and cousins to spend Christmas with her as a family – after all, it was better than everyone being alone – right? Flynn decided after only two days that she would have been better left to her own devices. And her best friend Ben, who lived next door, was doing his best to support her in the face of the hostility of the family from – where were they from?
Christmas Blue at Flynn’s by Aussie author Angela Verdenius is a light, over the top look at how Christmas can go wrong in the best – and worst – of families. Flynn, Ben, Phoebe the cat, and Scruff the dog were well-crafted characters; the rest were terrible. The story is also in need of editing which was a shame. I was disappointed in this novella, which was my first by this author.
Christmas Blue at Flynn’s by Aussie author Angela Verdenius is a light, over the top look at how Christmas can go wrong in the best – and worst – of families. Flynn, Ben, Phoebe the cat, and Scruff the dog were well-crafted characters; the rest were terrible. The story is also in need of editing which was a shame. I was disappointed in this novella, which was my first by this author.
January 2, 2019
Christmas Blue at Flynn’s is a novella by Australian author, Angela Verdenius. For a week, Flynn is hosting all those members of her family destined to spend Christmas alone: Gram, Gramma, cousin Dax and cousin Sally. But things aren’t working out quite how Flynn had planned: Gram and Gramma are at each other’s throats; Sally has brought along her obnoxious new boyfriend, Sid and both are obsessed with social media; and Dax seems to be gathering female admirers. Next-door-neighbour, Ben watches Flynn’s annoyance with barely concealed frustration: he’d been hoping to spend Christmas with Flynn alone.
While the short format may require some exaggeration for effect (quirks can be good in small doses), the stereotyping was a bit extreme: Gram (paternal grandmother) was possibly meant to be funny but was instead completely the opposite of charming: just crude and offensive; while Gramma (maternal grandmother) was crabby and disapproving; Ben was rather too good to be true; and Flynn! All that drama and angst! She just needed to chill.
Considering this novella was published in 2017, there are quite a few typographical errors that should have been fixed by now, but this is a light-hearted Christmas-themed romance with a happy ending that will suit romance lovers who don’t mind a bit of explicit sex in their read.
While the short format may require some exaggeration for effect (quirks can be good in small doses), the stereotyping was a bit extreme: Gram (paternal grandmother) was possibly meant to be funny but was instead completely the opposite of charming: just crude and offensive; while Gramma (maternal grandmother) was crabby and disapproving; Ben was rather too good to be true; and Flynn! All that drama and angst! She just needed to chill.
Considering this novella was published in 2017, there are quite a few typographical errors that should have been fixed by now, but this is a light-hearted Christmas-themed romance with a happy ending that will suit romance lovers who don’t mind a bit of explicit sex in their read.
December 1, 2019
‘Christmas Blue at Flynn’s’ is a novella which follows the lead up to Christmas Day where the main character, Flynn, has invited her dysfunctional, extended family to stay at her house.
Comforted by her friendly neighbour, Ben, she stays determined to the task to ensure everyone will be happy and present for Christmas Day.
The family bickering is as annoying and tiring as each of the outlandish family members, all of which have Flynn trying to shepard them around during the lead up to the big day. Was this the author’s method to highlight how stressful Christmas family gatherings can be in Australia? If so, then it worked - it dredged up my own memories of hot kitchens on hot days with a group of hot headed relatives that should never be together on the same day, let alone a day that is supposed to be joyous.
As you can imagine, not everything goes to plan as Flynn needs encouragement and support to see her plans followed through.
The erotic romance that the story was wrapped around was a welcome element - it was like an oasis in the desert of yobbo dialogue. And even thought there was no preamble warning that it was an erotic romance, it was mild and cute.
What lets ‘Christmas Blue at Flynn’s’ down is the grammatical and structural errors throughout the novel. It reads like a first draft in need of a good edit. At times it was hard to track who was talking, and there was a lot of unnecessary, repetitive dialogue to get a point across.
‘Christmas Blue at Flynn’s’ is a light read, I was hovering over 2 stars but gave it an extra one for the authors dogged, but patriotic, use of Australian slang. This one won't be to everyone's taste, but you might find it a fun read in the lead up to Christmas.
Comforted by her friendly neighbour, Ben, she stays determined to the task to ensure everyone will be happy and present for Christmas Day.
The family bickering is as annoying and tiring as each of the outlandish family members, all of which have Flynn trying to shepard them around during the lead up to the big day. Was this the author’s method to highlight how stressful Christmas family gatherings can be in Australia? If so, then it worked - it dredged up my own memories of hot kitchens on hot days with a group of hot headed relatives that should never be together on the same day, let alone a day that is supposed to be joyous.
As you can imagine, not everything goes to plan as Flynn needs encouragement and support to see her plans followed through.
The erotic romance that the story was wrapped around was a welcome element - it was like an oasis in the desert of yobbo dialogue. And even thought there was no preamble warning that it was an erotic romance, it was mild and cute.
What lets ‘Christmas Blue at Flynn’s’ down is the grammatical and structural errors throughout the novel. It reads like a first draft in need of a good edit. At times it was hard to track who was talking, and there was a lot of unnecessary, repetitive dialogue to get a point across.
‘Christmas Blue at Flynn’s’ is a light read, I was hovering over 2 stars but gave it an extra one for the authors dogged, but patriotic, use of Australian slang. This one won't be to everyone's taste, but you might find it a fun read in the lead up to Christmas.
December 20, 2017
5 stars
I loved this funny, silly, hot, heart warming story. Thus story had, love family, friendship and the reason for the season. I'm so glad Angela was able to put out a Christmas story. I really enjoyed it and hope we can see more of Flynn and Ben. They were both absolutely adorable and now two of my favorite characters.
I loved this funny, silly, hot, heart warming story. Thus story had, love family, friendship and the reason for the season. I'm so glad Angela was able to put out a Christmas story. I really enjoyed it and hope we can see more of Flynn and Ben. They were both absolutely adorable and now two of my favorite characters.
December 29, 2020
Christmas Blue at Flynn's is an entertaining Contemporary Romance set during the holidays. With thanks to the author for my digital copy of her novella.
December 18, 2017
I absolutely adore Angela Verdenius' stories, they are filled with friends that would do anything for each other, humor that has you laughing out loud, romance that makes you swoon and sigh, and emotions deep enough to take your breath away. They always manage to make me smile and if I find myself in the funk - either with reading or with life - I often cheer myself up with her books.
We always hear about those disaster stories about Christmas with family, and oh boy, does Flynn have relatives that can put out some drama and 'blue'. There are each of those stereotypes of family members represented and then drawn to the extream. I took turns with laughing, feeling sorry for Flynn, and getting upset with the inconsiderate and at times rude behavior from her relatives.
But thankfully Flynn has Ben. Ben is just perfect. He is a vet nurse and neighbor to Flynn. From the first moment Ben saw Flynn, he has been developing feelings towards her. Nothing has ever happened between them, they are friends, but Ben had high hopes of quiet Christmas together with Flynn and their fur babies.
I loved Ben, he is kind, generous, considerate man yet takes charge and is protective when needed. He stands up for Flynn when her relatives are about to walk all over her, and tolerates them when she wants to give them another chance. He is tender and gentle, and so in love with Flynn, it is impossible not to like him.
Flynn is not the doormat her relatives thought she was. Her heart is pure gold, she loves to bring people together and have fun, she helps around the neighborhood and loved by all because of her kindness and thoughtfulness.
Her feelings towards Ben has been developing for a year and while escaping her quarrelsome relatives to his peaceful home, the passion ignites and burns h.o.t.
The Australian culture, customs, and slang shine through from the tale, giving it an extra layer of enjoyment. Ben and Flynn stole my heart, made me laugh, and gave that extra shot of holiday spirit I so needed right now. Delightful and delectable, with lots of family drama, humour, and enticing, delicious romance, a fun novella for the holidays!
~ Four Spoon with a teaspoon on the side
We always hear about those disaster stories about Christmas with family, and oh boy, does Flynn have relatives that can put out some drama and 'blue'. There are each of those stereotypes of family members represented and then drawn to the extream. I took turns with laughing, feeling sorry for Flynn, and getting upset with the inconsiderate and at times rude behavior from her relatives.
But thankfully Flynn has Ben. Ben is just perfect. He is a vet nurse and neighbor to Flynn. From the first moment Ben saw Flynn, he has been developing feelings towards her. Nothing has ever happened between them, they are friends, but Ben had high hopes of quiet Christmas together with Flynn and their fur babies.
I loved Ben, he is kind, generous, considerate man yet takes charge and is protective when needed. He stands up for Flynn when her relatives are about to walk all over her, and tolerates them when she wants to give them another chance. He is tender and gentle, and so in love with Flynn, it is impossible not to like him.
Flynn is not the doormat her relatives thought she was. Her heart is pure gold, she loves to bring people together and have fun, she helps around the neighborhood and loved by all because of her kindness and thoughtfulness.
Her feelings towards Ben has been developing for a year and while escaping her quarrelsome relatives to his peaceful home, the passion ignites and burns h.o.t.
The Australian culture, customs, and slang shine through from the tale, giving it an extra layer of enjoyment. Ben and Flynn stole my heart, made me laugh, and gave that extra shot of holiday spirit I so needed right now. Delightful and delectable, with lots of family drama, humour, and enticing, delicious romance, a fun novella for the holidays!
~ Four Spoon with a teaspoon on the side
December 2, 2018
I enjoyed this one! Though it's not as fulfilling as I thought it would; because I feel like it's shorter than the usual, I still adore it. A very charming story with a holiday-ish vibe. Can't wait to read more from Angie!
December 9, 2018
Normally, I am a huge fan of this author, but I have to say that I wasn't that impressed with this story! While it was a bit of a realistic and accurate portrayal of what the craziness of the holiday season can do to you and your loved ones, I didn't really want the negativity in a "sweet escape" read such as this. The romance between Ben and Flynn took a back seat to all the fighting and hurt feelings, and I really hated that! We're told that Ben has admired Flynn from afar for a while now, and just now decides to make his move, but all his attempts at wooing are interrupted or outright diverted by Flynn's relatives. Thankfully, this was a quick read, but not one that I would consider re-reading during the holiday seasons to come.
December 11, 2018
This was a fun, quirky read. Written well (and explains a blue to us not in the know), colorful characters, emotions, a little steaminess, lots of ups and downs, and the perfect HEA. This was fun and enjoyable, if aggravating, book. I liked reading this and it definitely pulls you in, but not too far. ;) Great for passing time or something to escape in. I enjoyed watching the train-wreck of a holiday and completely understand. Good for anytime reading. Enjoy
September 17, 2024
I found this book for free via Bargainbooksy
The author promised "a little silly, a little light-hearted, a little romantic" and she delivered. We also got a lot of sadness and having everyone rethinking why in the world do we do Christmas together. A bit too realistic for me but it's a good story mainly because of the ending.
The author promised "a little silly, a little light-hearted, a little romantic" and she delivered. We also got a lot of sadness and having everyone rethinking why in the world do we do Christmas together. A bit too realistic for me but it's a good story mainly because of the ending.
December 16, 2018
I thought this was a silly story, badly written and with mostly unpleasant characters. Flynn and Ben were pleasant enough, but the rest were caricatures, except the cat and the dog, which were well written! Not recommended.
December 16, 2018
3.5 stars.
I haven't read anything by this author before but I picked up this book as it was being promoted as a free download through one of the Goodreads messages boards. It was fun. I found all the Australia references a bit much, but kinda cute.
A good, light, holiday read.
I haven't read anything by this author before but I picked up this book as it was being promoted as a free download through one of the Goodreads messages boards. It was fun. I found all the Australia references a bit much, but kinda cute.
A good, light, holiday read.
January 2, 2018
Great short read. Just love Angela''s books.
December 25, 2018
Ben lived next door to Flynn for a year and wanted more then being friends.
Flynn did not want to spend Christmas alone so she invited her family
but it did not go like she planned
Flynn did not want to spend Christmas alone so she invited her family
but it did not go like she planned
January 18, 2019
Unfortunately, I didn’t find much to like about this book. The writing is good. I just didn’t like the whole feel of the book – it was all so negative. A bunch of selfish, thoughtless characters. The only one I liked was the neighbor, Ben, and he may have been a little too nice (maybe it was just the huge difference between him and the other characters). Sorry I wasted my time on this one, but I might possible read another one by this author, hopefully a happier story.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews