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Hometown Christmas
Can Yani and Gavin go from friends to lovers this Christmas?
Yani Nicolaou is sworn off love for good. After fleeing a bad break-up in London, the only blood, sweat, and tears he has left are for his gyro stall at the Christmas market. Rebound fling? No thanks. He’s sticking to one-night-stands.
Ex-army vet Gavin Richie has even less capacity for romance. Managing a homeless shelter while recovering from injury keeps him far too busy. So what if he’s often alone? He’s content being single, or so he thinks until a chance meeting lights a spark he can’t ignore.
Yani is the warmth and affection Gavin hadn’t known he was missing. As Christmas lights up the city, their lives entwine in more ways than one. Falling for each other is easy. Holding on is harder, unless a hometown Christmas proves their love can last longer than the festive season.
Hometown Christmas is a standalone MM Christmas novella.
Yani Nicolaou is sworn off love for good. After fleeing a bad break-up in London, the only blood, sweat, and tears he has left are for his gyro stall at the Christmas market. Rebound fling? No thanks. He’s sticking to one-night-stands.
Ex-army vet Gavin Richie has even less capacity for romance. Managing a homeless shelter while recovering from injury keeps him far too busy. So what if he’s often alone? He’s content being single, or so he thinks until a chance meeting lights a spark he can’t ignore.
Yani is the warmth and affection Gavin hadn’t known he was missing. As Christmas lights up the city, their lives entwine in more ways than one. Falling for each other is easy. Holding on is harder, unless a hometown Christmas proves their love can last longer than the festive season.
Hometown Christmas is a standalone MM Christmas novella.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2019
164 people are currently reading
631 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
95 books2,406 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
November 17, 2019
4.5
Garrett Leigh at her best here.
This is pretty much the perfect Christmas story.It's not all tinsel and baubles,it's more low key twinkling lights because it's not all about Christmas.It's a story that happens to take place in the run up to Christmas.
Once again Garrett Leigh has created two highly likeable men. There's a grittiness about it because Gavin and Yani have their problems,they haven't exactly walked in a straight line.Both men's issues felt real and the Author tackled them extremely well.
Their first encounter was everything! That moment when you lock eyes with someone and the attraction is all consuming.I could totally picture them standing in that coffee shop just staring at each other.
I was so happy to get another story by her set in the North of England.Leeds has become a kind of second home to me and I could picture vividly the Christmas market where Yani had his food stall.
Highly recommended.You'll fall in love with Gavin and Yani,I'm sure.
Garrett Leigh at her best here.
This is pretty much the perfect Christmas story.It's not all tinsel and baubles,it's more low key twinkling lights because it's not all about Christmas.It's a story that happens to take place in the run up to Christmas.
Once again Garrett Leigh has created two highly likeable men. There's a grittiness about it because Gavin and Yani have their problems,they haven't exactly walked in a straight line.Both men's issues felt real and the Author tackled them extremely well.
Their first encounter was everything! That moment when you lock eyes with someone and the attraction is all consuming.I could totally picture them standing in that coffee shop just staring at each other.
I was so happy to get another story by her set in the North of England.Leeds has become a kind of second home to me and I could picture vividly the Christmas market where Yani had his food stall.
Highly recommended.You'll fall in love with Gavin and Yani,I'm sure.
This review is posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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November 18, 2024
Hometown Christmas is a stand alone, holiday, MM romance novella. This is such a sweet story about two people that had given up on love.
Gavin Richie is thirty eight years old. He left the military after twenty years of service with a severe injury that he is still recovering from. Gavin has had a little trouble adapting to civilian life but he’s dealing with his issues head on. He is working for a homeless shelter but spends most of his time alone.
Yani Nicolaou is twenty eight years old. His last relationship left him bitter and swearing off love forever. One night stands is all he wants. Yani is a chef and has a gyro stall at an outdoor market. Every ounce of his energy goes into making his little business successful. But when his best friend asks him to fill in to cook dinner for the local homeless shelter, he can’t say no.
The first time these two see each other, sparks are flying. But as they get to know each other, neither are prepared for the feelings they encounter. Especially Yani who wants to keep his heart sealed up tight. But he is finding that increasingly difficult when he is around Gavin. As Christmas approaches, and they become closer, they will have to decide if they are willing to risk everything, or walk away.
As I said above, this was really sweet. Steamy as well! Both of these two deserved love, they just had to open their hearts. I struggled quite a bit with the terminology, especially in the beginning. As the book progressed, I figured out some of them and it did take away from my overall enjoyment. But, I love Garrett’s books so I’m going to go with four stars.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Gavin Richie is thirty eight years old. He left the military after twenty years of service with a severe injury that he is still recovering from. Gavin has had a little trouble adapting to civilian life but he’s dealing with his issues head on. He is working for a homeless shelter but spends most of his time alone.
Yani Nicolaou is twenty eight years old. His last relationship left him bitter and swearing off love forever. One night stands is all he wants. Yani is a chef and has a gyro stall at an outdoor market. Every ounce of his energy goes into making his little business successful. But when his best friend asks him to fill in to cook dinner for the local homeless shelter, he can’t say no.
The first time these two see each other, sparks are flying. But as they get to know each other, neither are prepared for the feelings they encounter. Especially Yani who wants to keep his heart sealed up tight. But he is finding that increasingly difficult when he is around Gavin. As Christmas approaches, and they become closer, they will have to decide if they are willing to risk everything, or walk away.
As I said above, this was really sweet. Steamy as well! Both of these two deserved love, they just had to open their hearts. I struggled quite a bit with the terminology, especially in the beginning. As the book progressed, I figured out some of them and it did take away from my overall enjoyment. But, I love Garrett’s books so I’m going to go with four stars.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
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November 22, 2019
Time of Death @ 63%
Oh my, apparently there is a first time for everything... I never thought I would see the day where I give up on a Garrett Leigh book, but apparently the curse of highly anticipated books is a thing lately.
I virtually begged on my knees for Wedge's story since I've read Between Ghosts and Soul to Keep, and now that I got it, I'm dragging my feet here and I think it's time to move on. The chemistry between Gavin (Wedge) and Yani is missing the spark for me, fade-to-black sex scenes are a pet peeve of mine and I'm bored out of my mind by the story...
"You're nothing like Jamie, and I'm nothing like Marc. If I was, I'd know all the answers and we wouldn't spend all this time talking in circles."
Exactly!
Another well-loved book where I'm the odd one out, so please just ignore me. :(
Oh my, apparently there is a first time for everything... I never thought I would see the day where I give up on a Garrett Leigh book, but apparently the curse of highly anticipated books is a thing lately.
I virtually begged on my knees for Wedge's story since I've read Between Ghosts and Soul to Keep, and now that I got it, I'm dragging my feet here and I think it's time to move on. The chemistry between Gavin (Wedge) and Yani is missing the spark for me, fade-to-black sex scenes are a pet peeve of mine and I'm bored out of my mind by the story...
"You're nothing like Jamie, and I'm nothing like Marc. If I was, I'd know all the answers and we wouldn't spend all this time talking in circles."
Exactly!
Another well-loved book where I'm the odd one out, so please just ignore me. :(
November 25, 2019
4.5 Stars!
Classic Garrett Leigh.
Christmas story perfection.
Classic Garrett Leigh.
Christmas story perfection.
December 6, 2019
Want to just start off by saying "kudos" to the author for not only writing an incredibly sweet and lovely love story between her two main characters, but did it with both of them having mental conditions. She created two flawed but perfect men, one with OCD and the other PTSD and she did so with such realism, humor and love that it took my breath away. I completely and utterly fell in love with Yani and Gavin. I loved the fact that each of them, though having to deal with the day to day issue of their condition, still managed not only to come together but also to volunteer and help others. It reminded me that no matter how bad my day may have been, there are always other's whose day has be worse. Love one another and help others when you can! My favorite Christmas book so far this season!
November 6, 2019
I've been wanting Wedge's story since he first appeared in Garrett's stunningly brilliant books Between Ghosts and the Rented Heart series.
Once the joker of the pack, since his accident, he's retreated into himself and moved back home.
And, once again, I'm tickled by Garrett setting another book in my birth place of Leeds. She gets all the nuisances which make it such a fascinating city right.
Another thing she nails is her military research. I've said it before, I've family who were Special Forces and they're a unique breed who never speak other than in abstract about their service.
Garrett's note at the end of the book is spot on.
Here, Gavin's army experience and his relationships with Marc and Nat, (and through them also with Jamie and Connor) and their losses and traumas, are so perfectly expressed.
And Yani. I loved Yani. He's so different from Jamie but he works for Gavin just like the younger man does for Marc. It's no secret that their book Soul To Keep, is my absolute favourite of all Garrett's books, but this one comes close.
It's not your typical Christmas romance, it touches on the harsh realities of big cities and their problems with the homeless and the lack of facilities to care for them.
It looks at both living with OCD and with the aftermath of PTSD, but it's none the less a tale of hope. Of finding the moments that bring joy and of letting your heart be filled with the spark of love.
A fabulous addition to the military romance shelf of works from Garrett.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review .
Once the joker of the pack, since his accident, he's retreated into himself and moved back home.
And, once again, I'm tickled by Garrett setting another book in my birth place of Leeds. She gets all the nuisances which make it such a fascinating city right.
Another thing she nails is her military research. I've said it before, I've family who were Special Forces and they're a unique breed who never speak other than in abstract about their service.
Garrett's note at the end of the book is spot on.
Here, Gavin's army experience and his relationships with Marc and Nat, (and through them also with Jamie and Connor) and their losses and traumas, are so perfectly expressed.
And Yani. I loved Yani. He's so different from Jamie but he works for Gavin just like the younger man does for Marc. It's no secret that their book Soul To Keep, is my absolute favourite of all Garrett's books, but this one comes close.
It's not your typical Christmas romance, it touches on the harsh realities of big cities and their problems with the homeless and the lack of facilities to care for them.
It looks at both living with OCD and with the aftermath of PTSD, but it's none the less a tale of hope. Of finding the moments that bring joy and of letting your heart be filled with the spark of love.
A fabulous addition to the military romance shelf of works from Garrett.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review .
December 15, 2019
Garrett Leigh never fails to transport me to a world far, far away. Even though her settings are typically just "across the pond", there is something about her characters and their lives that is completely foreign to me. To say that she captures my imagination is putting it mildly. When I dive into one of her books I know I'm going on a full adventure with words, scenes and people that are wholly unique.
I'm not sure I'd call Gavin and Yani's story a happy little Christmas tale. Then again, are any of Leigh's stories happy little tales? Her characters are often broken, damaged beyond comprehension, usually struggling to get by day by day. And yet, she imbues those lives with an acceptance that is bone deep. In the end, their HEAs are not of the fairy tale variety, but in the beautiful way we can all find happiness in acceptance of others and of ourselves.
I'm not sure I'd call Gavin and Yani's story a happy little Christmas tale. Then again, are any of Leigh's stories happy little tales? Her characters are often broken, damaged beyond comprehension, usually struggling to get by day by day. And yet, she imbues those lives with an acceptance that is bone deep. In the end, their HEAs are not of the fairy tale variety, but in the beautiful way we can all find happiness in acceptance of others and of ourselves.
December 4, 2019
Loved it, the wait for Wedge's story so worth the wait.
Gavin + Yani = Christmas happy place 💖
Gavin + Yani = Christmas happy place 💖
November 25, 2019
*3.5 stars*
A holiday read by Garrett Leigh, Hometown Christmas is a story about giving love and compassion to those around you.
Yani is a cook from Cyprus that has lived in England for years while his whole family is back on the island. He has worked many festivals with a food track and it's finally the time for him to do something of his own, so now he has a tent at the market.
Gavin is ex-military, out because of an accident that happened while he was abroad. He's been out for a few years working in night shelters as a shift manager.
Their work places are pretty close so it was inevitable for them to meet at some point. Especially with Yani's best friend also working at the same shelter as Gavin.
Usually, I avoid holiday stories because everything moves very fast and I prefer for the MCs to take their time. This story though didn't feel so rushed. Yes, they moved along fairly quickly but at the same time there was a bit of time for them to get to know each other. I liked that they spent time together talking and cooking, helping each other out.
My main complain had to do with the editing in the first half. There were no spelling mistakes or missed words and I want to mention that. However, every time a chapter changed I got lost for the first couple of paragraphs. I didn't know how much time had passed since the previous chapter, I didn't know were the characters were supposed to be and generally didn't know what was happening. It was a weird feeling but in the second half of the book there was no such problem and everything was fine.
Both of the MCs are side characters from previous books and there are hints throughout the story about it. So, now I'm all curious about these other stories and have to read them, especially Between Ghosts!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
A holiday read by Garrett Leigh, Hometown Christmas is a story about giving love and compassion to those around you.
Yani is a cook from Cyprus that has lived in England for years while his whole family is back on the island. He has worked many festivals with a food track and it's finally the time for him to do something of his own, so now he has a tent at the market.
Gavin is ex-military, out because of an accident that happened while he was abroad. He's been out for a few years working in night shelters as a shift manager.
Their work places are pretty close so it was inevitable for them to meet at some point. Especially with Yani's best friend also working at the same shelter as Gavin.
Usually, I avoid holiday stories because everything moves very fast and I prefer for the MCs to take their time. This story though didn't feel so rushed. Yes, they moved along fairly quickly but at the same time there was a bit of time for them to get to know each other. I liked that they spent time together talking and cooking, helping each other out.
My main complain had to do with the editing in the first half. There were no spelling mistakes or missed words and I want to mention that. However, every time a chapter changed I got lost for the first couple of paragraphs. I didn't know how much time had passed since the previous chapter, I didn't know were the characters were supposed to be and generally didn't know what was happening. It was a weird feeling but in the second half of the book there was no such problem and everything was fine.
Both of the MCs are side characters from previous books and there are hints throughout the story about it. So, now I'm all curious about these other stories and have to read them, especially Between Ghosts!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
November 17, 2019
Nobody's sadder than me when a Garrett Leigh book doesn't become a favorite. I enjoyed Hometown Christmas but I did not love it, at least not with the ferocity I usually love a book by this author. I absolutely believe that had the story been longer, I wouldn't have liked this a lot more. But somehow it felt short, rushed and maybe a little....unbalanced.
First things first, I counted on Leigh to nail the Greek MC and I was right. There wasn't a lot of Greekness in it, but what was there -the cooking, the recipes, the mindset of a Greek cook- was very genuine.
The tone of the narration, the writing that flows and the grittiness that I have come to love about this author's writing was present throughout the story.
BUT. Somehow this couple did not work out for me. I felt the connection in the beginning but then I totally lost it for a number of reasons; their personal issues (although they weren't fully explored) took over and the romance suffered because of it. The first few sex scenes were fade to black, a very rare thing in a GL book. The "I love you's" came out of nowhere, at least that's how I felt.
Still, this is a very feel-good, holiday story and, if you like this author, you should still go for it.
First things first, I counted on Leigh to nail the Greek MC and I was right. There wasn't a lot of Greekness in it, but what was there -the cooking, the recipes, the mindset of a Greek cook- was very genuine.
The tone of the narration, the writing that flows and the grittiness that I have come to love about this author's writing was present throughout the story.
BUT. Somehow this couple did not work out for me. I felt the connection in the beginning but then I totally lost it for a number of reasons; their personal issues (although they weren't fully explored) took over and the romance suffered because of it. The first few sex scenes were fade to black, a very rare thing in a GL book. The "I love you's" came out of nowhere, at least that's how I felt.
Still, this is a very feel-good, holiday story and, if you like this author, you should still go for it.
December 6, 2019
I hate to admit that it’s been too long for me to remember Wedge (Gavin) from previous books, but I really liked him (again) anyway!
Both Gavin and Yani are complex characters with tons of past and present issues to deal with. Gavin’s back injury from his military service and Yani’s OCD being the major ones that come into play here.
If that sounds pretty heavy going for a Christmas novella, don’t worry. Yes, there are serious questions raised and life changing moments happen in the best sort of way, but it doesn’t weigh the plot down like a lead ball, rather enhancing it with a bit of grit and realistic feels.
Despite their immediate, initial attraction, the relationship between Gavin and Yani develops slowly and with a lot of care. They do become friends before they move into the ‘more’ territory which I really appreciated.
However, for some reason I didn’t quite feel the massive fireworks between the guys I’d hoped for. Don’t get me wrong, they’re totally nice guys and hugely likeable, and I enjoyed their journey, but emotionally, it didn’t bowl me over.
This is a well written and unusually deep Christmas novella which I’m sure many will enjoy.
Both Gavin and Yani are complex characters with tons of past and present issues to deal with. Gavin’s back injury from his military service and Yani’s OCD being the major ones that come into play here.
If that sounds pretty heavy going for a Christmas novella, don’t worry. Yes, there are serious questions raised and life changing moments happen in the best sort of way, but it doesn’t weigh the plot down like a lead ball, rather enhancing it with a bit of grit and realistic feels.
Despite their immediate, initial attraction, the relationship between Gavin and Yani develops slowly and with a lot of care. They do become friends before they move into the ‘more’ territory which I really appreciated.
However, for some reason I didn’t quite feel the massive fireworks between the guys I’d hoped for. Don’t get me wrong, they’re totally nice guys and hugely likeable, and I enjoyed their journey, but emotionally, it didn’t bowl me over.
This is a well written and unusually deep Christmas novella which I’m sure many will enjoy.
December 25, 2022
Angstier than expected, but cute.
Lots of mental health talks
An ex soldier and a cook
In Leeds
Both have mental health challenges
Low heat
High cuddles
Not my favorite by this author, but fine enough.
Lots of mental health talks
An ex soldier and a cook
In Leeds
Both have mental health challenges
Low heat
High cuddles
Not my favorite by this author, but fine enough.
December 21, 2019
I’m a creature of habit. I have a small list of places that sing to my soul and caught in the midst of Leigh’s words is one of them. There are many reasons why I continue to seek her blissful (okay, not always but I AM happy by the end!) havens but the unending cord that connects her stories is on the top of the list. I am rather fond of all her friends and can’t tell you how happy it makes me when they reappear in a new light. I was bouncing in my seat when I realized Gavin was Wedge from our SAS boys. And it didn’t take me long to place Yani either. I try and pay extra close attention to any background cast in her stories because you never know when they might pop up again. Turns out happy-go-lucky Gavin didn’t have quite the fancy-free life he portrayed. But of course, that’s expected when it comes to Garrett’s guys. When Yani lends a hand to the shelter Gavin runs, the simmer from their first encounter sparks bright and it’s not accidental that their paths continue to cross. Shame Yani has sworn off relationships. But casual is cool. Besides, neither men have the time or energy for anything more. They are stretched thin and running on fumes. Or maybe…is love the missing charge they both so desperately need?
What's to like: As I mentioned earlier, there’s always loads to like when it comes to Garrett’s books. This time we follow the guys to their hometown. I couldn’t get enough of the market! I’ve never been to Leeds but I feel as though I have. I want to see everything but more than that, I want to eat everything! A rumbling tummy is a common element when I’m reading anything from Leigh. Food is very much comfort here and I adored how Yani embellishes his creations with precision and utmost care. I can always count on any growing hunger to be completely sated by the final pages. And Hometown Christmas was no different, I was delightfully full. Both men were a bit of ‘work in progress’ and I very much enjoyed tagging along their journey.
What's to love: Ummm, where do I start? It’s easy to say I loved both Gavin and Yani. I loved learning about where they’d been and what they hoped to do. I loved their friends. I loved their ginormous hearts. I loved how despite wanting to care for others, they failed to recognize being cared for was equally important. I loved their passion. I loved their stubborn streaks. I loved how…it may not have been easy to be together but it certainly was worth it. I just plain loved it and I think you will too.
Beware of: Imperfect men find their perfect match….when neither were looking. Our soldier bears scars….not all are visible. And a succulent reminder that food is far more than nourishment…it’s culture and identity and maybe even, a dash of soul.
This book is for: If you’re not familiar with Garrett’s books, you should fix that quick…and start here with this lovely story about not only finding your way home but finding your heart’s desires along the way.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: As I mentioned earlier, there’s always loads to like when it comes to Garrett’s books. This time we follow the guys to their hometown. I couldn’t get enough of the market! I’ve never been to Leeds but I feel as though I have. I want to see everything but more than that, I want to eat everything! A rumbling tummy is a common element when I’m reading anything from Leigh. Food is very much comfort here and I adored how Yani embellishes his creations with precision and utmost care. I can always count on any growing hunger to be completely sated by the final pages. And Hometown Christmas was no different, I was delightfully full. Both men were a bit of ‘work in progress’ and I very much enjoyed tagging along their journey.
What's to love: Ummm, where do I start? It’s easy to say I loved both Gavin and Yani. I loved learning about where they’d been and what they hoped to do. I loved their friends. I loved their ginormous hearts. I loved how despite wanting to care for others, they failed to recognize being cared for was equally important. I loved their passion. I loved their stubborn streaks. I loved how…it may not have been easy to be together but it certainly was worth it. I just plain loved it and I think you will too.
Beware of: Imperfect men find their perfect match….when neither were looking. Our soldier bears scars….not all are visible. And a succulent reminder that food is far more than nourishment…it’s culture and identity and maybe even, a dash of soul.
This book is for: If you’re not familiar with Garrett’s books, you should fix that quick…and start here with this lovely story about not only finding your way home but finding your heart’s desires along the way.
Book UNfunk
November 19, 2019
Hometown Christmas is holiday romance Garrett Leigh style. The tone of the story is one of hope. We have two men who are, in a sense starting over. Yani has recently gotten out of a bad relationship, and Gavin has been discharged from the military and overcomes physical injuries he suffered while enlisted.
While the story holds the warm feelings of the holidays, it still sheds light on real-life issues- homelessness, PTSD, OCD. I love that she was able to capture the spirit of the holidays while still - for lack of a better way to put it- kept it real.
Some things I loved:
-Their first meeting. Talk about a feeling of kismet. I felt the rush of awareness, the attraction between them.
-Romance, it wasn't rushed, and I loved how patient Gavin was with Yani.
-Alternating POVs.
-Steady story flow.
-The message of hope throughout the book.
Life can be harsh and unforgiving, and sometimes we get so stuck in our realities that we ignore or fail to see others' hardships. Despite everything that Gavin and Yani have endured, they're doing something to bring a little bit of comfort to those less fortunate. I truly felt that Garrett Leigh delivered what the holidays are, should be, about.
I found Hometown Christmas to be lovely.
4.5 Stars.
While the story holds the warm feelings of the holidays, it still sheds light on real-life issues- homelessness, PTSD, OCD. I love that she was able to capture the spirit of the holidays while still - for lack of a better way to put it- kept it real.
Some things I loved:
-Their first meeting. Talk about a feeling of kismet. I felt the rush of awareness, the attraction between them.
-Romance, it wasn't rushed, and I loved how patient Gavin was with Yani.
-Alternating POVs.
-Steady story flow.
-The message of hope throughout the book.
Life can be harsh and unforgiving, and sometimes we get so stuck in our realities that we ignore or fail to see others' hardships. Despite everything that Gavin and Yani have endured, they're doing something to bring a little bit of comfort to those less fortunate. I truly felt that Garrett Leigh delivered what the holidays are, should be, about.
I found Hometown Christmas to be lovely.
4.5 Stars.
December 7, 2023
Re-read Dec. 1, 2023
Re-read Nov. 14, 2021
In England, two men with deep, dark insecurities, flaws and loneliness meet and ponder the reality of truly letting someone into their lives.
Yani, 28, Greek chef who works a Food Market stall in Leeds,
has OCD, and has failed romance. His best gal friend, Bex, calls in a favor, so he agrees to cook at the homeless shelter.
Gavin, 38, ex-military, with war wounds and tattoos, runs the shelter.
When the men meet, it's instant attraction, but neither guy thinks he can have a long term relationship, but fooling around sounds good. We get their back stories, their problems, their great qualities, and the daily struggles. Our men are getting to know a lot about each other, how family and friends are, and each can read the other man easily, which is rare.
Long talks, inner thought filled turmoils, and the hottest, best sex either man has ever had, cements their bonding. There are more meals cooked,
nights spent in bed, and passions met.
Trust and openness join in also.
Can they really make a go of it?
Wonderful tale uniting two needy souls.
ENJOY !
=======
Re-read Nov. 14, 2021
In England, two men with deep, dark insecurities, flaws and loneliness meet and ponder the reality of truly letting someone into their lives.
Yani, 28, Greek chef who works a Food Market stall in Leeds,
has OCD, and has failed romance. His best gal friend, Bex, calls in a favor, so he agrees to cook at the homeless shelter.
Gavin, 38, ex-military, with war wounds and tattoos, runs the shelter.
When the men meet, it's instant attraction, but neither guy thinks he can have a long term relationship, but fooling around sounds good. We get their back stories, their problems, their great qualities, and the daily struggles. Our men are getting to know a lot about each other, how family and friends are, and each can read the other man easily, which is rare.
Long talks, inner thought filled turmoils, and the hottest, best sex either man has ever had, cements their bonding. There are more meals cooked,
nights spent in bed, and passions met.
Trust and openness join in also.
Can they really make a go of it?
Wonderful tale uniting two needy souls.
ENJOY !
=======
December 24, 2020
The Story: 2
Narration:3.5
January 25, 2022
This has a lot more depth and story than many Christmas books, and the warm ending is hard-won and not just icing on the cake. You don't have to have read other books by this author, but if you have, you'll recognize Gavin as Wedge. Home in Leeds after his injury and the loss of the tight military community that was his world, he's running a homeless shelter, spending all his time on that project because he has very little outside it. His PTSD is well-played, present, important, but not overwhelming the story or his life. And his difficulty making a transition from the life he knew to this new one is totally understandable and easy to empathize with.
Yani is a great character, a man who loves to feed people, who has combined his passion with his work. As is often the case with this author, the descriptions of his food are enticing. Running his gyros stall in the street market doesn't leave him a lot of time, but he's up for some hot sex with a man he's intrigued by. He doesn't expect anything more. His mild OCD is again a player in his character and his life, but not something that defines him.
I really liked both these men and was pulling for them to figure out how well they fit. The plight of the homeless in cities underlies this story, and gives it added depth. And the HEA is one they work for, and very satisfying.
Yani is a great character, a man who loves to feed people, who has combined his passion with his work. As is often the case with this author, the descriptions of his food are enticing. Running his gyros stall in the street market doesn't leave him a lot of time, but he's up for some hot sex with a man he's intrigued by. He doesn't expect anything more. His mild OCD is again a player in his character and his life, but not something that defines him.
I really liked both these men and was pulling for them to figure out how well they fit. The plight of the homeless in cities underlies this story, and gives it added depth. And the HEA is one they work for, and very satisfying.
December 8, 2019
“Hometown Christmas” was my first Christmas story for the 2019 holiday season...and
...it turned out to be a good choice. I freely admit I’m not only a fan of this author, I’m also a fan of Christmas, so to me this sounded like a good combination.
Yani Nicolaou has sworn off romance and fled London with a broken heart. He’s all about making a success of his gyro stall at the Christmas Market. There’s no time or room for romance in his life, if he’s lucky he could maybe squeeze in a one night stand every now and then but that’s it…nothing more for him.
If you’ve read some of Garrett Leigh’s previous books…specifically ‘Between Ghost’, ‘Soul to Keep’, ‘Misfits’ and ‘Stray’ than you’ve already met Gavin and Yani. Gavin or ‘Wedge’ as he’s called by his brothers in arms appears in ‘Between Ghost’ and in ‘Soul to Keep’. While Yani appeared originally in the ‘Urban Soul’ series. However, if you haven’t read these books you can still comfortably enjoy ‘Hometown Christmas’ it stands on it’s own quite easily.
Gavin Richie is still adjusting to his return to civilian life after a 20 year stint in the military and running a homeless shelter..needless to say that’s all he has the time, room or energy for in his life…the end.
Lol, silly Yani and Gavin what they don’t realize is that love does what it wants and at Christmas time…love can do anything it wants including breaking down the barriers that two hearts have diligently worked on creating to protect themselves.
Yani and Gavin are a sweet and touching example of the fact that when love happens it’s not about the perfect time, the perfect place or perfect people. Love is that wonderful thing that happens when we expect it the least and need it the most. It doesn’t care how a person looks or if they think they’re ready for it…it just happens.
Yani has OCD and he’s been hurt but he’s still got such a bright, vibrant and giving personality. Gavin has PTSD and his hands are full with running a homeless shelter but he finds himself drawn to Yani and when Yani’s best friend convinces him to help out in the kitchen of said homeless shelter Gavin is happily surprised to see the attractive man from the coffee shop who he’d been unable to get out of his thoughts standing in the shelter’s kitchen.
Without a doubt Garrett Leigh has the ability to create characters that are simply perfect in their imperfections and able to work their way into the readers heart effortlessly. Gavin and Yani’s story is a heartwarming story of two people finding each other and falling in love during what is considered by many to not only be the most wonderful time of the year but also the busiest and most stressful time of the year and yet these two men give of themselves not only to their community but to each other as well.
While this story is set at Christmas time and even though the time of year makes for a very nice setting for the story, this is a story that could take place at any time of the year or be read during any time of the year.
*************************
A copy of “Hometown Christmas” was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
...it turned out to be a good choice. I freely admit I’m not only a fan of this author, I’m also a fan of Christmas, so to me this sounded like a good combination.
Yani Nicolaou has sworn off romance and fled London with a broken heart. He’s all about making a success of his gyro stall at the Christmas Market. There’s no time or room for romance in his life, if he’s lucky he could maybe squeeze in a one night stand every now and then but that’s it…nothing more for him.
If you’ve read some of Garrett Leigh’s previous books…specifically ‘Between Ghost’, ‘Soul to Keep’, ‘Misfits’ and ‘Stray’ than you’ve already met Gavin and Yani. Gavin or ‘Wedge’ as he’s called by his brothers in arms appears in ‘Between Ghost’ and in ‘Soul to Keep’. While Yani appeared originally in the ‘Urban Soul’ series. However, if you haven’t read these books you can still comfortably enjoy ‘Hometown Christmas’ it stands on it’s own quite easily.
Gavin Richie is still adjusting to his return to civilian life after a 20 year stint in the military and running a homeless shelter..needless to say that’s all he has the time, room or energy for in his life…the end.
Lol, silly Yani and Gavin what they don’t realize is that love does what it wants and at Christmas time…love can do anything it wants including breaking down the barriers that two hearts have diligently worked on creating to protect themselves.
Yani and Gavin are a sweet and touching example of the fact that when love happens it’s not about the perfect time, the perfect place or perfect people. Love is that wonderful thing that happens when we expect it the least and need it the most. It doesn’t care how a person looks or if they think they’re ready for it…it just happens.
Yani has OCD and he’s been hurt but he’s still got such a bright, vibrant and giving personality. Gavin has PTSD and his hands are full with running a homeless shelter but he finds himself drawn to Yani and when Yani’s best friend convinces him to help out in the kitchen of said homeless shelter Gavin is happily surprised to see the attractive man from the coffee shop who he’d been unable to get out of his thoughts standing in the shelter’s kitchen.
Without a doubt Garrett Leigh has the ability to create characters that are simply perfect in their imperfections and able to work their way into the readers heart effortlessly. Gavin and Yani’s story is a heartwarming story of two people finding each other and falling in love during what is considered by many to not only be the most wonderful time of the year but also the busiest and most stressful time of the year and yet these two men give of themselves not only to their community but to each other as well.
While this story is set at Christmas time and even though the time of year makes for a very nice setting for the story, this is a story that could take place at any time of the year or be read during any time of the year.
*************************
A copy of “Hometown Christmas” was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2022
Zupełnie nie mogłam się wkręcić w historię chłopaków 😕
Ale istnieje naprawdę bardzo duże prawdopodobieństwo, że czas, w którym ją czytałam, czyli ostatnie szalone dni w robocie przed jakże zasłużoną przerwą świąteczno-noworoczną, przyczynił się do tego baaaaardzo. Zatem, jeżeli ktokolwiek, w jakikolwiek sposób, kiedykolwiek bierze te moje komentarze jakoś tam pod uwagę, to tym razem spokojnie niech sobie ten pominie, jakby go nie było 😉
Ale istnieje naprawdę bardzo duże prawdopodobieństwo, że czas, w którym ją czytałam, czyli ostatnie szalone dni w robocie przed jakże zasłużoną przerwą świąteczno-noworoczną, przyczynił się do tego baaaaardzo. Zatem, jeżeli ktokolwiek, w jakikolwiek sposób, kiedykolwiek bierze te moje komentarze jakoś tam pod uwagę, to tym razem spokojnie niech sobie ten pominie, jakby go nie było 😉
December 21, 2019
3.5 stars
Yani left the hustle and bustle - and the heartbreak - of London behind for his small gyro stand. He’s content with the new life he’s building, though it involves a self-imposed ban on love.
Gavin still occasionally struggles with his life-altering injuries, but he’s determined to put all of his drive into his homeless shelter. It gets lonely sometimes, but he’s too busy for a relationship.
Their paths first cross randomly. And that lock of eyes was everything. So visceral!
The two men are thrown each other’s path again after Yani agrees to cook for the shelter when Gavin’s in a tight spot. What’s supposed to be a one-time favor becomes a pretty regular thing.
Because despite both men insisting that they’re completely fine going solo, the attraction between Gavin and Yani is immediate.
And it only builds as they go from strangers to friends.
I really liked the way Yani and Gavin’s relationship slowly grows. Both men are skittish, but they take things one step at a time.
Gavin, in particular, was a gem. He was so patient with Yani, and willing to work through things at Yani’s pace. Definitely boyfriend material!
There’s an underlying grittiness to the story. Which makes complete sense - this is Garrett Leigh after all.
Both men have their struggles and their histories. They’ve got baggage, and have to put in the effort to bring their lives together.
But while I’m usually all for Leigh’s brand of angst, this time around I found myself disconnecting a few times.
I think it was mainly because I’ve been in full-on holly jolly Christmas mode, and this book is more so a classic Garrett Leigh that just so happens to be set during the holiday season. Just not necessarily what I was in the mood for.
Also, because this is a novella, I thought that the very real issues Yani and Gavin were dealing with weren’t explored the way they needed to be.
That being said, I still thoroughly enjoyed ‘Hometown Christmas’. I adored the much-deserved happy ending for Yani and Gavin!
Yani left the hustle and bustle - and the heartbreak - of London behind for his small gyro stand. He’s content with the new life he’s building, though it involves a self-imposed ban on love.
Gavin still occasionally struggles with his life-altering injuries, but he’s determined to put all of his drive into his homeless shelter. It gets lonely sometimes, but he’s too busy for a relationship.
Their paths first cross randomly. And that lock of eyes was everything. So visceral!
The two men are thrown each other’s path again after Yani agrees to cook for the shelter when Gavin’s in a tight spot. What’s supposed to be a one-time favor becomes a pretty regular thing.
Because despite both men insisting that they’re completely fine going solo, the attraction between Gavin and Yani is immediate.
And it only builds as they go from strangers to friends.
I really liked the way Yani and Gavin’s relationship slowly grows. Both men are skittish, but they take things one step at a time.
Gavin, in particular, was a gem. He was so patient with Yani, and willing to work through things at Yani’s pace. Definitely boyfriend material!
There’s an underlying grittiness to the story. Which makes complete sense - this is Garrett Leigh after all.
Both men have their struggles and their histories. They’ve got baggage, and have to put in the effort to bring their lives together.
But while I’m usually all for Leigh’s brand of angst, this time around I found myself disconnecting a few times.
I think it was mainly because I’ve been in full-on holly jolly Christmas mode, and this book is more so a classic Garrett Leigh that just so happens to be set during the holiday season. Just not necessarily what I was in the mood for.
Also, because this is a novella, I thought that the very real issues Yani and Gavin were dealing with weren’t explored the way they needed to be.
That being said, I still thoroughly enjoyed ‘Hometown Christmas’. I adored the much-deserved happy ending for Yani and Gavin!
November 3, 2023
5 stars
Another beautiful story by Garrett Leigh, another beautiful couple.
Yani and Gavin have their own issues and yet they fit perfectly into each other.
I loved the pace of this story, especially of their sexual intimacy; I loved how Gavin waited for Yani to be ready and how Yani needed for their first time to be meaningful; I loved how Gavin felt safe with Yani.
A simple story, full of love.
My review is referring to the edition of this book included in "The Christmas Collection" (release day 30 November 2023). This edition contains a bonus epilogue featuring Nat from Between Ghosts and Marc and Jamie from Soul To Keep.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Another beautiful story by Garrett Leigh, another beautiful couple.
Yani and Gavin have their own issues and yet they fit perfectly into each other.
I loved the pace of this story, especially of their sexual intimacy; I loved how Gavin waited for Yani to be ready and how Yani needed for their first time to be meaningful; I loved how Gavin felt safe with Yani.
A simple story, full of love.
My review is referring to the edition of this book included in "The Christmas Collection" (release day 30 November 2023). This edition contains a bonus epilogue featuring Nat from Between Ghosts and Marc and Jamie from Soul To Keep.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
November 25, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
I generally do not read holiday stories; it’s just not my thing, but a Garrett Leigh book is impossible to pass up, so holiday or not, I was in.
Yani and Gavin are both closed off to the possibility of a relationship for different reasons. Yani just got out of a bad breakup and his OCD wins some days and Gavin is still recovering from military injuries and his PTSD can send his mood in different directions. Right from the start, I always love the dialogue and banter Leigh puts into her characters. These are just everyday guys just trying to get by, make a living, and maybe find something better.
This is a shorter book and, while the heat and attraction are there, it takes the guys a longer time to accept their feelings. While I appreciated getting to know the backstories of both men, there wasn’t enough time for both the past and the present and I would have preferred more balance for the present relationship building.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
I generally do not read holiday stories; it’s just not my thing, but a Garrett Leigh book is impossible to pass up, so holiday or not, I was in.
Yani and Gavin are both closed off to the possibility of a relationship for different reasons. Yani just got out of a bad breakup and his OCD wins some days and Gavin is still recovering from military injuries and his PTSD can send his mood in different directions. Right from the start, I always love the dialogue and banter Leigh puts into her characters. These are just everyday guys just trying to get by, make a living, and maybe find something better.
This is a shorter book and, while the heat and attraction are there, it takes the guys a longer time to accept their feelings. While I appreciated getting to know the backstories of both men, there wasn’t enough time for both the past and the present and I would have preferred more balance for the present relationship building.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
November 25, 2019
This story started really strong for me, but for whatever reason, I started to feel like I was missing gaps in logic or thinking or feelings from one or both MC's as the story progressed. As a result, it was hard for me to get invested in their love story. It was also hard for me to believe major story elements such as the reason Yani was weary to commit to a serious relationship. Was it just me? I might go back and re-read sections later to see if I feel differently.
January 12, 2020
*ARC provided by the author *
I'm so sorry I couldn't get to this one earlier!
As usual, Garrett Leigh treats us readers with some deep, insightful character building. The progress of the relationship is delightful, honestly to die for.
I know this author is mainly known for the angsty content and the hot sex scenes (some even early enough in the story to catapult me out of my comfort zone). This book, however, was completely different from that: there was a gentler progress of the relationship, with much less angst that it could have allowed given the circumstances, and it was, dare I say it, more leaning to the romantic, heartwarming side of the scale of things.
Overall, it was, unsurprisingly coming from this author, a wonderful read.
I'm so sorry I couldn't get to this one earlier!
As usual, Garrett Leigh treats us readers with some deep, insightful character building. The progress of the relationship is delightful, honestly to die for.
I know this author is mainly known for the angsty content and the hot sex scenes (some even early enough in the story to catapult me out of my comfort zone). This book, however, was completely different from that: there was a gentler progress of the relationship, with much less angst that it could have allowed given the circumstances, and it was, dare I say it, more leaning to the romantic, heartwarming side of the scale of things.
Overall, it was, unsurprisingly coming from this author, a wonderful read.
December 4, 2020
I had a hard time connecting with these characters. Yani just kept running away and Wedge was distant. Their connection just seemed forced to me.
I’ve read three books by Garrett Leigh. I thought “What Remains” was wonderful so I know she can write books I really enjoy. This one just was ok for me.
I’ve read three books by Garrett Leigh. I thought “What Remains” was wonderful so I know she can write books I really enjoy. This one just was ok for me.
December 22, 2020
2 stars 🌟 🌟
This book took longer than it should have for me to read. I'm thinking me and this author may not mix 🤷🏽♀️.
This book took longer than it should have for me to read. I'm thinking me and this author may not mix 🤷🏽♀️.
December 28, 2019
I feel bad for saying this, but this book was a real disappointment. It dragged, and it was a chore to finish, and the most interesting parts were about the food. I'm pretty sure it's just me, though. Most other people seemed to have enjoyed it just fine.
February 1, 2021
Overall book rating: 3.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Sometimes I want MORE. This was one of those times.
I still enjoyed the read. Garrett Leigh is one of my favorite authors for
a reason.
But....
I wanted more of the between the MC's time. Just a little something more.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Sometimes I want MORE. This was one of those times.
I still enjoyed the read. Garrett Leigh is one of my favorite authors for
a reason.
But....
I wanted more of the between the MC's time. Just a little something more.
December 26, 2019
This book was the very definition of right book, right time. It was exactly the right time of year to read it (Christmas Day and Boxing Day), I was in exactly the right frame of mind (relaxed) and place (cozied up with family in my childhood home), and the subject matter was exactly the right blend of sad and sweet that catches me in the feels but doesn't overwhelm me and make me sob my heart out.
December 12, 2020
The story of Gavin and Yani is in many ways similar to the Marc and Jamie's, but they're actually just as different.
I liked the book but I didn't love it as much as I thought.
Somehow I couldn't feel the connection between the MC's and didn't believe in their love at all. Perhaps if the book was not a novella, reading about the evolution of their relationship would make their love more believable. But what's done is done.
I liked the book but I didn't love it as much as I thought.
Somehow I couldn't feel the connection between the MC's and didn't believe in their love at all. Perhaps if the book was not a novella, reading about the evolution of their relationship would make their love more believable. But what's done is done.
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