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So Over the Holidays #2
Candy Hearts
Mechanic Benji Holiday is so over Valentine’s Day and men who don’t get him. A weekend getaway with friends to escape the holiday hubbub is exactly what he needs. But William O’Dare—a stern and silent nightclub owner with “Be My Valentine” practically stamped on his forehead—throws a wrench into Benji’s plans.
William has spent years focused on his career, and it has cost him friendships and love. Inexperienced in the business of romance, he’s on the hunt for the perfect partner, and he’s armed with specific criteria to guide him. But William didn’t expect a hunky mechanic wrapped in satin and lace to show up on his doorstep.
Unable to resist their attraction, Benji and William agree to be secret fake valentines for the weekend, but secrets have a way of getting out. William gets struck by Cupid’s arrow, and as the weekend winds down, he doesn’t want fake or secret. He wants Benji to be his valentine for real and for keeps.
Candy Hearts is a male/male Valentine’s Day novella featuring a house party power outage, meddling friends and siblings, naughty lingerie and naughtier toys, homemade Valentine's Day cards, and a happily ever after.
William has spent years focused on his career, and it has cost him friendships and love. Inexperienced in the business of romance, he’s on the hunt for the perfect partner, and he’s armed with specific criteria to guide him. But William didn’t expect a hunky mechanic wrapped in satin and lace to show up on his doorstep.
Unable to resist their attraction, Benji and William agree to be secret fake valentines for the weekend, but secrets have a way of getting out. William gets struck by Cupid’s arrow, and as the weekend winds down, he doesn’t want fake or secret. He wants Benji to be his valentine for real and for keeps.
Candy Hearts is a male/male Valentine’s Day novella featuring a house party power outage, meddling friends and siblings, naughty lingerie and naughtier toys, homemade Valentine's Day cards, and a happily ever after.
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2020
71 people are currently reading
642 people want to read
About the author
Erin McLellan
15 books207 followersErin McLellan is the author of the Farm College, So Over the Holidays, and Storm Chasers series. She enjoys writing happily ever afters that are earthy, emotional, quirky, humorous, and very sexy. Originally from Oklahoma, she currently lives in Alaska and spends her time dreaming up queer contemporary romances. She is a lover of chocolate, college sports, antiquing, Dr Pepper, and binge-worthy TV shows.
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January 18, 2020On hold.
Never a good sign when a book’s been on your ‘currently reading’ shelf and you’re just not interested in going back to it.
(I’m a bit grumpy atm-nothing is doing much for me)
Never a good sign when a book’s been on your ‘currently reading’ shelf and you’re just not interested in going back to it.
(I’m a bit grumpy atm-nothing is doing much for me)
February 23, 2020
*2.5 stars*
I don't know what it is about this series, but I am not digging them, though I would think they would be right up my alley.
Who doesn't love a good opposites attract story, plus lingerie?! I SHOULD have loved this, but, alas, it was a bit slow and hard for me to get through.
I thought the fake Valentine's thing was cute, and I enjoyed the sex positive message, but I thought the romance got a bit lost with all of the side characters. It started off strong and then got muddled part way through and then petered out near the end.
Many of my friends enjoyed this so YMMV, but I'm dropping this series at this point. Lacy underthings only gets you so far.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
I don't know what it is about this series, but I am not digging them, though I would think they would be right up my alley.
Who doesn't love a good opposites attract story, plus lingerie?! I SHOULD have loved this, but, alas, it was a bit slow and hard for me to get through.
I thought the fake Valentine's thing was cute, and I enjoyed the sex positive message, but I thought the romance got a bit lost with all of the side characters. It started off strong and then got muddled part way through and then petered out near the end.
Many of my friends enjoyed this so YMMV, but I'm dropping this series at this point. Lacy underthings only gets you so far.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
February 2, 2020
That was very cute.
I liked the humour, the incredibly sexy encounters, the emotional highs and lows and the friendship bonds between a group of disparate characters who've occasionally lost their way in recent years.
The fake Valentine's angle was fun, the close proximity plotline worked well to advance the narrative and I loved the way both Benji and William got over their fears together.
It was short but still managed to feel like a complete story.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
I liked the humour, the incredibly sexy encounters, the emotional highs and lows and the friendship bonds between a group of disparate characters who've occasionally lost their way in recent years.
The fake Valentine's angle was fun, the close proximity plotline worked well to advance the narrative and I loved the way both Benji and William got over their fears together.
It was short but still managed to feel like a complete story.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
January 17, 2020
Benji is over Valentine’s Day and is content to just let it pass on by but an invite from his sister to be it with some friends may be exactly what he needs. What he doesn’t expect is William -- a silent, stern workaholic who may just be everything Benji is looking for. But, is Benji what William is looking for?
Everything about Candy Hearts was scorching hot. The chemistry between the two MCs outside and inside the bedroom was another level of steamy -- especially when the satin, lace and sexy toys got involved. This was my first book by Erin McLellan and I have to say it was a win. I really liked the friendship dynamics in the group and how the relationship developed between Benji and William -- there was a moment that things could’ve went one way and I was pleasantly surprised that it was resolved quickly.
All in all this was a perfect first book to start off the love day books I will ultimately be drowning in this year.
If you’re looking for a hot Valentine’s Day read...I recommend this one. It’s low angst, filled with two men who set the sheets aflame and a HEA that’ll leave your heart feeling content.
4 stars
♡ arc given in exchange for an honest review ♡
Everything about Candy Hearts was scorching hot. The chemistry between the two MCs outside and inside the bedroom was another level of steamy -- especially when the satin, lace and sexy toys got involved. This was my first book by Erin McLellan and I have to say it was a win. I really liked the friendship dynamics in the group and how the relationship developed between Benji and William -- there was a moment that things could’ve went one way and I was pleasantly surprised that it was resolved quickly.
All in all this was a perfect first book to start off the love day books I will ultimately be drowning in this year.
If you’re looking for a hot Valentine’s Day read...I recommend this one. It’s low angst, filled with two men who set the sheets aflame and a HEA that’ll leave your heart feeling content.
4 stars
♡ arc given in exchange for an honest review ♡
July 19, 2021
3.5 ish
cute
cute
January 17, 2020
I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK. These characters were so well developed, especially for a novella. I loved that Benji was a large, muscled man (not a twink) that secretly loved lingerie. It really added another layer of sexiness to the story. The author really went for it with the sex (Thank you, Erin!) and these guys had INSANE chemistry. Most of all, the intimacy and tenderness that they found in each other within the snark and banter was just perfect.
This definitely goes right on my re-readable shelf. HIGHLY recommended.
*Received in exchange for an honest review.
This definitely goes right on my re-readable shelf. HIGHLY recommended.
*Received in exchange for an honest review.
March 19, 2020
Back in December I was absolutely obsessed with Stocking Stuffers, the first book in this holiday romance novella series. I just assumed that the rest of the books would be Christmas themed as well and I wasn’t expecting another one until next winter. So I was super surprised when I just realized that a Valentine’s Day novella was released last month.
This story follows Benji, the brother of Sasha from the first novella, as he accidentally shows up to William’s Valentine’s Day party a day early. The power is out and they’re in the middle of nowhere, so what do they decide to do? Become each other’s fake Valentines and have a bunch of sex of course! This is a pretty quick story, but I think the chemistry and feelings between the two guys progress naturally. Like with the first in the series, the characters integrate a lot of toys into their sex lives, also Benji really enjoys wearing lingerie. I appreciate how Erin McLellan naturally incorporates elements into this series that aren’t really seen a lot in “traditional” romances.
This is just a really fun time. It’s funny, it’s romantic, it’s smutty, and there’s a great friend group. I will say that I think I preferred the first book just a tiny bit more, I think the actual romance was stronger. But this was still really enjoyable and I’m definitely looking forward to the next in the series.
This story follows Benji, the brother of Sasha from the first novella, as he accidentally shows up to William’s Valentine’s Day party a day early. The power is out and they’re in the middle of nowhere, so what do they decide to do? Become each other’s fake Valentines and have a bunch of sex of course! This is a pretty quick story, but I think the chemistry and feelings between the two guys progress naturally. Like with the first in the series, the characters integrate a lot of toys into their sex lives, also Benji really enjoys wearing lingerie. I appreciate how Erin McLellan naturally incorporates elements into this series that aren’t really seen a lot in “traditional” romances.
This is just a really fun time. It’s funny, it’s romantic, it’s smutty, and there’s a great friend group. I will say that I think I preferred the first book just a tiny bit more, I think the actual romance was stronger. But this was still really enjoyable and I’m definitely looking forward to the next in the series.
February 11, 2020
Fasten your seatbelts and let Benji’s charms pull you in. His sweet candy smell and unfiltered mouth.
A party to escape all Valentine's fuss, that's where Benji was going, he ended up in a big dark house with a sweet man.
William is, at first sight, a bit of a grumpy professor, buried in paperwork and books. Owner of more than one nightclub, he is a rich and busy man.
But when he becomes enthralled by Benji, a mechanic, and when he gets to know what Benji has under his clothes, William is very attentive and affectionate.
They agreed. They will have the best time together, they can practice on each other so both can get back into dating men, well... more like dating the right men, after this weekend.
And oh boooyyy did they have the best time! Exploring each other is mildly expressing what they did.
Besides all the sexiness, they have fun; delightful endearing fun.
Benji finally got the nerve to be himself, completely exposed and be himself, and being appreciated with what he loves and desires.
His heart does strange things when William worships him.
A delightful story about finding the love of your life, finding yourself, reconnecting with the world around you. There is a lot of delicious sexiness. I loved this story dearly.
The whole story is written with a positive vibe. The hurt was exceeded by all the endearing gestures. Both men were engaging and had characteristics that made them vulnerable and adorable.
A Valentines' must-read!
A party to escape all Valentine's fuss, that's where Benji was going, he ended up in a big dark house with a sweet man.
William is, at first sight, a bit of a grumpy professor, buried in paperwork and books. Owner of more than one nightclub, he is a rich and busy man.
But when he becomes enthralled by Benji, a mechanic, and when he gets to know what Benji has under his clothes, William is very attentive and affectionate.
They agreed. They will have the best time together, they can practice on each other so both can get back into dating men, well... more like dating the right men, after this weekend.
And oh boooyyy did they have the best time! Exploring each other is mildly expressing what they did.
Besides all the sexiness, they have fun; delightful endearing fun.
Benji finally got the nerve to be himself, completely exposed and be himself, and being appreciated with what he loves and desires.
His heart does strange things when William worships him.
A delightful story about finding the love of your life, finding yourself, reconnecting with the world around you. There is a lot of delicious sexiness. I loved this story dearly.
The whole story is written with a positive vibe. The hurt was exceeded by all the endearing gestures. Both men were engaging and had characteristics that made them vulnerable and adorable.
A Valentines' must-read!
January 29, 2020
Erin McLellan keeps delighting me with these queer holiday romance novellas. Candy Hearts is perfect for those who maybe kind of hate to love Valentine's Day but would absolutely embrace it with their own sexy "fake Valentine" like Benji and William. I loved the stuck together in a power outage situation that brought our two lovers together, as well as the found family celebration. Benji's love of lingerie is also very endearing and used to great sexy effect.
I learned a new sex move term and also there's a lot of sperm. So much.
*I received a free copy from the author for review
I learned a new sex move term and also there's a lot of sperm. So much.
*I received a free copy from the author for review
February 3, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
First off, let’s be clear. There is a whole lot of sex in this story. I’m going to go with “sex romp” to describe it. The guys spend a lot of time in bed sexing it up, including playing with toys and enjoying Benji’s sexy lingerie. So expect a lot of heat and intensity, but with a nice, playful side.
What I think makes this story work so well, however, is that there is more to it than just the heat. We have William, a man who is successful but lonely, and who is finally at the point where he wants to find love. There are some points here where William really has to reflect on the person he has become (and the friend he has been). In Benji’s case, he is a people pleaser and has spent far too long contorting himself into whatever he thinks his partners want. Part of that is hiding his interest in lingerie, but it is also bigger than that. William is the first person Benji shares his cross dressing with, and William’s complete acceptance (and downright enthusiasm) gives Benji the confidence he has been needing to be himself. It is really nice to see how Benji comes into his own as he realizes that he can be open with who he is and William eagerly accepts him. These guys are so sweet and sexy together. William is big on sweet endearments and you can just feel how they light Benji up (major praise kink here). I enjoyed them together quite a lot.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
First off, let’s be clear. There is a whole lot of sex in this story. I’m going to go with “sex romp” to describe it. The guys spend a lot of time in bed sexing it up, including playing with toys and enjoying Benji’s sexy lingerie. So expect a lot of heat and intensity, but with a nice, playful side.
What I think makes this story work so well, however, is that there is more to it than just the heat. We have William, a man who is successful but lonely, and who is finally at the point where he wants to find love. There are some points here where William really has to reflect on the person he has become (and the friend he has been). In Benji’s case, he is a people pleaser and has spent far too long contorting himself into whatever he thinks his partners want. Part of that is hiding his interest in lingerie, but it is also bigger than that. William is the first person Benji shares his cross dressing with, and William’s complete acceptance (and downright enthusiasm) gives Benji the confidence he has been needing to be himself. It is really nice to see how Benji comes into his own as he realizes that he can be open with who he is and William eagerly accepts him. These guys are so sweet and sexy together. William is big on sweet endearments and you can just feel how they light Benji up (major praise kink here). I enjoyed them together quite a lot.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 16, 2021
OMG I just loved this, and I simply adored Benji.
This story had so many things I love - age gap, grumpy/sunshine, lacy things, secret romance, and so many feels wrapped up in an intense weekend between Benji and William.
And I LOVED that Benji had a IDGAF attitude towards his wants in bed, his love for lace juxtaposed with his tough-guy, blue collar, well-built persona. I absolutely loved that - the guy just needed to work on his self esteem, but thank goodness he saw things clearly by the end! The chemistry between the two was just intense and so wonderfully steamy and fun!
I didn't read the other books in this series, but aside from a bunch of friends bombarding their house for the weekend get-together, it was pretty easy to follow along with this as just a standalone. I simply adored it.
This story had so many things I love - age gap, grumpy/sunshine, lacy things, secret romance, and so many feels wrapped up in an intense weekend between Benji and William.
And I LOVED that Benji had a IDGAF attitude towards his wants in bed, his love for lace juxtaposed with his tough-guy, blue collar, well-built persona. I absolutely loved that - the guy just needed to work on his self esteem, but thank goodness he saw things clearly by the end! The chemistry between the two was just intense and so wonderfully steamy and fun!
I didn't read the other books in this series, but aside from a bunch of friends bombarding their house for the weekend get-together, it was pretty easy to follow along with this as just a standalone. I simply adored it.
March 30, 2021
From January 2020 to March 2021 tells you something.
And I haven't finished this book. Yet.
Maybe when my mood is right, I'll be back to this.
Sorry.
And I haven't finished this book. Yet.
Maybe when my mood is right, I'll be back to this.
Sorry.
February 3, 2020
Hot guys in lacy underthings is my kryptonite, and Candy Hearts slayed me.
Benji is a buff mechanic who likes to wear delicate lingerie. William is uptight and career-focused.
These two are HOTT together once William warms up to Benji. After that, it's fire everywhere. Which is a good thing because they are stuck without power in the middle of winter. The ways they find to stay warm and cozy will make you sweat.
I also enjoyed the cast of friends (including Sasha, Benji's sister, from Stocking Stuffers). They add some extra fun to the mix.
Benji is a buff mechanic who likes to wear delicate lingerie. William is uptight and career-focused.
These two are HOTT together once William warms up to Benji. After that, it's fire everywhere. Which is a good thing because they are stuck without power in the middle of winter. The ways they find to stay warm and cozy will make you sweat.
I also enjoyed the cast of friends (including Sasha, Benji's sister, from Stocking Stuffers). They add some extra fun to the mix.
February 18, 2020
DNF 69%. I got bored. I wasn't really into the man-lingerie or armpit sex. Both William and Benji seemed like interesting characters, but the plot was getting kind of boring for me. Maybe I'll pick up on this one day, but I'm really dying to move on to more interesting books.
January 29, 2020
4 1/2 STARS! Quick and dirty V-Day fun. Lingerie, candy, toys, and stormed-in? Yes, please!
January 8, 2020
Thanks to the author and publisher for granting me a complimentary copy via A Novel Take for an honest review.
I love the concept of this series. With all the couples around, who isn't so over these holidays that make a person who's single feel inadequate?
Benji is a real mixture of contrasts. I liked that he was a big strong fully capable mechanic, but had a softer side. William, with his workaholic tendencies is also adorable in his insecurities about being in the dating world again.
I really loved them together with the connection and relationship they formed, and how they accepted each other for who they were. They were pretending with the secret fake valentine thing, but not with how they portrayed themselves. And I loved how even though things were thrown at them, there was still open communication.
I love the concept of this series. With all the couples around, who isn't so over these holidays that make a person who's single feel inadequate?
Benji is a real mixture of contrasts. I liked that he was a big strong fully capable mechanic, but had a softer side. William, with his workaholic tendencies is also adorable in his insecurities about being in the dating world again.
I really loved them together with the connection and relationship they formed, and how they accepted each other for who they were. They were pretending with the secret fake valentine thing, but not with how they portrayed themselves. And I loved how even though things were thrown at them, there was still open communication.
February 4, 2020
Loved this one! Full review to come.
I received an e-ARC of Candy Hearts by Erin McLellan in exchange for an honest review.
I read the first book in this series, Stocking Stuffers, and loved it so I was super excited for the chance to review this book. I have been in a bit of a reading slump and haven’t been able to handle more than quick novellas. This hot, sexy novella was just what I needed.
This is the story of Benji, the young mechanic with a love for lingerie, and William, the older workaholic who is finally ready for a real relationship. They meet at a Valentine’s getaway weekend Benji’s sister invited him to and sparks fly. They decide to be secret, fake valentines for the weekend so they can have some fun sexytimes and move on. The more William learns about Benji, the more he wishes they were real valentines. Benji lets William in and shows him a side of himself that he always felt like he had to hide from lovers, but he’s afraid of getting hurt again. There’s a misunderstanding. There’s a disastrous date. There’s talking and working it out and discovering real feelings.
Erin McLellan is becoming an auto-buy author for me because her books are hot, hot, hot. This series heavily features the use of sex toys, and it’s so fun and playful. I laughed out loud several times while reading this.
I give this book Five Super Steamy Stars and I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I think it’s coming this summer.
I received an e-ARC of Candy Hearts by Erin McLellan in exchange for an honest review.
I read the first book in this series, Stocking Stuffers, and loved it so I was super excited for the chance to review this book. I have been in a bit of a reading slump and haven’t been able to handle more than quick novellas. This hot, sexy novella was just what I needed.
This is the story of Benji, the young mechanic with a love for lingerie, and William, the older workaholic who is finally ready for a real relationship. They meet at a Valentine’s getaway weekend Benji’s sister invited him to and sparks fly. They decide to be secret, fake valentines for the weekend so they can have some fun sexytimes and move on. The more William learns about Benji, the more he wishes they were real valentines. Benji lets William in and shows him a side of himself that he always felt like he had to hide from lovers, but he’s afraid of getting hurt again. There’s a misunderstanding. There’s a disastrous date. There’s talking and working it out and discovering real feelings.
Erin McLellan is becoming an auto-buy author for me because her books are hot, hot, hot. This series heavily features the use of sex toys, and it’s so fun and playful. I laughed out loud several times while reading this.
I give this book Five Super Steamy Stars and I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I think it’s coming this summer.
August 9, 2021
CANDY HEARTS was a really cute story about two people who have struggled with the relationships in their life, both friends and lovers. Enjoying a weekend as secret Valentines is what each of them are looking for but neither expects it to become more. Will and Benji were truly adorable together -- these are just the softest boys ever! They care so much about each other and they're so supportive of what the other wants. Benji in particular is not used to being accepted for himself; he's this contradiction of being traditionally masculine as a mechanic but he also loves to wear sexy and lacy lingerie. The moments, big and small, where Will accepts Benji for exactly who he is were really sweet.
I also liked how much CANDY HEARTS demonstrates the importance of friendship and maintaining those connections in your life. This friend group seems like a lot of fun, if a bit wild and crazy.
ARC provided by A Novel Take for honest review
I also liked how much CANDY HEARTS demonstrates the importance of friendship and maintaining those connections in your life. This friend group seems like a lot of fun, if a bit wild and crazy.
ARC provided by A Novel Take for honest review
February 3, 2020
This was a HOT quick read that I devoured in one afternoon! I Loved Benji and his love for lacy, silky, sexy undergarments as well as sex toys, and he was the perfect opposite of William which made things so interesting. William is a total workaholic and he's finally realized that he's at a place in his life where he feels comfortable enough to step back a bit from his business and start dating, what he doesn't expect is for the perfect person to knock on his door during a power outage.
Read my full review along with an exclusive Author Q&A, Excerpt, and GIVEAWAY HERE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
Read my full review along with an exclusive Author Q&A, Excerpt, and GIVEAWAY HERE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can see this and other Reviews I have written along with various cover reveals, excerpts, and giveaways here Nadine's Obsessed with Books
February 4, 2020
I've had a MONDAY so I'm gonna tell you guys about this book tomorrow but go #oneclick now if you like ;)
Clearly, I am enthusiastic about this story LOL It’s not the next Great American Novel but it’s not supposed to be. It is exactly what it is supposed to be. A little escape for a reader. It’s not unrealistic but it is definitely fiction LOL I loved the cuteness that surrounded the story at all time. It is 100% sexually driven and *fans self* I enjoyed that very very much! And believe it or not, it had some depth! It’s a shortish story so I tend to not expect much in that department but it was there! Well done!
I think this is a great quickie read that’ sexually charged with a whole lot of heart!
Clearly, I am enthusiastic about this story LOL It’s not the next Great American Novel but it’s not supposed to be. It is exactly what it is supposed to be. A little escape for a reader. It’s not unrealistic but it is definitely fiction LOL I loved the cuteness that surrounded the story at all time. It is 100% sexually driven and *fans self* I enjoyed that very very much! And believe it or not, it had some depth! It’s a shortish story so I tend to not expect much in that department but it was there! Well done!
I think this is a great quickie read that’ sexually charged with a whole lot of heart!
June 26, 2020
I loved this story! First and foremost: manties! And then, wham! The story was even better than the manties. I loved Benji, the big good-looking auto mechanic with the penchant so feminine undergarments, and William, the successful business man with his list of qualifications for the perfect man, a list that turns out to be a carbon copy of his own assets.
But opposites attract, and a little boost from the Valentine spirit made this story just great. If I had any complaint at all, it would be the second date issue, which fell flat in more ways than just for William and Benji, and the big reveal at the auction. It just didn't feel in character for Benji. But that may be me. Just sayin'. Overall, though, I really enjoyed the story, the characters, and the fun weekend they shared.
But opposites attract, and a little boost from the Valentine spirit made this story just great. If I had any complaint at all, it would be the second date issue, which fell flat in more ways than just for William and Benji, and the big reveal at the auction. It just didn't feel in character for Benji. But that may be me. Just sayin'. Overall, though, I really enjoyed the story, the characters, and the fun weekend they shared.
June 23, 2020
Sexy and good. My only concern is I don't have the warmest feelings towards the heroine of the first book after reading it? It's strange how reading order can really matter sometimes. (My issue is less the very mean thing she said to the person whose home she was in, and more the setting her brother up. That's rude, don't do that.) Will definitely pick up the other two books at some point, though.
February 10, 2020
Very fun, with some great sexy times and also a little bit of heartwarming tenderness. I'll be putting the first of the series onto my TBR and looking forward to book three this summer!
March 14, 2020
This was cute and sweet with pretty much no angst. I liked the two MCs quite a bit and the secondary characters were interesting as well.
February 23, 2021
3.5 stars.
February 8, 2020
*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*
Loved this one so much! It's freaking adorable and will just make you happy. The way this romance developed over basically a weekend was actually believable and works. It doesn't feel rushed or shallow. There's still depth in the connection forged. The circle of friends was fun. I normally am not a "Grand Gesture" person, but I think this one is respectable because it's kind of more about self celebration and Benji owning and being okay with who he is and what he likes. Loved it.
Loved this one so much! It's freaking adorable and will just make you happy. The way this romance developed over basically a weekend was actually believable and works. It doesn't feel rushed or shallow. There's still depth in the connection forged. The circle of friends was fun. I normally am not a "Grand Gesture" person, but I think this one is respectable because it's kind of more about self celebration and Benji owning and being okay with who he is and what he likes. Loved it.
April 3, 2021
meu favorito da série até agora. fiquei postergando o fim - realmente não queria me despedir desse casal fofo.
April 22, 2020
2nd read - April 2020
I am doing a lot of rereading at the moment, seeking out soft and comfy places to spend time. I wasn't sure how this would hold up a second time but it surprised me and I'd probably bump my rating to 5 stars now. It showcases stellar communication and consent between the MCs in a caring, natural way, and walks a perfect line between soft and silly and mad sexy. If you want something quick, sweet and dirty, this is a lovely retreat.
1st read - February 2020
An extremely sweet treat of a novella, wherein an overworked buttoned-up business man makes a ‘fake Valentines deal’ with a lingerie wearing mechanic. It’s got realistic low-burn angst; the sex is hot as hell and does stellar character work in the story; and the supporting cast of friends is really well played. It’s on the erotic end of the spectrum, and deliciously tropey in a way that actually made me laugh out loud several times.
It’s one of a series of ‘holiday-themed’ novellas from Erin McLellan, and full of hat-tips to previous and future pairings, but worked fine for me as a stand-alone.
I am doing a lot of rereading at the moment, seeking out soft and comfy places to spend time. I wasn't sure how this would hold up a second time but it surprised me and I'd probably bump my rating to 5 stars now. It showcases stellar communication and consent between the MCs in a caring, natural way, and walks a perfect line between soft and silly and mad sexy. If you want something quick, sweet and dirty, this is a lovely retreat.
1st read - February 2020
An extremely sweet treat of a novella, wherein an overworked buttoned-up business man makes a ‘fake Valentines deal’ with a lingerie wearing mechanic. It’s got realistic low-burn angst; the sex is hot as hell and does stellar character work in the story; and the supporting cast of friends is really well played. It’s on the erotic end of the spectrum, and deliciously tropey in a way that actually made me laugh out loud several times.
It’s one of a series of ‘holiday-themed’ novellas from Erin McLellan, and full of hat-tips to previous and future pairings, but worked fine for me as a stand-alone.
January 23, 2020
Full disclosure time…I signed up to read this book because I wanted a light, fluffy, sexy read after reading something heavy. I’ve never read anything by this author, so I went in a bit blind but figured I was safe with a novella. I didn’t read book one for a couple of reasons: 1) I only read MF books from trusted authors and 2) I’ve had bad luck with stories involving characters who sell sex toys. After reading this book, I’m considering going back to read it as well as the next book when it comes out.
I can’t remember the last time I gave a novella 5 stars…I just can’t justify it because the story feels incomplete or the characters aren’t well developed, or something just feels missing.
I think the single most surprising thing about this book is the complexity of the main characters. Benji seemed OTT at first but it’s more that he’s been stifled, and his previous love interests have tried to change him so he’s showing William who he is without apology. He just wants to be accepted as is not fit into a mold by someone else and he is quite an enigma. William first appears as a gruff, grumpy, unapproachable bear of a man who has no tolerance for silly boys like Benji. However, he is quite enamored with him from the start and he’s hiding his self-inflicted pain well. His suffering is what’s making him appear grumpy, but he really just wants to be loved and live again.
There are a couple of heavy-ish scenes as Benji and William work through their personal issues but overall the book is filled with entertaining banter, charming romance, smoldering sexy times, big gestures and great friendship.
And I only highlighted one thing…but it was one of the most important things I’ve ever highlighted as it solidified Ms. McLellan and me as soulmates. Here it is…
Maybe this was like the bridge of a song, short and special. The best part but over too fast.
For now, this author is on my watch list but understand this is an absolute must-read…and not just for Valentine’s Day.
****
Authors: check out our new promo company http://triplethreatpromotion.com/
I can’t remember the last time I gave a novella 5 stars…I just can’t justify it because the story feels incomplete or the characters aren’t well developed, or something just feels missing.
I think the single most surprising thing about this book is the complexity of the main characters. Benji seemed OTT at first but it’s more that he’s been stifled, and his previous love interests have tried to change him so he’s showing William who he is without apology. He just wants to be accepted as is not fit into a mold by someone else and he is quite an enigma. William first appears as a gruff, grumpy, unapproachable bear of a man who has no tolerance for silly boys like Benji. However, he is quite enamored with him from the start and he’s hiding his self-inflicted pain well. His suffering is what’s making him appear grumpy, but he really just wants to be loved and live again.
There are a couple of heavy-ish scenes as Benji and William work through their personal issues but overall the book is filled with entertaining banter, charming romance, smoldering sexy times, big gestures and great friendship.
And I only highlighted one thing…but it was one of the most important things I’ve ever highlighted as it solidified Ms. McLellan and me as soulmates. Here it is…
Maybe this was like the bridge of a song, short and special. The best part but over too fast.
For now, this author is on my watch list but understand this is an absolute must-read…and not just for Valentine’s Day.
****
Authors: check out our new promo company http://triplethreatpromotion.com/
February 1, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second book in the series, and whilst you could read it as a standalone, Stocking Stuffers is a lot of fun and introduces us to Benji's sister Sasha. We get to meet her and Perry again here, which is fun.
There is a lot of fun, sex and some home truths being dished out in the anti-Valentine's party weekend. William has finally stood back from his workaholic life to host the weekend with his dearest friends, and this time, Sasha's brother Benji comes too. In fact thanks to some meddling, he turns up early and the men get to know each other a little before the rest of the gang arrive.
Benji is a successful mechanic, who hides a secret love for silky, soft and supportive lingerie. But as he gets to know William, he realises that he can chance revealing this kink, and even better, William loves it - it is so lovely to watch these two men fight their normal and take a risk on opening up and, even if only for a brief moment, giving into their desires. Whilst they are very different, they have been living half a life, and trying to fit in. Finally this weekend gives them a chance to be free. It is a joy to read and along with their friends want the very best for them.
Another lovely read in the series, thank you Erin McLellan - I look forward to what is coming next!
This is the second book in the series, and whilst you could read it as a standalone, Stocking Stuffers is a lot of fun and introduces us to Benji's sister Sasha. We get to meet her and Perry again here, which is fun.
There is a lot of fun, sex and some home truths being dished out in the anti-Valentine's party weekend. William has finally stood back from his workaholic life to host the weekend with his dearest friends, and this time, Sasha's brother Benji comes too. In fact thanks to some meddling, he turns up early and the men get to know each other a little before the rest of the gang arrive.
Benji is a successful mechanic, who hides a secret love for silky, soft and supportive lingerie. But as he gets to know William, he realises that he can chance revealing this kink, and even better, William loves it - it is so lovely to watch these two men fight their normal and take a risk on opening up and, even if only for a brief moment, giving into their desires. Whilst they are very different, they have been living half a life, and trying to fit in. Finally this weekend gives them a chance to be free. It is a joy to read and along with their friends want the very best for them.
Another lovely read in the series, thank you Erin McLellan - I look forward to what is coming next!
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