Gifts for the Season

by R.J. Scott, Annabeth Albert, Joanna Chambers

A charity anthology from your favorite MM romance authors featuring fifteen brand new stories.

RJ Scott - Single Dad Christmas
It would be a Christmas miracle if he loved me back.

Annabeth Albert - Must Be Santa
Tis the season for Operation Christmas Papa!

Joanna Chambers - The First Snow of Winter
Christmas Eve, 1814: a maimed war hero and the childhood friend he almost kissed five years earlier are trapped together by the first snow of winter.

Eli Easton - Twelve Days of UPS
What happens when your Secret Santa is less intriguing than the delivery man who brings the gifts?

Suki Fleet - Sometimes, Always
When Echo’s Christmas Eve surprise for Peri goes a little sideways, it turns into a night they’ll both remember for the best reasons, for always.

Lane Hayes - Out For The Holidays
Good Things Happen When You’re Out for the Holidays!

Annabelle Jacobs - Driving Home For Christmas
A road trip, snowstorm, and only one big bed at the Inn…

Alex Jane - Homestead for the Holidays
Alone in a cabin in snowy Nebraska for Christmas

Amber Kell - A Santa for Trin
Everyone needs a bit of Christmas magic.

Garrett Leigh - No Place Like Home
As long as they’re together, love always wins

V.L. Locey - Dressed In Holiday Style
Can the spirit of Christmas save this budding love affair?

Clare London - Five Gold Blings
Where Christmas sparkle leads two lonely hearts.

Posy Roberts - Sojourn with You
This year, a place to stay is the best Christmas gift Sawyer could ask for.

Felice Stevens - The Gift of Forever
What do you get the man who has everything?

AE Via - An Unworthy Gift
What do the lonely do at Christmas?


Word Count: 157,000

Genres: M M Romance, Anthologies, Holiday, Romance, Christmas, Contemporary, LGBT

592 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2020

About the author

RJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk

Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release

Reviews

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whew! I finished. This truly was jam-packed full of holiday goodness.
My advice would be to seek out the authors you know and start there. When you have time or need a dose of Christmas, check out some of the other short stories.
Most I liked, a few missed the mark, but I found a handful absolutely delightful.
Okay, back to my ramblings while reading this massive set...

I LOVE many of these authors.
I LOVE many of the books these short stories stem from.
I LOVE the charity benefiting from this set.

And yet...it almost feels like 'too much'.
And doesn't have the same impact if you've not read the originating book/series.
And...I don't know how to feel about reading my first COVID romance. I'm not sure I'm ready for that...yet.

There are a total of FIFTEEN short stories included.
Which ends up running around 33 cents a story. WOW...talk about a stellar deal.
Even if you only read five of them, it's a buck a book.
Soo, why not give it a go...try some new voices and meet some new families or visit some faves.
Decide which to keep and move on knowing you helped a deserving cause.
That's my take anyway...and here are my snippets of each gift.

RJ Scott - Single Dad Christmas 🌟🌟🌟
I haven't read this series before but this felt complete rather than a voyeuristic snippet. Austin and Paul. The classic 'fall in love with the manny'. But it was adorable and made me smile. I loved the kiddos too!

Annabeth Albert - Must Be Santa 🌟🌟🌟
I hadn't met Teddy and Nick before (from Better Not Pout) but I believe I want to. This couple wants to share their love and expand their family. It was tender and full of hope. And I want more of them! I can’t wait to read more from Albert!

Joanna Chambers - The First Snow of Winter 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Oh! This was just lovely. A historical treat that left me craving more. Childhood acquaintances are reunited. Both have changed. Both run hot for the other. Could be an introduction to a full book...or at least I hope so! A gentle and tender beginning that historical fans are sure to enjoy.

Eli Easton - Twelve Days of UPS 🌟🌟🌟
I gravitate towards Easton's stories because they always seem to work for me. And this will probably shed its needles with time...but masks, social distancing, and COVID stress take up enough of my real life...I just wasn't ready to take it to my books. Cute couple with an adorable story though.

Suki Fleet - Sometimes, Always 🌟🌟🌟
Ohhh...ummm...I am hot and cold. I absolutely ADORE Peri and Echo and couldn't wait for this one...and it was delightful and finespun and so them. But dude, this one scene had me *bug eyes* all sorts of confuzzled. *whispers* Is that really a thing? I suppose it's tame compared to golden showers but...I was just so surprised.

Lane Hayes - Out For The Holidays 🌟🌟🌟
I haven't read this series and perhaps I will now...I wasn't exactly sold but wasn't deterred either. A short and sweet story about Derek and Evan making their dreams come true. Fans of the Out in College series will definitely want to check this out!

Annabelle Jacobs - Driving Home For Christmas 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Loved it, loved it, loved it. This particular story was by far my favorite of the collection. Besties to boyfriends done exceptionally well. A fresh and complete story that left me smiling from ear to ear. If you've never read Jacbos before, this would be the perfect place to get a taste of her style. Beautiful story!

Alex Jane - Homestead for the Holidays 🌟🌟🌟
This is an addition to the Homestead Universe. Which again, I'm unfamiliar with but I didn't feel quite so lost with this one. Besties to boyfriends always make me smile...especially around the holidays. Jace and CJ were adorable and brought a new-to-me author to my kindle. Yay!

Amber Kell - A Santa for Trin 🌟🌟🌟
If I had read the Moon Pack series, I think I would have enjoyed this substantially more. This shifter world didn't completely 'wow' me but it did pique up my curiosity. Dare and his mate, Steven (werewolf and tiger) decide to bring a bit of human childhood magic to their pack. The Alpha's son, Trin wants to meet Santa. As it turns out, Santa doesn't only visit Trin. All in all, it was pretty cute.

Garrett Leigh - No Place Like Home 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Pete and Ash. If you know them, that's all you need to know. If you don't...start with their magnificent book Slide. THEN come back to this goodie. If you aren't familiar, you won't understand. But I was thrilled!!

V.L. Locey - Dressed In Holiday Style 🌟🌟
Despite this being a complete short story, it was one of my least favorites from the group. I felt like I should have enjoyed it more but I couldn't quite click with the writing. There wasn't anything, in particular, that was off-putting but more of a me-not-you situation. An enemies to lovers short story that might work better for you.

Clare London - Five Gold Blings 🌟🌟🌟🌟
An amusing short story that made me smile and wish for more. It was fresh and whole and I really enjoyed it. A delivery guy and a vlogger connect and demonstrate the joy of bringing others joy. London doesn't always work for me but this was a pleasant win.

Posy Roberts - Sojourn with You 🌟🌟🌟
I'm still pondering this one. I thought for sure it would snag me and it barely hooked. I liked Sawyer and Gregg enough but I wanted...more. Maybe it was the HFN that left me only half full. I haven't read the Nutgrove series and perhaps that's what was missing? Roberts delivers a tentative age-gap romance with an adorable doggo that will hopefully dazzle you!

Felice Stevens - The Gift of Forever 🌟🌟🌟
This is another addition to an established couple or book. Even though I didn't know them, I DID enjoy them and their holiday celebrations. Clearly, an opposite attract pair and the family appearances were delightful. I was rather disappointed with the abrupt ending though...I needed that final missing scene! Another book added to my ever-growing tbr list!


AE Via - An Unworthy Gift 🌟🌟🌟
This was...different. A new-to-me author with an enticing voice. A bit of sparkle brings two men together. Not a case of insta-love but more like whiplash love. And yet, I was rooting for Spencer and Cole...so I guess the author was successful. Ha!

This book is for: If you enjoy anthologies and love Christmas stories, this mighty collection includes a little bit of everything and supports a marvelous cause…and is sure to have something to tickle your fancy. Why not give it a chance? After all, it IS brimming with sweet and sexy stories!!

Book UNfunk

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an absolute delight this anthology is

It's rare to get an anthology or collection where you're going to love all the stories but this one just did that.

There wasn't one I didn't enjoy, even if some I hadn't read the series they were linked to (like Amber Kell, Suki Fleet, or Alex Jane's) meant I was missing a bit of additional info.

Posy Roberts' is the only one which isn't a complete tale, instead it acts as an intro for a series from her.

Quite a few of the authors went for wee peeks into the lives of some of their previous characters like Annabeth Albert, Felice Stevens, Lane Hayes, and Garrett Leigh.

And some wrote completely new short snippets of love which were fully wrapped up like the most perfect of Christmas presents like Annabelle Jacobs, V.L. Locey and RJ Scott.

I fell in love totally with the guys in Clare London's offering, which was just wonderfully sweet with a delivery driver finding happiness at the end of a fire escape.

And a similar 'delivery man falls in love with the parcel recipient' theme was also chosen by Eli Easton for her current contemporary romance.

Joanna Chambers provides the only historical entry, a truly wonderful encounter between a maimed cavalry officer and the slightly younger son of his mother's best friend set shortly after final battle in the Peninsula War.

And A.E. Via gave me two lonely hearts making a perfect connection.

If you've not bought this collection yet, I would highly recommend it.

Not only do you get 15 beautifully written festive season romances, but every penny goes towards a most worthy cause, raising money for The Trevor Project.

Bravo to RJ Scott for organising the anthology and a massive thanks to all the authors who offered up these delightful examples of love in a multitude of ways.

#ARC kindly received from the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.

[Meags · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was pretty stoked when I saw the names involved in this holiday themed, M/M romance anthology. But as it turns out, 9 of the 15 stories within are shorts in already well established series.

Now, if you know me, you’ll know I’m like this crazy, anal, OCD book lady, who doesn’t like to read stories out of order—at least if it can be helped! Subsequently, I only read 6 stories in this anthology, but I’m hoping to fill in some gaps later, should I ever get around to tackling some of these connected series somewhere down the reading road.

Below, I’ll rate and (briefly) review the stories I did read in the order I read them (not in the order they appeared in the anthology).

Overall, I liked what I read.

**********************************

12 Days of UPS by Eli Easton

3.5 Stars

In the midst of a Covid safe Christmas, Paul starts getting anonymous gifts in the mail that suggest he has a secret admirer. Stumped to who it may be, Paul wracks his brain trying to solve the Christmas mystery, all while falling harder into his new crush on the gorgeous and caring UPS delivery guy.

Sweet, charming, and with a little bit of mystery to keep things interesting, this Easton short put a Christmassy smile on my face.


The First Snow of Winter by Joanna Chambers

4 Stars

Set in 1814 England, this heartwarming short story follows war veteran and amputee Sam, as he is reunited at Christmas with a childhood friend and once-potential love interest, Jasper.

This one was beautiful in terms of atmosphere and romance. My heart went out to Sam and his feelings of shame and unworthiness, and I adored how Jasper lit him up simply by being.

These two made a very lovely couple—I would have loved to read a full novel about them, if I’m being honest (and greedy).


Driving Home for Christmas by Annabelle Jacobs

3.5 Stars

Two long-time friends, Jared and Tom, who have been on the outs for the past 4 months, find themselves driving home together for Christmas.

Things are awkward and tense on the trip home, but when a snowstorm sees them bunkering down at a hotel for the night, Jared and Tom each find the courage to acknowledge what went wrong between them and how they really feel about each other, leading to a sweet and potentially life-changing night together.

This was decent for such a short story. I felt for each of the guys and their hurt and frustration of the fallout they’d suffered through (unnecessarily, as it were), but I’m very glad for the revived communication and the fact this story had two of my favourite tropes: friends to lovers and the whole we must share a room because we are stranded due to an unforeseen storm thing.


Dressed in Holiday Style by V.L. Locey

2 Stars

This one was all over the place for me—sort of frantic in the telling and trying too hard to be humorous, when instead it came across as fairly obnoxious and annoying.

Later, in this already short piece, it’s explained that the MC has some form of bipolar disorder, and although I love the mental health rep—I really do—the whole thing didn’t play out clearly and concisely. It was sort of like because the character was bipolar the story was too, which may have been purposeful, but I don’t think it worked very well... at least for me.


Five Gold Blings by Clare London

3 Stars

Christmas grump Gray has a change of heart when he meets bright and talented vlogger Alec on his delivery run in the days leading up to Christmas.

The fashion vlogger theme was beyond my interest, TBH, but I liked the idea of these two very lonely guys finding each other and loving effortlessly during the holiday season. They were sweet and affectionate together, and I appreciated that their story was one of hope and bright promises for their future.


An Unworthy Gift by A.E. Via

4.5 Stars

An older student with a passion for writing, Spencer struggles to make ends meet during the holiday season that breaks his heart with thoughts of everything he no longer has. He’s far from wealthy, and also has his fair share of bad experiences with rich and entitled men, but when Spencer meets sweet and unassuming billionaire Cole Burbank, Spencer has to overcome some deep-seated issues to realise that sometimes the right person will love you unconditionally, regardless of their status or means.

Although the first story chronologically in the anthology, this was the last one I read. Interestingly, it was also my absolute favourite of the stories I experienced—and I say interestingly because A.E. Via is the author I have zero past experience with before now. She impressed me with the easy and engaging quality of her writing, and her well-crafted characters and rich setting. Not to mention that her characters had AMAZING chemistry and their story was romantic and sexy as all get-out!

I kind of adored this one, and although I was sad when it was over, I was also excited, because now I have a whole new author to explore!

[Leslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don’t want to swoop in here all Grinch like. Especially because the proceeds of this go towards a really deserving charity. And also because they are Christmas stories. Notoriously known for being sugar cookie cute. But I also want to be honest. So I’ll settle for three stars because there were a few standouts. But I didn’t enjoy some of the novellas, skipped quite a few that had to do with established couples I hadn’t read about and found myself downright disappointed by some. I’m not knocking stars off for the ones I skipped.

I’m sorry. Don’t hate me. I love Christmas books and have been known to read them year round. Heck, I even have a bookshelf called, “All I Want For Christmas is You.” But I felt so meh about so much of this collection.

I won’t spread my negativity any further and will only list the ones I liked.

✅ Joanna Chambers gave us a sweet Christmas treat. I only wished it was longer as the end felt rushed.

✅ Annabeth Albert, who I’ve struggled with in recent books, reunited us with her men from, “Better Not Pout.” A little sappy? Yes. But I loved seeing these two a few years down the line.

✅ Annabelle Jacobs had a lovely second chances, friends to lovers, snowed in tale. I think I have tried one of hers in the past and didn’t finish it. I may have to try her again.

[Renée · Rating 2 out of 5]

I went to the first two authors' stories that I know would be winners, and they just weren't. Joanna Chambers's story was fine, but meh, and Suki Fleet's story was totally off-putting. I had no idea what even happened in that story. I'll leave it alone from here.

['Nathan Burgoine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Reading this as part of my Short Stories 366 project; individual reviews of some of the stories will appear under this tag. I'm struggling with this collection as a whole, with some exceptions that will appear under that tag up there, but I'll collect my thoughts into something here when I'm done.

Okay, some thoughts.

There are two things I think went a bit wrong with this collection. The first is that it relied, heavily, on readers coming into it as already having read the backlist of most of the contributing authors. Many of the contributions—it felt like half or more—were revisits with characters from previously released novels, and many of those revisits didn't really read like stories so much as scenes. There wasn't enough there to introduce characters to readers who didn't already know them, and so the reader had no buy-in to the stakes (if there were any).

This isn't to say that sort of thing can't be done well. The Annabeth Albert story, which revisited Better Not Pout, did so by making the story be about the fellas from her novella hosting two foster kids, and that particular journey from start to finish, and included enough characterization of the leads that I think people who hadn't read the novella would also be up to speed on them.

The other thing that went wrong was a bit more personal for me as a queer guy reading characters that were supposed to be like me, but so very often didn't feel anything of the sort. One story is set in an exclusive gentleman's club that catered to married-but-closeted senators and judges, who are exactly the sort of people who use their power to make life miserable for queer people, and so watching one character work there and another get a membership there and neither of them really struggle with that much was off-putting. Another story had two very, very touchy-feely queer men and they were discussing potential trips to Sri Lanka or Iran—two places where being queer is illegal (and, in Iran, punishable by execution). They didn't so much as blink or consider what a trip there might be from a safety point of view. There were characters who felt like outright stereotypical caricatures, some stories where losing anal virginity was held up as a kind of "true offer of love" (can we just drop that whole thing, please? It doesn't fly for women and it shouldn't fly for queer men), and more than one story with the "But they're your family (and therefore important)!" thread in the face of disowning (I've talked about that one many times before.). And so on.

I'm glad this was a charity anthology, and I'm happy to have supported the Trevor Project with my purchase, but as an anthology, I don't think I can recommend it beyond the stories that will pop up via the tag above there, which is to say the four stories that I enjoyed in the collection: Annabeth Albert, Eli Easton, Annabelle Jacobs, and Alex Jane. For them, I'm calling this "It was ok."

[Katharina · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little word of warning that I wouldn't have minded myself: more than a third of these stories are little add-ons, snippets from already established MCs from other full-scale novels. This includes the stories by Lane Hayes, Annabeth Albert, Suki Fleet, Garrett Leigh, Felice Stevens and Amber Kell. Most of these stories I will not rate because I don't know the backstories and previous books.

But people, this annoys me. I actually bought this compilation because I was looking forward to these authors' stories. A couple of other stories are set in an already established universe, but they can be easily read without further knowledge - and that's just fine. That's brilliant actually - if you like what you read you can check out those other books, but you don't have to. Please issue a warning for the stories that will not make sense to readers unless they have read the full-scale novels these stories rely on. I feel a little cheated here!

***

I made it through (yay!!) (at least those stories I can actually review, see above) and I have to say that the quality in these stories was very fluctuating. There were a couple of real gems in there and a couple of stories I would have dnf'd if they weren't so short. So the three stars overall rating really does some stories not enough credit - and oversells a few others quite significantly.


4 stars:

Eli Easton: Twelve Days of UPS
- Nice, sweet little holiday story with a different take of the Twelve Days of Christmas trope. Also, the first story in which COVID played a role (including face masks, social distancing etc.). Kudos for that!

Annabeth Albert: Must be Santa
- A little extra snippet for Better Not Pout. I loved meeting Teddy and Nick again and their holiday story was heartwarming and full of hope. If I had one little niggle it'd be that I found the explicit sex scene to be completely unnecessary and countering the general atmosphere. I love good sex in books, but in this case, I'd've preferred it be not spelled out, I think.

Joanna Chambers: The first snow of winter
- It's always remarkable to me how much depth characters in short stories can have if they are written by a skilful writer. This is definitely an example of that.

Annabelle Jacobs: Driving Home for Christmas
- Cute, little story about two best friends who have fallen out, but are now in forced proximity during their car ride to their respective families. Fun to read, well-paced, and generally well written.

Alex Jane: Homestead for the Holidays
- Oooh, this was my favourite so far, I think, together with Joanna Chambers First Snow of Winter. This was a perfect, best friends-to-lovers, feel-good story with all the trimmings. Loved it! (The only little niggle here: there were a couple of editing errors - doubled words, punctuations at the wrong place, that kind of thing. Still a great read, though!)


3 stars:

Posy Roberts: Sojourn for Christmas
- Actually a 4 star read for me, great characters, nice writing, lovely atmosphere. Unfortunately, it felt incomplete - mostly because it was. This was a little set-up story for novellas/novels yet to come. Now, I'd love to read more about these characters, don't get me wrong (and I'm already signing up for these future installments). But I did anticipate to read something that would feel at least somewhat finished. This story stopped at the equivalent of Chapter 3 in a 12-Chapter book.

Clare London: Five Gold Blings
- More of a 2.5 star-read, but pretty original in content which ups the rating. Nevertheless, I found the story to be boring and forgettable. Mostly, because I felt decidedly neutral about the characters - meaning while I didn't hate them, I felt no connection to them whatsoever. Did they get their HEA? Maybe, but I really don't care.

V.L. Locey: Dressed in Holiday Style
- Again more of a 2.5 star-read, actually, mostly because the characters' speech was so flowery and over-the-top, it felt completely artificial to me. But there were a couple of funny scenes in this, so I'll round up just for that.


2 stars:

R. J. Scott: Single Dad Christmas
- This fell pretty flat for me. There was nothing interesting about this story or about the characters. I didn't like any of them and I didn't particularly like the kids either (at least not Anna), sorry.

A.E. Via: An Unworthy Gift
- This was mostly okay-ish, if a little boring. And fast. Boy, did these guys lay on the speed pedal. There was little depth to the characters who were mainly described as either overwhelmingly beautiful (Spencer) or overwhelmingly rich (Cole). The sex scene did not work at all for me. I think, I found little chemistry between the characters and it became really obvious when things got intimate. Nope, not for me.

[Lelyana's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

You need to read the series of some novellas first before jumping in this book.
This is actually an omnibus of holiday stories from the stories before these. Some of it.

Like Torre and Frisco's Christmas from Felice Stevens, you need to read their book Never Say Never before reading The Gift of Forever. Great addition for Torre and Frisco HEA!
I really liked their additional epilogue and HEA in this story!

You need to read Better Not Pout before reading Must be Santa from Annabeth Albert. The kids though, adorable! Good thing I was already read Better Not Pout.

AE Via's An Unworthy Gift can be read as a stand alone, but a little cringe-y reading about the gentlemen's club in a modern world (though it's fine with me in the historical romances). Love at first sight and the impulsive decision from both, not my cuppa.

Twelve Days of UPS from Eli Easton reminds me of Jay Northcote's First Class Package, written in the age of covid 2020, nice addition to memorized this pandemic.

Joanna Chambers delivered a cute story about two old friends who's never saw each other for five years after their kisses, a second chance of love in the 1814. HFN, but you know what happened during that time.

The short story about a singe dad and his manny from RJ Scott made me wanted to read the whole series (don't yell at me, okay, I have tons of TBR read!)

Clare London's story about a vlogger, was just okay, I think :)


Full review soon!

[Trio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just in time for the Holidays! My buds over at Kimmers Erotic Book Banter divvied this one up, and you can find their reviews for the rest of the stories on the blog.

Here's my review for Driving Home For Christmas by Annabelle Jacobs

Annabelle Jacobs hits all the right notes for a light and sexy holiday romance with Driving Home For Christmas.

Besties for over twenty years, nothing strains a friendship more than that drunken grope up against a wall! Jared finally gets his nerve up to kiss Tom only to have it backfire in the worst way possible. Tom freaks out. Not only has he never kissed a man before, but more than that, he’s kissing Jared!

After four months of radio silence these two finally let down their walls, open their hearts, and figure out it only takes a bit of communication to set them on the right track.

There's a variety of stories to suit everyone, so get into the holiday mood with this fun anthology!

[Achim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some were fine, some would have been fine if I read the series they are based upon first, some just followed one of the usual Holiday plots and others ... it's an anthology and I didn't expect to like all of them but it was only one I didn't finish though there were two others I had to push myself through.

So there are 2 I like to point out. The first is the one by Alex Jane about 2 college roommates who need a little christmas miracle to confess their love - nothing new but with the right kind of Holiday spirit to make me smile a little. The other is Eli Easton's story because it's my first ever Covid-19 romance and I'm still not sure if that's not too early for me.

[Suki Fleet]

Release Day! So honoured to be part of this anthology <3 All proceeds are being donated to the Trevor Project.

My story offering is 'Sometimes, Always' --a sweet and angst-free Christmas short about Echo and Peri from 'Sometimes There's Stars' (if you've read that story, this one takes place after the end, six months into the future).

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall average 3.5 stars rounded up to 4...

When I saw this book my first thought was “oh it’s an anthology” an for whatever reason they’re not really my thing but then I saw RJ Scott’s name and…hey, this is author’s essentially an auto buy for me so I needed to look further and what I discovered was that this book is stuffed with several authors that are a guaranteed good read. Add to this the fact that proceeds for this anthology are being donated to ‘The Trevor Project’ and I decided that this was definitely worth investigating and I was all in.
For those who may be wondering stories appear here in the same order as they appear in the anthology…

An Unworthy Gift by AE Via (4 stars)
The holidays are no time for anyone to be alone and yet so often people are. An unworthy gift if the tale of two men from different walks of life who each find themselves alone at the most wonderful time of the year.

‘An Unworthy Gift’ was a wonderful start to these stories. I loved both Cole and Spencer and while their story was shorter than I would have liked for me it was filled with the magic of love and the holiday season. Definitely a sweet, enjoyable holiday read worth enjoying.

Out for the Holidays by Lane Hayes (3 stars)
This story features Derek and Gabe from Ms Lane’s ‘Out in College’ series along with appearances by MCs from other stories in this series as well.

While the story worked well as a standalone. I can easily imagine that what was an enjoyable read for me, having not read any of the stories in this series, will be a much loved holiday story for fans of this author and the ‘Out of College’ series.

Single Dad Christmas by RJ Scott (3.5 stars)
‘Single Dad Christmas’ is set in the world of Ms Scott’s series ‘Single Dads’ however, the characters in this story have not been featured in a book of their own and there’s no strong connection to any of the books so far which allows this story to very easily be read as a standalone story.

Even though we don’t get a peek at any of the characters from previous books I can honestly say I would love to have more about these two men and the adorable set of ‘triplets’ that bring them together. This one was an incredibly sweet story set during the Christmas holiday and filled with love.

Twelve Days of UPS by Eli Easton (4 stars)
Well that was adorable. This one was just so in keeping with the times…like ‘Love in the time of cholera’ keeping with the times. It was sweet, adorable and uplifting. I know some authors have opted not to write stories that reflect the current state of the world. But, Ms Easton has not shied away from the world we are not living I in with this story and I have to say, I applaud her for not only going there but for reminding us that, in spite of everything, with faith and a bit of holiday magic there can still be some happy in the world.

Must Be Santa by Annabeth Albert (4.5 stars)
For fans of Annabeth Albert and specifically her characters Teddy and Nick from the holiday story ‘Better Not Pout’ this one is a holiday treat. We get a chance to revisit Teddy and Nick and share in their first holiday as parents. It’s filled with the warmth and love of the holiday as Ms Albert shares a festive reminder of what really matters in this world with all of us because nothing makes a holiday merry and bright like family.

The First Snow of Winter by Joanna Chambers (4 stars)
In general, historical romance is not at the top of my reading list, however, without fail Joanna Chambers never fails to grab my attention and keep it with her stories of the past and ‘The First Snow of Winter’ has not changed this fact.

Sam and Jasper have known each other since childhood and while their last parting almost ended with a kiss…a lot has changed since then. Ms Chambers has created a holiday story about second chances and new beginnings that will easily melt the reader’s heart.

Five Gold Blings by Clare London (4 stars)
Grey works as a deliveryman and he’s just trying to make it through to Christmas when he’ll get a break from his job and life in general…it hasn’t been a good year. Alec’s a vlogger who’s trying to get established and he depends on those parcels that Grey brings to help him do his job.

Grey and Alec for me were simply adorable and I loved these two as their lives slowly became intertwined thanks to the internet. Grey turned out to be a the Christmas present that Alec needed most and Alec helped Grey to once again feel the spirit of the season and share not just hope but his heart.

Sojourn for Christmas by Posy Roberts (3.5 stars)
‘Sojourn for Christmas’ introduces us to Sawyer a university student who suddenly finds himself with no place to stay during the holidays until Gregg the owner of the dog he walks and the sexy silver fox that Sawyer’s been attracted to since their first meeting insist that he stay with him.

I appreciated that this story brings us in at the beginning of this relationship rather than somewhere in the middle. It definitely allowed me to more easily become invested in Sawyer and Gregg’s budding relationship and I’m looking forward to finding what happens next between these two men.

Sometimes, Always by Suki Fleet (3.5 stars)
I really enjoyed this story so much that before I even took the time to add my thoughts here, I went off to the cyber bookstore to find ‘Sometimes There’s Stars’ which is the book that tells the story of how Echo & Peri first met and I honestly can’t wait to read it but wait I must.

For me ‘Sometimes, Always’ will forever be my first meeting with Echo and Peri and what a wonderful holiday meeting it was. Filled with love, romance, dancing, their dearest friends and two delinquent dogs.

No Place Like Home by Garrett Leigh (3.5 stars)
Fans of Garrett Leigh’s ‘Roads’ series featuring Pete & Ash will love this gem. It’s a chance to spend a bit of the holidays with the boys. ‘No Place Like Home’ was a delightful holiday slice of life and I couldn’t help but remember how much I enjoyed this series, so much so that it’s bumped it’s way up on my ‘To Be Re-read’ list.

The Gift of Forever by Felice Stevens (3.5 stars)
‘The Gift of Forever’ is a sweet holiday interlude featuring ‘Frisco and Torre’ from Ms Stevens ‘Lost In New York’ series with glimpses of other characters from the series as well. While I enjoyed the story for the sweet Christmas vignette that it was. I think that this was once again a case of people who have read the series and are fans of these characters will enjoy it on a whole different level. However, for me it still worked well as a standalone story and I enjoyed reading it.

Dressed in Holiday Style by VL Locey (4.5 stars)
This was one of my favorite stories. It was fun and funny. Jakob French and Chet Wallace are both window dressers in New York who happen to work for stores that are not only right across the road from each other but are in direct competition and ironically they’ve never met…until Jakob decides that Chet has somehow stolen his idea for this years holiday windows. Jakob’s determined to vent his rage on Chet and what better way than a snowball fight?

This one was a standalone story filled with the stress of the holiday along with the fun and the joy of the season. Something that we can all appreciate and relate to on some level.

Driving Home for Christmas by Annabelle Jacobs (4 stars)
‘Driving Home for Christmas’ is a standalone, friends to lovers’ story. Tom and Jared haven’t spoken in a few months and it seems like Christmas is truly a time for miracles when Tom comes across Jared shortly after his current boyfriend and ride home for the holidays unceremoniously dumps him at the first motorway service station he comes to. Awkward or not Jared’s more than happy to accept Tom’s offer of a ride giving the two men a chance to resolve their problems and make their holiday merry and bright.

A Santa for Trin by Amber Kell (3 stars)
This one is a cute holiday story set in the world of Ms Kell’s ‘Moon Pack’ and while I had no problem understanding the story and most of the character relationships while I was reading it I also felt that I was missing a lot of background that would have added a lot to my enjoyment of the events contained in the story.

So, for me not having read the previous books in this series (17 in total as well as 2 short stories) felt like a definite disadvantage.

Homestead for the Holidays by Alex Jane (4 stars)
‘Homestead for the Holidays’ is the 15th and final story in this anthology and like many of the preceding stories ‘Homestead for the Holidays’ is attached to a series. However, unlike some of the other stories the characters in this story are a contemporary addition to the series so the connection between the series and this story doesn’t leave the reader feeling like there is background info that would have added to the overall enjoyment of the story. However, it did leave me with another series on my TBR list that I’m hoping to get the chance to read in the near future.

Closing comments…
‘Gifts for the Season’ gave me an early start to my holiday reading with a number of authors whom I’ve really come to enjoy over the years as well as some new choices. As always some stories worked better for me than others but overall this was an enjoyable collection of holiday cheer.

*************************
An ARC of ‘Gifts for the Season’ was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twelve Days of UPS by Eli Easton

Twelve Days of UPS by Eli Easton is the age-old story of lusting for the hunky delivery guy. As the holiday approaches, Paul begins receiving a daily mystery package each loosely tied to the classic “The Twelve Days of Christmas” song. But, more than the gifts and their mystery sender, Paul is attracted to the captivating and kind delivery guy, Dan Partridge.

As the days advance, Dan and Paul strike up a friendship, with each invested in seeing what the next gift will be. Practicing the stipulated COVID-19 guidelines, Dan and Paul analyze each gift for its tie to “The Twelve Days of Christmas” with excitement. Could the hunky delivery guy be the mystery sender? If he is, he is a darn good actor.

Paul and Dan just click and resonate their attraction for one another. Twelve Days of UPS is a picture-perfect tender holiday connection. The mystery sender and their goal is cute and well-played giving Paul a content and happy holiday as he navigates his new home in a new town.

The Gift of Forever by Felice Stevens

Part of the Lost in New York series, The Gift of Forever by Felice Stevens reunites us with Torre and Frisco. Don’t worry too much if you haven’t been following the series. While characters emerge, The Gift of Forever focuses on the unfounded insecurities between Torre and Frisco as their fears quell, solidifying their forever.

Frisco’s interaction with Torre’s niece, Tina, is comical at first, as the fear radiates off of Frisco. But, like the Grinch, Frisco’s heart expands as Tina works her sweet magic on the stoic man. Suddenly the holidays don’t seem foolish and the traditions seem like more of a blessing.

Torre and Frisco are complete opposites but at the core they share an intense love for each other. As they search for the perfect gift, they turn back, looking over the past year for inspiration. Each gift profoundly resonates the affection in their hearts, banishing their insecurities once and for all, focusing on the here and now and a forever future together.

An Unworthy Gift by AE Via

Grinches Only Facebook group, I literally laughed out loud at this one and went searching for it on Facebook. I often tell my boys and partner that “Christmas is cancelled this year” receiving their blatant eye rolls and scoffing. Okay, back to An Unworthy Gift by AE Via. Even with my own Grinch like tendencies, my heart broke for Spencer, but Colman and his kindness put it back together again.

The loss that both Spencer and Colman endure is heavy, but, from that loss, a magical partnership is born. Spencer and Colman are on opposite ends of the financial spectrum, which only causes imaginary obstacles for them. As Spencer lets his guard down and grief out, Colman seeks to renew his outlook on life and in the process each mend some of the heartache they had succumbed to.

An Unworthy Gift begins with a chance meeting that runs its course, but fate, or more like a guardian angel, doesn’t let it end there. The feelings of “just survive the holidays” morph into a new beginning, new traditions and a promising outlook for the future.

[BevS · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up. Only read some of the stories as there are authors in the anthology I just don't get on with, but it's for a good cause anyhoo.

Nice catching up with Peri and Echo in Suki Fleet's story Sometimes, Always. I also really liked Eli Easton's UPS guy story Twelve Days of UPS, and it was the only one I read that made any mention of this bl**dy awful pandemic. Joanna Chambers story, The First Snow of Winter was lovely [and we could definitely do with more from Sam and Jasper], and Annabelle Jacob's Driving Home for Xmas and Alex Jane's Homestead for the Holidays were pretty good too. Most of the others I didn't bother with as they seemed to be continuations of series that I hadn't read...although I will read No Place Like Home by Garrett Leigh as it features Ash and Pete from the Roads series, and I loved that one a few years ago.

[Catherine]

I have a love/hate relationship with short story anthologies, but it seems that I can never resist a charity Christmas anthology jampacked with stories by my favourite authors. I'm looking for stories that appeal to my deeply buried gooey centre and make me want to curl up in front of a warm fire with a cozy blanket and a cup of Bailey's spiked coffee while snow falls outside my windows.

I'll review stories individually below & then average my star ratings for the overall rating for the antho.

Regardless of the ratings, I just wanted to take a moment to thank the authors for giving their time and their talents in support of this charity. THANK YOU!

And without further ado...

A.E. Via (An Unworthy Gift) - ? Stars


Lane Hayes (Out For The Holidays) - 3 Stars

This was a sweet holiday vignette about post-college life, and chasing down your dreams and living your life on your own terms, even in the face of challenges and family disapproval. I enjoyed revisiting Gabe and Derek and seeing how they were getting on with their HEA, but between them and all the other Out in College series men popping up for cameos, I could easily see how readers unfamiliar with Hayes' signature series may feel a little left out of all the holiday cheer.

RJ Scott (Single Dad Christmas) - 3.5 Stars

Ouch. This story was heart stabby from the first page to the last. Thank goodness for those last few paragraphs that turned it all around for us. I thought Scott did a great job of capturing that aching longing of unrequited love. Also, the kids were adorbz.

Eli Easton (Twelve Days of UPS) - 3.5 Stars

Total COVID Christmas meet cute between a work-from-home prince and our modern day hero - the delivery drivers that are absolutely killing themselves to deliver the goods that keep all of us feeling connected to the outside world.

Annabeth Albert (Must Be Santa) - 3 Stars

Solidly sweet story, but it missed a little of that holiday pizazz for me because it started before Thanksgiving and ended on Christmas day, so we didn't get the full effect of the wintertime feels.

Clare London (Five Gold Blings) - ? Stars

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked a few of these stories and speed-read a few others that had characters from series I've never read. In fact, most (thankfully not all) authors used shorts that would normally be holiday gifts to their fans as their stories here in this anthology. Theoretically, I like that and I'm happy they put this together to support charity, but one can become totally lost when dumped into the middle of a proposal or a sex scene or a family gathering, etc. when one has never previously met the characters.

So by all means, read this but do so knowing you may be lost if you aren't familiar with the authors' works.

[Ro · Rating 3 out of 5]

Must Be Santa by Annabeth Albert

This novella focuses on established couple Teddy and Nick from ‘Better Not Pout’. They have been taking classes to become foster parents and are just waiting for the call that they are needed. In this story, that call, or in this case a visit from the social worker, happens. They wanted to focus on a single, older child or teen who needed them. Life, of course, never goes the way you plan and the folder they get contains the information on two siblings. Nick is okay with brothers, then gets the second curveball. It’s a brother and sister team. The guest room with the bunk beds? Well, that’s not acceptable. And really, what does Nick know about girls? He knows they confuse him!

But what he does come to realize is, “…all we can really do is try to love the kid. Kids.” This spoke to the special education teacher in me since so many of my students needed someone to just love them. These guys can do that. And they are pretty honest with themselves. It’s going to be great? “He trailed off because he couldn’t promise great. Or fun. There were no guarantees at all here.” But even as Teddy thinks it, Nick is confirming their ability. “Something. It’s gonna be something… But they could do this. They would do this.”

Watching Teddy and Nick navigate their first night with the kids, Natalie and James, was precious. You just know it’s going to be okay even if it isn’t easy. These kids have been through a lot and that’s hard, but Teddy and Nick are solid support. “And maybe none of us know yet exactly how this is going to go. We’ll have to figure it out together.”

And so they do, with one step forward, two steps back, a little jealousy, a lot of exhaustion and a ton of love.
Twelve Days of UPS by Eli Easton

A secret Santa doing the Twelve Days of Christmas? Yes, please!

First off, I have to shout out the use of masks, defining this story as set in 2020. “Naturally, in the summer, I’d hardly received any packages at all. Now that the delivery guy was covered up like a maiden aunt from California visiting relatives in Alaska, I was swimming in them. In packages. Not maiden aunts.” Very difficult to ogle the face of your eye candy when half their face is covered.

This story is told in first person by Paul, the recipient of the Secret Santa gifts delivered by said hunky delivery guy, Dan. Paul has been trying to figure out who could be sending them. His parents? “Mom swore it wasn’t them.” His sister? “My sister Ally… had neither the money nor the temperament for such games.” His friends? “Most of them were still miffed that I’d moved across Puget Sound and left the old neighborhood.” Okay, what about his ex-boyfriend? “It was possible. Perhaps he wanted to get back together. But James had never had a romantic bone in his body. It was hard to imagine him sending anonymous gifts, or that he was eager to win me back given how cold he’d been when he dumped me.” So it’s a mystery.

Some of the gifts, Dove bars or fancy pears, are general to the Twelve days of Christmas. But on the fourth day the gift shows a knowledge of Paul. So it has to be someone who knows him. When gift number five arrives, he and hunky Dan talk and Dan suggests it will be a great romance. Paul is skeptical but what else can it be, but someone who likes him looking to get his attention?

Paul and Dan get to know each other a little more with each delivery and on delivery six, Paul invites Dan to be present while he opens the gift. It is a pillow and it is Dan who points out, six geese a-laying connects to a goose down pillow. He fishes a little bit too, asking if Paul has a boyfriend or significant other. I love how careful Dan is about Covid. He is very conscious that he is a delivery man and needs to keep people safe. I felt the pain here. “Damn this stupid pandemic, that I couldn’t even invite someone into my home.”

Paul’s friends bring up that Dan, whom they know, is so different from Paul’s usual type. Paul goes for brainy and snobby, not beefcake. “There was a time, when I was in my early twenties, when I’d thought myself intellectually superior to people like that.” At least he is figuring out that isn’t true. Along the way he gets to know Dan while trying to figure out who is sending his Twelve days of Christmas gifts.

This was a cute, happy story that approached the pandemic realistically and I appreciated that Paul was able to see some positives to it. “At times COVID felt like being thrown back into the 20th century when it was improper to touch someone’s hand or see an ankle. It had its own charm, I decided. There was something exquisitely tempting about not being able to touch, of being forced to keep one’s distance.” It was a short glimpse into the “new normal” way of getting to know someone in the times of Covid and I liked it.

Out for the Holidays by Lane Hayes

This novella opens with an ending quote from ‘A Christmas Carol’: “I will live in the Past, the Present and the Future. The Spirit of all Three shall strive within me.” The story is told in first person point of view and focuses on Derek and Gabe (original story, Out in the Deep). They are post college; Gabe is continuing his pursuit of water polo at the Olympics and coaching; Derek is working on the opening of his longed-for French bistro. He has followed his dream of attending culinary school despite the disappointment of his mother and now it’s time to make his bistro dream a reality.

Well, the dream of an elegant, sophisticated bistro is, right now, a little fuzzy. “The reality was an empty shell of a room with chipped tile flooring, cobwebs in every corner, and if I wasn’t mistaken, mouse droppings on the front door.” There is a lot of second-guessing of himself by Derek but also a lot of support from not just Gabe but all their friends, who band together to help pull this mess of a place into shape.

I admit, I felt so sorry for Gabe. “He was slated to go to Tokyo next summer to play with the US water polo team in the Olympics.” It’s Gabe’s dream and as we all know, Covid put a stop to the Tokyo Olympics. Gabe is so supportive and so in love, I want his dream to come true as well. His visit to Derek’s parents is the work of a true partner. He treats Derek the way we should all be treated. “He was my favorite human.”

The little angst there is revolves around Derek’s relationship with his mother, but it is minor.

The best thing about this story for me was that I had just read ‘Out in the Deep’ and to see the continuation of Derek and Gabe’s relationship was wonderful. I also loved getting to see the couples from the other books in their established relationships.

Driving Home for Christmas by Annabelle Jacobs - My favorite of the book

In this short story, Jared is on his way home for Christmas when he gets into a fight with his boyfriend, who is driving and who also kicks him out of the car at the service station and leaves. Jared is contemplating ideas to get home when his ex-best friend, Tom, shows up. They haven’t spoken in four months but Tom isn’t about to leave Jared and his luggage abandoned. After all, they had been best friends for ten years before the big falling out.

They haven’t spoken for four months but now they have three hours stuck together in the car. Tom can’t stand Jared’s fidgeting, so the conversation happens. “I know you don’t want to talk about this. You made that quite clear with your refusal to answer any of my texts, calls or emails.” Yes, Jared feels a little petty but since Tom ignored him first and then send one nasty text that Jared did actually read, he feels justified. As it turns out, after a decade of friendship and feelings for Tom, Jared made a move and kissed him. “That kiss was the single most perfect moment of my life so far.” Except as so often happens, Tom’s reaction wasn’t great. So Jared couldn’t deal with the loss of something so important to him. “But when I read your text, it broke me… I was embarrassed. I thought I’d ruined our friendship.” I let out a bitter laugh. “Which, it turns out, I did. And I couldn’t face reading any more of your words.”

The snowstorm that pops up forces them to stop for the night and more talking is in order. Their misunderstanding and falling out was really the fault of both of them and being isolated is the perfect way to get back to being friends, which is easy, and moving on to more, which is scary. The story is short, so is basically them talking it out and making up in the best possible way.


Sojourn With You by Posy Roberts

Sawyer is finishing up at college. Five months to go and he will be a graduate with an incredible internship. He is excited to be going to see his family for Christmas since it’s been months. Except just before going home he gets a call from his sister, Ellie. His good mood takes a big crash and burn when she reveals that the secret Sawyer has kept from his father for seven years – that he is gay – has come to light and dear old dad’s reaction is just as bad as Sawyer feared it would be. While Sawyer hoped a few days would cool Dad off and they could talk face to face at Christmas, that doesn’t happen. “Ellie warned me off coming home for Christmas entirely but wouldn’t give me any more details on what Dad was saying. “You’re better off not knowing” was her reply.” Even as this was happening, I was glad Sawyer had his sister in his corner. That, however, didn’t solve the problem of what Sawyer was to do over Christmas.

First he has plans. “Right now I had a very muscular gent expecting me for a bit of playtime and his supper, and I didn’t like to keep him waiting.” I laughed when I read about the gent.

Sawyer knows Gregg, a divorced older man, through his side job. Gregg is gorgeous but he’s not just older with a daughter Sawyer’s age, he is also straight and Sawyer’s employer. The whole sordid story of Dad uninviting Sawyer to Christmas comes out and of course Gregg responds with an invitation to stay with him. Platonically, of course, but a place to stay over the Holidays.

My heart was hurting for Sawyer throughout this. He knew his dad would react badly and he did. But there was also the fact that Sawyer was supposed to work at his dad’s company after graduation – Conti and Sons Handymen – and now would that even happen? Dad is pretty homophobic and clear about expressing that. His conversation with Gregg about what he really wanted to do with his life and how Dad had changed that was heartbreaking.

At least he has a place to stay – rent free in exchange for walking the dog and decorating the house, as well as a handsome man for company. “I had to focus on something else besides being rejected by my father for Christmas.”

As they talk about Gregg’s daughter, Sawyer’s family, and getting outed, these two become friends even as Sawyer fantasizes about him. “He caught me staring at the way the fabric of his jeans made the perfect resting spot for his dick. Like he’d worn these jeans for a decade, gotten hard in them, stretched them out over and over, and maybe someone had rubbed him through the denim, wearing the fabric and fraying the fibers.”

They become friends as they go through setting up for a Christmas together. Sawyer’s attempt at making cookies made me laugh (flour in your eyelashes, anyone?). And Gregg’s unintentional sexy comments, “We’ve got a lot of balls to roll”, made me like him even as he drove me crazy with his mixed signals.

Just a warning, there is no resolution to Sawyer’s problems with his father and the story between Sawyer and Gregg ends as a friendship. There is no romance and I got the feeling it was a lead-in to a longer story. “Maybe I couldn’t have love, but I had a friend, a fresh path ahead of me, and a new partner in creativity. Perhaps that’s all I ever needed.”

NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.

[~nikki the recovering book addict · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not bad..

Anthologies don’t always do it for me. But this wasn’t bad. By far, my favourite was the one by Annabeth Albert. So....adorable!!

Alex Jane came a close second. Would have definitely loved to read a full novel of that short novella! The rest were ok. Part of the challenge of anthologies is having short enough stories but which covered enough to make a proper story.

Somehow that kinda means most authors take the instalove route which ugh... I do not like. So perhaps that’s why anthologies don’t always do it for me 😆

[George · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 Stars to each of the authors for participating in a joint venture to support The Trevor Project

While I feel like the Grinch for doing this, I can only rate the overall effort as a 3-star read.

As with any anthology, there was considerable variation in the pleasure derived from reading the individual stories.

My favorites were: ‘Dressed in Holiday Style’ by V.L. Locey; ‘Single Dad Christmas’ by RJ Scott; ‘Driving Home For Christmas’ by Annabelle Jacobs; ‘Twelve Days of UPS’ by Eli Easton; and ‘Homestead for the Holidays’ by Alex Jane.

Now to a pet peeve of mine - There was one other story I was thoroughly enjoying written by an author I usually like. I was really into the narrative and the main characters in this short story when suddenly it just stopped. In essence, the author said if you’re enjoying this and want to know what happens, buy my next two books. Clearly the language used wasn’t that crass, but that’s exactly the effect of not providing even a HFN ending while hawking other books. It’s disappointing that the others agreed to include this entry.

Bottom line: Great idea for a worthy cause with several enjoyable short stories.

[Denise H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Anthology is a gift to us m/m readers...
A marvelous collection of heartwarming, sexy and romantic short stories. Well written with a wide variety of interests.
- An Unworthy Gift - A. E. Via - the billionaire and the cigar bar waiter, Spencer. Adorable, highly sexy and exciting.

- Out For the Holidays - Lane Hayes - Blonde Derek is a Chef opening a restaurant, and tall dark Gabe is an Olympic Water Polo player. Sweet, clever Christmas with milestones. Lovely.

- Single Dad Christmas - R. J. Scott - Austin, 41, and his triplets need Manny Paul, 26, who just gave his notice.

- 12 Days of Christmas - Eli Easton - Paul is a lonely author, but begins receiving a package each day. Dan is the UPS driver, and the mystery is revealed Christmas Day. Sweet.

- Must Be Santa - Annabeth Albert - Teddy and Nick are a happy established couple, get their biggest wish of all. Are the tough cop and the social worker ready ?

- The First Snow of Winter - Joanna Chambers - 1874.
A historical holiday with Captain Sam, 25, back in England with his loss and attitude. Jasper, 22, shows up early for Christmas, was Sam’s crush 5 yrs. ago. What a sexy surprise.

- Five Gold Blings - Clare London - Mr. Partridge, blogger, gets a package. Gray is the delivery man who submits to modeling men’s underwear in the podcast. Wait ‘til you find out where the 5th ring is !

- Sojourn for Christmas - Posy Roberts - College student Sawyer, walks Gregg’s dog, Murphy. He finds a friend in Gregg when his Dad uninvited him from Christmas at home, because he’s gay. Sawyer and Gregg welcome their beginning bromance !

- Sometimes, Always - Suki Fleet - Echo made deliveries to Peri’s place where he became enthralled with the man and his fashion business. Echo encourages Peri to make his own designs. The men simply were made for each other.

- No Place Like Home - Garrett Leigh - Pete and Ash are back, but Ash is laid up from surgery. Pete works long hours in the ER, but they will manage friends and family, they are involved, and later, hot sexy times.

- The Gift of Forever - Felipe Stevens - Torre Rossi loves Christmas with boyfriend Frisco. They are different, but they fit. With Christmas activities as uncles, and big plans, it’s an awesome holiday. I loved these characters.

- Driving Home for Christmas - Annabel Jacobs - Our exes Tom and Jared, end up driving home together. Spicy sex and a second chance. Very nice.

- A Santa for Trin - Amber Kell - Shifters. This is special ! The tiger shifter Dare, and werewolf, Steven, traded topping, and these sexy men want to give a Santa to all of the Pack children. The powerful magical Alpha of the Pack is a non-believer. I loved these shifters and the different magical world.

- Homestead For the Holidays - Alex Jane - CJ takes Jace to his folks cabin. It was the perfect place to finally tell Jace how he feels.

I enjoyed these holiday tales, with terrific characters and sexy men.
Enjoy !

=====

[Anke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading this is a work in progress:

AE Via, An Unworthy Gift - 3 stars
Lane Hayes, Out for the Holidays - nope, too much about a series I haven't read
RJ Scott, Single Dad Christmas - 3 stars
Eli Easton, Twelve Days of UPS - 5 stars
Annabeth Albert, Must Be Santa - 5 stars
Joanna Chambers, The First Snow of Winter - 4 stars
Clare London, Five Gold Blings - 5 stars
Posy Roberts, Sojourn for Christmas - 3 stars
Suki Fleet, Sometime, Always - 2 stars
Garrett Leigh, No Place Like Home - nope, I DNF the book Slide
Felice Stevens, The Gift of Forever - 2 stars
VL Locey, Dressed in Holiday Style - 4 stars
Annabelle Jacobs, Driving Home For Christmas - 4 stars
Amber Kell, A Santa for Trin - nope, shifter!
Alex Jane, Homestead for the Holidays - nope, too much about a series I haven't read

[Adam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tag team review with Shee!

3.5 stars overall


This holiday anthology will definitely put you in the seasonal mood! The stories are a mixed bag, but overall they brought feels, some heat, and a lot of Christmas cheer. And even better - all proceeds go to The Trevor Project.

Oddly enough, my favourites from the anthology both had deliverymen in them - Twelve Days of UPS by Eli Easton and Five Gold Blings by Clare London. I too would like a hunky deliveryman at my door for Christmas!

My one complaint - most of these short stories have connections to prior books, and that wasn’t always clear in the blurb. Prior reading will definitely make a difference in the experience.

However, all of these shorts can be read on their own regardless. So bundle-up and enjoy!


Reviews of each short story available on the blog:

[SJ]

I am going to reread and rate the stories from all these good writers. 👍

[Aldi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Averaged-out rating 2.8. I admit I find short stories in romance a hard sell. The format doesn't really lend itself to any kind of slow build so you often end up with something rushed and/or characters you don't really get to know enough to care. Or authors try to circumvent that by setting a story in an existing book or series and land you with unfamiliar backstories and some couple you don't know in some seasonal boring plot you don't care about. (Yes, way too many authors went that route for this one!)

I took a chance on this because I liked some of the contributors' work so I figured I'd end up with at least a few good ones. There was a handful that was genuinely enjoyable, but there were also quite a few duds. I really wish authors understood that a short story is NOT a teaser for your ongoing series.

Individual ratings in order of reading:

RJ Scott - Single Dad Christmas: 2 stars
Grown-ass man in love with his manny whines for entire length of story about how he's in love with his manny and should tell him but can't tell him, and also shuts down any attempt by said manny to initiate a talk about how it's super-obviously mutual. Contrived non-obstacle, awkward resolution (feelings end up confessed via a mall Santa, cringe!), and sickeningly cute triplets on top. Grinching right out of this one. (Also we never learn a single thing about the manny other than that he wants to travel and is great with kids.) No real effort at fleshing these characters out even a little.

Joanna Chambers - The First Snow of Winter: 4 stars
Lovely, atmospheric historical about an amputee war veteran reconnecting with the boy he kissed five years ago. Sam's war trauma was well-handled, both characters were nicely developed despite the short format, and the "snowed in at Christmas" setting was cosy and magical. Could've done with a smidge more steam and a less rushed ending (actually there was probably enough here for a longer work), but it was a well-crafted story even so.

Garrett Leigh - No Place Like Home: 3 stars
Since this was part of an existing series, I did feel like I was missing context, but the characters seemed complex with intriguing histories. Also, hot.

Eli Easton - Twelve Days of UPS: 4 stars
A very sweet story of a fledgling connection between a writer and a UPS delivery man set in this our plague year of 2020. Both characters were lovely and sparky with each other, and the twelve days of deliveries thing lent the story a nice structure. This was the first story I've read this year with a COVID setting and I thought it was really well done. Easton made great use of the weird quasi-Victorian vibe imposed on flirting by COVID measures (half-covered faces, keeping your distance, being intrigued by more subtle things you might not notice in normal times). Thoroughly charming.

Alex Jane - Homestead for the Holidays: 3 stars
Sweet college BFF-to-lovers story with a cosy rustic setting. I don't have loads of patience for the "pining in silence for years" thing, but it was well handled here.

A.E. Via - An Unworthy Gift: 2 stars
Eh. Started promising, but quickly turned into insta-love and featured an overlong, weird rich people indulgence porn scene in a gentleman's club where waaay too much time is spent describing cigar and overpriced booze flavours. Cole's whole "humble billionaire" shtick didn't feel authentic and there was something weirdly fetishising about his insta-obsession with Spencer (who is beautiful and perfect and just hates that he always attracts the rich dudes, except apparently for this particular rich dude?) Maybe it's just the year, but something about this whole "indulgent billionaire woos poor boy with extravagant displays of wealth" thing seemed awkward and tone-deaf.

Amber Kell - A Santa for Trin: 1 star
Weird shifter thing (wolves and... tigers?) from existing series, with absolutely no effort expended to make the world or characters accessible to the uninitiated. Writing was terrible, one bad sex scene after the other. Nope.

Annabelle Jacobs - Driving Home for Christmas: 4 stars
Two BFFs reconnect on Christmas road trip after four months' radio silence following a fraught kiss. There is actual talking and clearing the air, the chemistry is fabulous, there's getting snowed in and Only One Bed, and everything is just lovely. It was also nice to have something very British in the mix.

Lane Hayes - Out for the Holidays: 2.5 stars
Look, if I don't know your characters or any of their many constantly name-dropped friends from your main series, I'm unlikely to be deeply invested either in their must-open-a-bistro-by-Christmas business drama or their ongoing issues with their parents. Also, there was a one-time mention of a face mask so presumably this is set currently, but otherwise there was no mention of COVID or its impact on opening a restaurant? Weird.

Clare London - Five Gold Blings: 2.5 stars
Concept's cute - grinchy delivery man helps out hassled vlogger with modelling fashion for his channel - but the execution made this too silly and insta-lovey for me. (Plus their meet-cute gave me creep vibes, what delivery man just invites themselves in? Ick.)

Felice Stevens - The Gift of Forever: 2.5 stars
Another pairing from an existing series, i.e. people you don't really get to know, cornily hamming their way towards a mutual Christmas proposal. Pass.

V.L. Locey - Dressed in Holiday Style: 3 stars
The pairing was interesting (age gap, interracial, MC with bipolar disorder), but I wasn't in love with the aggressively quirky style and there wasn't enough character depth to really get invested (they basically rattled off their entire history and personalities over coffee, which was a bit clumsy). (Side note, there was also something really uncomfortable about the supposed cuteness of initiating a quite aggressive snowball fight with a stranger that leads to police involvement, considering said stranger was Black. Especially when his initial response made it pretty clear he was wary of being genuinely attacked.)

Posy Roberts - Sojourn for Christmas: 3.5 stars
This very cheekily stopped before it went anywhere, although it was at least a beginning instead of a random out-take, and a more successful teaser than any of the other samples from existing series. The writing was good and the pairing lovely and promising. Plus there's a pushy dog.

Annabeth Albert - Must Be Santa: 2.5 stars
Also from an existing series, I think (they're all blurring together!), and well-written, but it was kidfic and as such not really for me. Didn't get to know the couple much, as everything was focused on making the new foster kids feel at home. It was fine for what it was, I just wasn't feeling it.

Suki Fleet - Sometimes, Always: 2.5 stars
Tbh, I had no frickin' clue what was going on in this one half the time. I get that you can't cram in ALL the background info from an established series, but it should still be somewhat clear whether your characters are aliens, telepaths, non-neurotypical or just really intense in some super-weird, purple-prosey ways.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

When this anthology was first announced I couldn't one-click it fast enough. Number one – it's filled with stories by some of my all-time favorite authors; and number two – the proceeds go to a worthy cause and I love buying charity anthologies.

Although I haven't had a chance to read every story yet, the ones that I have read are beautiful stories for the season and most brought more than one tear to my eyes.

Here are my comments, listed in the order that the stories appear in the book:

Out for the Holidays by Lane Hayes was the perfect way to reconnect with Derek and Gabe from Out in the Deep, as well as other characters from her Out In College series. This story really tugged on my emotions.

Single Dad Christmas by RJ Scott had me blubbering like a baby in places. It was such an emotional story for me but I can't exactly say why other than it's by RJ Scott. 😊 I knew that Austin and Paul would get their HEA but the story just really got to all of my emotions while reading it.

Must Be Santa by Annabeth Albert was a wonderful follow-up to her 2018 Christmas story, Better Not Pout. This story also had tears streaming down my face as I read it. (OK, I'm that kind of emotional reader, I admit it.) The decision to open their hearts and home to a couple of kids in need was perfect for Teddy and Nick.

No Place Like Home by Garrett Leigh was a nice visit with Pete and Ash from her Roads series.

And last, but not least, Dressed in Holiday Style by V.L. Locey was full of her trademark wit and repartee between the two MCs, Jakob and Chet. What starts out as a rivalry of sorts, along with a snowball fight, turns into the beginning of a friendship. I loved the way that V.L. handled Jakob's medical problem (I don't want to give it away). I'd love to see this short story, about a new couple, turned into a full-length novella or novel.

If you are a fan of any of the authors included in this anthology, you shouldn't wait to get your hands on it. I'm looking forward to reading the remaining stories soon.

***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions***

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gifts for the Season is a warm-hearted collection of seasonal madness, from new love to old, it's all here. Each one gives you a short story, some with new couples, some with old, but all full of Christmas spirit.

I will admit, I preferred the ones that were new stories but that is because I really don't like reading stories where I think I may have missed out on something!

For me, my favourites were The First Snow of Winter by Joanna Chambers and Driving Home for Christmas by Annabelle Jacobs. The first because it's a historical romance which stands out from the contemporary/paranormal rest and the second because junction 10 on the M42 is well known to me so it gave me a feeling of familiarity.

As with all anthologies, some I enjoyed more than others, but every story is a winner in my book. Absolutely recommended by me.

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Nov 6, 2020

[Nicki - The Overflowing Bookcase · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just loved all of the short holiday snippets that are included in this book. From authors that I read religiously: R.J. Scott, Annabeth Albert, V.L. Locey and Lane Hayes that simply added to the characters new and old to new authors: Joanna Chambers, Annabelle Jacobs and Posy Roberts who I now have to find other books that they have written, this was a great collection. Love is in the air, snow is on the ground and the holidays are made so much better at the end of each story. A must read.

[LaShonta · Rating 3 out of 5]

Time to say what I think, huh? Ok, here goes.

As a whole, I give it 3 stars or the simple fact I didn't read all of the stories. Why didn't I? Let me explain.

RJ Scott - Single Dad Christmas - RJ is one of my favorite authors and this did not disappoint. I really enjoyed it. 4 stars.

Annabeth Albert - Must Be Santa - I really enjoyed this one. 4 stars. Here is where doing an established couple works. I didn't have to read their backstory to enjoy this one. I didn't realize they had one until the end of the book when the author tells you. I will go back and read their story though. Very good job!

Joanna Chambers - The First Snow of Winter - I skipped for the simple reason it was a period piece and those are not my cup of tea.

Eli Easton - Twelve Days of UPS - OMG, I totally loved this story. If it were to release by itself, I'd buy it. 5 stars! Kudos to the social distancing and masks as well. I loved that you told a sweet story in the middle of the pandemic! My favorite by far in this book.

Suki Fleet - Sometimes, Always - I couldn't get into this one. I tried. I really did. I ended up skipping most of the story. I have a feeling this couple has a back story that I'm missing somewhere or a book of their own out in the world somewhere.

Lane Hayes - Out For The Holidays -sadly, I don't remember this one at all.

Annabelle Jacobs - Driving Home For Christmas - Cute little short. 3 stars.

Alex Jane - Homestead for the Holidays - This one didn't hold my interest past the first chapter.

Amber Kell - A Santa for Trin - Cute little story. I enjoyed it. 4 stars.

Garrett Leigh - No Place Like Home - Skipped for this reason. If you are trying to attract new readers which is what these books tend to do. DO NOT USE A COUPLE THAT HAS 3 BOOKS OF HISTORY!! I, for one, am not going back to read 3 books to enjoy this short story. I'm going to do exactly what I did and skip it.

V.L. Locey - Dressed In Holiday Style - I loved this one too. I would totally read more about these two. I couldn't stop laughing at the beginning. Snowball fights, cops and misunderstandings. All fun 4 stars.

Clare London - Five Gold Blings - I didn't think I would like it based on the title but I liked it. I was actually shocked. I like Clare London but haven't read this author in a while. Maybe its time to catch up. 3 stars.

Posy Roberts - Sojourn with You - I enjoyed it. I would happily read more of this couple. I'm looking forward to the 2 books to follow. This was more of an introduction to this couple. 3 stars.

Felice Stevens - The Gift of Forever - skipped for the same reason I skipped No Place Like Home.

AE Via - An Unworthy Gift - I don't remember this one either.

So all in all, this was a mixed bag for me. The ones I would read again were 12 days of UPS, A Santa for Trin, Must Be Santa, Sojourn with You and Single Dad Christmas.

[Benjamin Wong · Rating 3 out of 5]

First Christmas read of the year! I have a special place in my heart reserved for Holiday Romances, and time exclusively set aside just for them, especially the last 2 months of the year. To me, the seasonal romances always seem to be just that bit more magical and more romantic especially intermixed with the weather, environment and the setting of the season. What better way than to start with a charity anthology.

So, hopefully I'm off to a good start for my Christmas reads of this especially crappy year!

Edit 6/12/20

So I finally managed to fnish this beast, and I will say that at times it was a struggle, given that it's a multi-author anthology with some I have never read before. I did enjoy some stories, and no surprises there, some of the ones I enjoyed were from authors I had actually read before. As for the others, I wouldn't say I wouldn't read their books ever, but I would say I am in no hurry to do so.

AE Via - An unworthy gift - 1 star
Argh, why and how did this get chosen to be the opening story??? Super disliked the MCs, both coming across as douchey, fake and unrealistic. Even the storyline felt unrealistic and the writing felt forced. Totally skipped out on this midway through.

Lane Hayes - Out for the Holidays - 3 stars
Sticky and sweet this was, with just a hint of drama and a dash of sex. Its like a nicely wrapped little box with a nice little bow, just purely for decoration under the tree. Alhough I liked that even though I haven't read any of the Out in College books by the author, the characters here felt familiar and their individual voices and personalities do peek through. I just was hoping for abit more of a festive feeling coupled with the opening of the bistro, and not that the bistro just so happened to open around the holidays.

RJ Scott - Single Dad Christmas - 3 stars
Very sweet and had the magical feel of Christmas, where you get a sense that anything can possibly happen, and it does in this. Loved the "does he, doesn't he" aspect of it, and the romance though untouched upon in the story, could be felt by the way the two of them felt for each other. The kids were a tad of an overkill but somehow still works.

Eli Easton - Twelve Days of UPS - 4 stars
Really, really liked this one! Eli Easton has always been a no-brainer for me and this didn't disappoint at all. It realised my fantasy of being romanced during the holiday season, and of hot, hunky delivery guys. And the twist with the meddling matchmakers was such a delight. Paul and Dan had great chemistry and the way they danced around each other was sweet and cute. And the fact that it is set this year, in the midst of COVID made it all the more poignant, and wishing for the holday magic to be even more true. Only grouse though, was that this should have been developed into a longer novella or novel!

Annabeth Albert - Must Be Santa - 4 stars
Though I had not read Better Not Pout, it did not mar my enjoyment of this sweet story of Nick and Teddy becoming parents, and celebrating the holidays from tentative to familial and joyous. In a way, this was a romance of sort, one that is of trying to gain love and trust from two kids who have known tragedy and uncertainty, and the way it was done was emotional, realistic and lovely. So going to read the prelude book after I'm done here as I need to know about the Santa and Elf incident!

Joanna Chambers - The First Snow of Winter - 3 stars
It was a nice, different take being that it was set in 1814 Britain amidst the aristocratic families of the day. The elements of loss and sadness coupled with wistfulness for what might have been and culminating in a joyous coupling and a tentative future was nicely paired with the snowy weather of Christmas. Although at times there felt a certain detachment to the story, it was still pretty enjoyable.

Clare London - Five Gold Blings - 3 stars
Fun, quirky and frenatic. At first I worried about why there was another delivery man story thrown in to this anthology, but thankfully it was quite different. I enjoyed the playfulness of it, and the insta attraction and chemistry they both shared. What threw me off though was the spoken way too soon "I love yous". Yes I am a hardcore romantic, but not hardcore enough to think love is possible in just five short days.

Posy Roberts - Sojourn with You - 4 stars
This had all the Christmas feels I enjoy in a holiday romance, and it was so beautifully written. Even though it doesn't end with a romance per se, but the hint of one blossoming is there. Would definitely like to catch up with Gregg, Sawyer and Murphy in future.

Suki Fleet - Sometimes, Always - No rating
Giving this a pass because having never read Sometime's There's Stars by the author, it didn't make much sense to me. Especially when the very beginning of the story is them making out and me clueless about how they got there. Might get back to it in future, if I ever do read the book that precedes it.

Garrett Leigh - No Place Like Home - No rating
Passing on this as well since I have never read the books preceding this.

Felice Stevens - The Gift of Forever - No rating
Again, another novella after a book I hadn't read. Besides, this is an author that's mostly a hard pass for me.

Beginning to get a little frustrated here with all the sequel novellas to books I haven't read being thrown into this anthology. Very close to ending the book anytime now.

V.L. Locey - Dressed In Holiday Style - 3 stars
Cute, funny and packed with holiday feels right amidst the lead up to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade which for decades has served as a precursor to the Christmas season. At times a little manic, but it works as it seemed to match the mood of the season as well as the way Jakob's mind works.

Annabelle Jacobs - Driving Home For Christmas - 3 stars
Nice and light and fluffy, but heavy and hot on the sex, I did enjoy this best friends to lovers story, and it tied in nicely with the holidays with the snow and travelling back home for Christmas eve. Would have loved for it to be longer though.

Amber Kell - A Santa for Trin - No rating
Passing on this, never read the series.

Alex Jane - Homestead for the Holidays - 2 stars
Premise was nice, being a homestead kind of holiday, but execution was not good. Writing was jarring and disjointed at times. I did like the MCs, but their interactions felt forced or fake at times.

[Annie Maus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: My reviews of this anthology are part of a KimmersEroticBookBanter group project. To get reviews of the other shorts, see https://bit.ly/32O3EEl


Must Be Santa by Annabeth Albert
4 Hearts

Must Be Santa is a standalone, as well as a bonus for those who loved Better Not Pout. Police Officer Teddy and Social Worker Nick have been together a while now. Are they ready for a foster son? Uh, oh, what about two kids, a brother and sister? Wait, a sister? They don’t know about girls!

It takes a really wonderful writer to capture personalities in a short story. Annabeth Albert does just that as Teddy and Nick stay true to their characters, in the kitchen, in public and in the bedroom. And their foster kids, who are naturally fearful and reserved at first, defrost just as readers would expect.

Ms. Albert creates perfect moments to depict their progress as a family. “It was funny how the same kid who’d had a spectacular ‘you’re not the boss of me’ meltdown the night before could be so sweet now, so concerned about Teddy’s Birthday,” Nick muses.

If you’d like to watch a happy family form for Christmas, this is your holiday short.

The First Snow of Winter by Joanna Chambers
5 Hearts

Christmas Eve 1814, Sam is back from war after losing an arm, a fact his mother finds so distasteful, he must wear his painful wooden fake to calm her sensibilities. And now she wants him to join her in a family tradition with her best friend’s family, the Huxley’s. “He really didn’t think he could bear to see his new self through the cheerful eyes of the Huxley clan.” Especially because their son, Jasper, is the one and only boy he kissed…before he ran away.

Riding ahead of his family to Sam’s manor, Jasper arrives early, while Sam is out walking and Sam’s parents are visiting their tenants. A snowstorm hits, giving the two young men a night alone together… a night when they discover their commonalities, and Sam learns that a missing arm doesn’t define him as much as his desire for Jasper.

Ms. Chambers’ historical novel gets every detail correct, including the adjustment to loss of a limb. “And he tried not to react when ordinary, everyday things were difficult for him, even when he wanted to curse.” There is great empathy for and between these characters, as they offer one another the promise of a new world, full of good hope. Glorious language, mood and personalities make The First Snow of Winter a sparkling Christmas treat.

Out For The Holidays by Lane Hayes
4 Hearts

Premise: Derek always wanted to open a bistro and gets his chance a few months before Christmas … if he’s willing to take the risk. His partner, Gabe is supportive. But Derek, the son of successful, wealthy parents and a controlling, disapproving mother, isn’t sure he’ll succeed.

Author Lane Hayes chooses wonderful details to engage us in the bistro’s creation. She ably uses Gabe’s consistency to contrast with Derek’s family tension.

But Derek’s deeper wish is very simple. He wants his parents to be happy for him. Can Gabe be his Santa and deliver this gift?

Ms. Hayes invested me, start to finish in this delicacy, with yummy entrées that made my mouth water, a community of quickly recognizable characters as friends, and a perfect ending.

No Place Like Home by Garrett Leigh
4 Hearts

Since Pete and Ash (from Slide, Garrett Leigh’s first installment in the Roads series) are among her most angsty couples, it is delightful to get an update. Ms. Leigh starts No Place Like Home in the middle of a scene, in the middle of a relationship. Yet I could follow this short having read their story years ago and forgotten it, the sign of a terrific writer!

Garrett Leigh quickly brings life to characters and situations. We feel how Pete both loves and loathes ER work, and why Ash, who is lost in his brain, comes to life holding a baby. We sense the bond between these men, who curse at each other the way some couples exchange endearments.
And when they are intimate, Pete and Ash reveal everything that holds their bond together. No words are needed because deeds show their commitment, passion, protectiveness and playfulness. These love scenes are hot because they show Pete and Ash tethered to one another, to love, and to health.

Dressed In Holiday Style by V.L. Locey
5 Hearts

Dressed In Holiday Style is one of the quickest reads in this anthology, yet Ms. Locey manages to make me smile three times. How is that possible?

Window dresser Jakob is incensed to find the department store across the street has stolen his design idea – with just four hours before the Macy’s Day parade! He marches across the street to give the other designer a piece of his mind – or actually of the snowball Jakob throws at Chet. And before you know it, they’re both threatened with arrest.

In the spirit of Christmas, the cop makes them shake hands, call a truce and go to coffee together. Is there an attraction? (Chet) “smiled. I had to grab a streetlight to keep from puddling on the sidewalk like yesterday’s snow…He took my hand, long gingers wrapping around my fingers, and I felt a sudden jolliness settling in my groin.”

But is that enough for Santa to make a match? Smile your way through this one and find out!

Five Gold Blings by Clare London
5 Hearts

Clare. London manages the depth of a full-length novel in this short story about two guys who expect a dreary Christmas. Alec was a design intern whose company went bust and now he models cheap bling-wear to his twenty thousand vlog followers. Gray owns the delivery service that brings Alec new parcels daily, a serious man whose ex told him he had no imagination in bed.

Here’s how Gray sees Alec. “And oh, the giggles! I didn’t think I had much time for guys who giggled. Couldn’t take my eyes off Alec.” Soon Gray is Alec’s new model, and Alec is teaching Gray to smile.

Whether coming up with delightful quips from Alec’s patrons or discussing an old van, Ms. London’s words bring us into the scene. “The heater ticked on for a few beats, maybe still trying valiantly to warm up the freezing gusts had been sending to my feet all day.”

I love a well-turned phrase. Two quotes in a three-paragraph review says it all. Alec, Gray and Clare London filled me with holiday cheer in Five Gold Blings.