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The Little Matchboy
One is a Chicago hoodlum. The other is a young man with an abusive father.
One is not looking for love. The other is lost in a swirl of snow and despair and needs to be found.
Sean is in Harlin to visit a friend and is uncomfortable with the small town vibe. His plan is to head back to Chicago asap, but after he stops a father from beating his son, the young man catches his heart. Should Sean go or should he stay?
Ever since his mom left them, Roddy is overwhelmed by his Dad’s drinking and abuse as he struggles to keep the family shop afloat. When Dad is arrested, Roddy is left on his own.
Will Sean return home? Will Roddy find his way in the snow?
A m/m fairy tale romance retelling of The Little Matchgirl. Includes cameos from Cory and Alex from Hot Chocolate Kisses.
One is not looking for love. The other is lost in a swirl of snow and despair and needs to be found.
Sean is in Harlin to visit a friend and is uncomfortable with the small town vibe. His plan is to head back to Chicago asap, but after he stops a father from beating his son, the young man catches his heart. Should Sean go or should he stay?
Ever since his mom left them, Roddy is overwhelmed by his Dad’s drinking and abuse as he struggles to keep the family shop afloat. When Dad is arrested, Roddy is left on his own.
Will Sean return home? Will Roddy find his way in the snow?
A m/m fairy tale romance retelling of The Little Matchgirl. Includes cameos from Cory and Alex from Hot Chocolate Kisses.
224 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2020
99 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Jackie North
49 books382 followersJackie North has been writing stories since grade school and spent years absorbing the mainstream romances that she found at her local grocery store. She also wanted to put her English degree to good use and write romance novels, because for years she’s had a never-ending movie of made-up love stories in her head that simply wouldn’t leave her alone.
As fate would have it, she discovered m/m romance and decided that men falling in love with other men was exactly what she wanted to write books about.
She creates characters who are a bit flawed and broken, who find themselves on the edge of society, and maybe a few who are a little bit lost, but who all deserve a happily ever after. (And she makes sure they get it!)
She likes long walks on the beach, the smell of lavender and rainstorms, and enjoys sleeping in on snowy mornings. She is especially fond of pizza and beer and, when time allows, long road trips with soda fountain drinks and rock and roll music. In her heart, there is peace to be found everywhere, but since in the real world this isn’t always true, Jackie writes for love.
As fate would have it, she discovered m/m romance and decided that men falling in love with other men was exactly what she wanted to write books about.
She creates characters who are a bit flawed and broken, who find themselves on the edge of society, and maybe a few who are a little bit lost, but who all deserve a happily ever after. (And she makes sure they get it!)
She likes long walks on the beach, the smell of lavender and rainstorms, and enjoys sleeping in on snowy mornings. She is especially fond of pizza and beer and, when time allows, long road trips with soda fountain drinks and rock and roll music. In her heart, there is peace to be found everywhere, but since in the real world this isn’t always true, Jackie writes for love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 2, 2021
~3.5~
Like Hans Christian Andersen's original version, The Little Matchboy is somber and heartbreaking, although it ends on a happier note.
Roddy tries his best, but that doesn't stop his alcoholic father from verbally and physically abusing him. Roddy is 20 but seems much younger. He's always shivering, always lonely.
Sean is in town visiting, and from the moment he meets Roddy at his father's derelict junk shop, he can't bear to see the pain in the young man's eyes.
This is a depressing story, but the sun peeks through a time or two. Roddy and Sean come together for comfort and friendship, and slowly become each other's family.
It goes without saying that I loathed Roddy's father. He didn't deserve Roddy. And if nearly everyone in town knew about Roddy's plight, why the hell did no one intervene?
I love Jackie North's Love Across Time series, but the writing here was weirdly formal. I prefer happier books.
Like Hans Christian Andersen's original version, The Little Matchboy is somber and heartbreaking, although it ends on a happier note.
Roddy tries his best, but that doesn't stop his alcoholic father from verbally and physically abusing him. Roddy is 20 but seems much younger. He's always shivering, always lonely.
Sean is in town visiting, and from the moment he meets Roddy at his father's derelict junk shop, he can't bear to see the pain in the young man's eyes.
This is a depressing story, but the sun peeks through a time or two. Roddy and Sean come together for comfort and friendship, and slowly become each other's family.
It goes without saying that I loathed Roddy's father. He didn't deserve Roddy. And if nearly everyone in town knew about Roddy's plight, why the hell did no one intervene?
I love Jackie North's Love Across Time series, but the writing here was weirdly formal. I prefer happier books.
March 27, 2021
A wonderful modern take on the classic. Sean is visiting his friends, Alex and Cory, in the small town of Harlin in Colorado. Sean had car trouble, so he'll be staying a bit, got an airbnb, and the guys are checking out the winter fair.
Sean, 30, is a seasoned, alert guy
from rough edged Chicago, and sees a young man who is thinly dressed in this cold weather and something drew Sean closer. The drunk dad is abusive and Sean steps in.
Sean goes back again to see the tender soul.
Grey eyed, blonde Roddy, 20, is too thin,
and has quit college to help with the shop since his Mom left them.
Sean is fascinated by Roddy and watches out for him from his airbnb.
Roddy's situation is dire, and Sean befriends him, along with Cory and Alex, but it is becoming more.
Roddy needed somebody on his side, desperately, plus he had no friends, because he didn't want anyone to see his constant bruises. Roddy is realizing his desire for a man, which includes their friends to lovers/partners scenario, and it will be a first relationship for both men.
This story is a slow burn, and when Sean sees Roddy being beaten by his Dad on New Year's Day, he calls the cops and rushes in, and Roddy is saved, but there's a twist.
Afterward, their sexy times are new, and they take it slow.
It is a tough, raw and powerful tale of a young man's hurt and strife.
Our author's writing is well done, meaningful, gripping, and bringing us details that make us feel included. The wrap up is perfect for our guys.
I highly recommend it.
ENJOY !
=====
Sean, 30, is a seasoned, alert guy
from rough edged Chicago, and sees a young man who is thinly dressed in this cold weather and something drew Sean closer. The drunk dad is abusive and Sean steps in.
Sean goes back again to see the tender soul.
Grey eyed, blonde Roddy, 20, is too thin,
and has quit college to help with the shop since his Mom left them.
Sean is fascinated by Roddy and watches out for him from his airbnb.
Roddy's situation is dire, and Sean befriends him, along with Cory and Alex, but it is becoming more.
Roddy needed somebody on his side, desperately, plus he had no friends, because he didn't want anyone to see his constant bruises. Roddy is realizing his desire for a man, which includes their friends to lovers/partners scenario, and it will be a first relationship for both men.
This story is a slow burn, and when Sean sees Roddy being beaten by his Dad on New Year's Day, he calls the cops and rushes in, and Roddy is saved, but there's a twist.
Afterward, their sexy times are new, and they take it slow.
It is a tough, raw and powerful tale of a young man's hurt and strife.
Our author's writing is well done, meaningful, gripping, and bringing us details that make us feel included. The wrap up is perfect for our guys.
I highly recommend it.
ENJOY !
=====
November 12, 2020
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is part of the MM Fairy Tale Romance series, all the books are stand alones, but this one has characters from another Ms North book, Hot Chocolate Kisses. I haven't read that, but now I want to. I loved Cory and Alex here, and I want to read their story.
Sean is in town visiting with Alex and Cory. Roddy works the pawn shop with his dad, who is becoming more and more abusive by the day. Sean befriends Roddy, and finds in himself a powerful need to PROTECT the kiddo. He doesn't know where this need comes from, but when Roddy's dad is arrested, it surges in a way Sean did not see coming. But Sean is only in town a short time, isn't he?
I don't read reviews BEFORE I read a book, I learnt a powerful lesson when I used so don't anymore, but I will read a few AFTER I've read a book, but before I write my review, just to see what others thought about it. One review I found says they didn't love it, because of the slow burn romance.
But guess what?? Thats precisely why I DID love it! It's a slow, sweet romance, thats comes out of nowhere for both Roddy and Sean. There is no instalove here, no immediate and powerful attraction. No break ups and make up. Just an abusive father, and a kiddo needing looking after, and a car that really needs a new home!
What is here though, is a beautifully told love story, across the backdrop between Christmas and New Year. I love the way it grows, it blooms along in a slow, yes, its a very slow pace, but I think here that is needed. It grows quickly into the PROTECT need Sean has, that floors him but he goes with it, he runs with it, and Roddy, the sweet kiddo that he is, revels in the attention.
Roddy's dad has been drinking more since his mum left 2 years ago, Roddy felt abandoned by that. Sean giving the slightest bit of attention draws Roddy into Sean's circle, his life. Staying with Sean when Roddy's dad is arrested for drink driving, seems the best thing, since Sean suggested it. But Roddy isn't quite sure, other than loving the attention, what this growing feeling is he has for Sean.
I LOVED that there is very little *action* here. LOVED it. Would have loved it had it been totally clean. It isn't, but very nearly is. I mean, don't get me wrong, I adore the sexier books, and I won't apologise for that, but HERE? It's not about the sex between these two men, it's about the love that can sweep in and wack you upside the head when you least expect. Its about the feeling of finding something, some place, some ONE for you to call home with.
What this is, and I will repeat myself, is a beautifully written, beautifully told, love story. It says 200 odd pages but honestly, it didn't feel that long, only took me hour and a half to read. I was fully engrossed and engaged from start to finish.
This has to be my favourite Ms North book!
5 full and shiny stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is part of the MM Fairy Tale Romance series, all the books are stand alones, but this one has characters from another Ms North book, Hot Chocolate Kisses. I haven't read that, but now I want to. I loved Cory and Alex here, and I want to read their story.
Sean is in town visiting with Alex and Cory. Roddy works the pawn shop with his dad, who is becoming more and more abusive by the day. Sean befriends Roddy, and finds in himself a powerful need to PROTECT the kiddo. He doesn't know where this need comes from, but when Roddy's dad is arrested, it surges in a way Sean did not see coming. But Sean is only in town a short time, isn't he?
I don't read reviews BEFORE I read a book, I learnt a powerful lesson when I used so don't anymore, but I will read a few AFTER I've read a book, but before I write my review, just to see what others thought about it. One review I found says they didn't love it, because of the slow burn romance.
But guess what?? Thats precisely why I DID love it! It's a slow, sweet romance, thats comes out of nowhere for both Roddy and Sean. There is no instalove here, no immediate and powerful attraction. No break ups and make up. Just an abusive father, and a kiddo needing looking after, and a car that really needs a new home!
What is here though, is a beautifully told love story, across the backdrop between Christmas and New Year. I love the way it grows, it blooms along in a slow, yes, its a very slow pace, but I think here that is needed. It grows quickly into the PROTECT need Sean has, that floors him but he goes with it, he runs with it, and Roddy, the sweet kiddo that he is, revels in the attention.
Roddy's dad has been drinking more since his mum left 2 years ago, Roddy felt abandoned by that. Sean giving the slightest bit of attention draws Roddy into Sean's circle, his life. Staying with Sean when Roddy's dad is arrested for drink driving, seems the best thing, since Sean suggested it. But Roddy isn't quite sure, other than loving the attention, what this growing feeling is he has for Sean.
I LOVED that there is very little *action* here. LOVED it. Would have loved it had it been totally clean. It isn't, but very nearly is. I mean, don't get me wrong, I adore the sexier books, and I won't apologise for that, but HERE? It's not about the sex between these two men, it's about the love that can sweep in and wack you upside the head when you least expect. Its about the feeling of finding something, some place, some ONE for you to call home with.
What this is, and I will repeat myself, is a beautifully written, beautifully told, love story. It says 200 odd pages but honestly, it didn't feel that long, only took me hour and a half to read. I was fully engrossed and engaged from start to finish.
This has to be my favourite Ms North book!
5 full and shiny stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
February 12, 2021
The author managed to end The Little Matchboy on an upnote, which is great considering the original tale is super depressing. Like, SUPER depressing. But, the author also stayed true to the overall theme. So, it is, by nature, not a book full of happy fun times.
That aside, the characters are so good. I liked them all (not Roddy's father, obviously, screw that guy), but everyone else. I don't know how much I fully bought into Roddy and Sean though. I've read this author's books before and she kills it with the connections between her MC's, I wasn't really feeling it with Roddy and Sean in the same way though. And probably having the bar set so high previously (hello Hemingway's Notebook), I over expected.
The ending was everything Roddy deserved, Sean too, so I was pretty happy all in all.
That aside, the characters are so good. I liked them all (not Roddy's father, obviously, screw that guy), but everyone else. I don't know how much I fully bought into Roddy and Sean though. I've read this author's books before and she kills it with the connections between her MC's, I wasn't really feeling it with Roddy and Sean in the same way though. And probably having the bar set so high previously (hello Hemingway's Notebook), I over expected.
The ending was everything Roddy deserved, Sean too, so I was pretty happy all in all.
November 19, 2020
I always know I’m going to get a good read when I pick up a Jackie North book and this was no different. I loved Sean and Roddy’s story and thought the way the author brought it in elements of The Little Matchboy but in a contemporary setting was nicely done. I also liked Alex and Cory, and loved how their part in the story was way more than a cameo.
I also loved the references to other books by this author. I love easter eggs like that.
I thought Roddy and Sean’s friendship and relationship was very sweet. I loved how Sean wants to protect Roddy yet is being very careful not to step over any lines unless Roddy wants to. Roddy’s unsureness whether his attraction to Sean means he’s gay is very endearing.
Princess, Sean’s old Buick, needs a mention too. She’s very much a character in her own right. I thought Bygone Echoes was a very cool name for an antique shop.
Roddy’s father comes across as the total horrible person he is, yet there is a hint that he’s turned away, and to drink because of the way his life has turned out. No excuse! But I thought the author did a great job in showing him as more than just what’s on the surface. It says a lot for Roddy in that he’s survived being with his father for so long.
I loved the family feel, and close friendship between Sean and Alex, and by extension, Cody, and the way they welcomed Roddy into their circle. I liked how Roddy wants to be there for Sean, as well as vice versa. The epilogue was a lovely glimpse into their HEA.
I also loved the references to other books by this author. I love easter eggs like that.
I thought Roddy and Sean’s friendship and relationship was very sweet. I loved how Sean wants to protect Roddy yet is being very careful not to step over any lines unless Roddy wants to. Roddy’s unsureness whether his attraction to Sean means he’s gay is very endearing.
Princess, Sean’s old Buick, needs a mention too. She’s very much a character in her own right. I thought Bygone Echoes was a very cool name for an antique shop.
Roddy’s father comes across as the total horrible person he is, yet there is a hint that he’s turned away, and to drink because of the way his life has turned out. No excuse! But I thought the author did a great job in showing him as more than just what’s on the surface. It says a lot for Roddy in that he’s survived being with his father for so long.
I loved the family feel, and close friendship between Sean and Alex, and by extension, Cody, and the way they welcomed Roddy into their circle. I liked how Roddy wants to be there for Sean, as well as vice versa. The epilogue was a lovely glimpse into their HEA.
January 5, 2021
The retelling of ‘The Little Matchgirl’ (originally a fairy tale by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen) had me curious how Jackie North would manage to take a tragic tale and make it a more modern, hopefully happier story. Yes, there are elements of hope in the original version, but to me, a little girl dying in the cold because her father is a monster, no matter how happy she is in heaven, is not an enjoyable story. Jackie North has done an excellent job taking parts of the original plot, like the ogre of an abusive father and the freezing cold winter, as background to a modern-day slow-burn romance that had me close to tears more than once.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 28, 2020
I quite liked this story with its sadness, frustrations, and the tenderness of two men finding who they need. There wasn't any steam to speak of and sometimes I think this is more a deep, abiding affection rather than a romantic love, but the men truly work together.
January 21, 2021
I liked the book. I found it interesting that there's cameos of Ziggy's diner (from the love across time series) and Cory and Alex (from hot chocolate kisses). I wish we'd seen the characters from the first and last books of the love across time books, as they happen in the same city and they have to do with the antique store that Roddy runs.
I'm not sure how I feel about the character chemistry, but I do like them individually.
I'm not sure how I feel about the character chemistry, but I do like them individually.
March 29, 2021
An updated take on "The Little Matchgirl."
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A well written male version of "The Little Matchgirl" that deals with Roddy, the abused son of a despicable drunken father/antique(mostly broken phones and run-down furniture) store and Sean, an auto mechanic in town from Chicago to visit his best friend for a few days.
After staying with Matt and Cory couch surfing, Sean grows weary of their constant PDA and moves into an apartment across from Roddy's store and home. He witnesses the abuse heaped upon the 20 year old by his "father" and intervenes. Roddy, who is not certain of his sexuality, sees Sean as his rescuer. Sean does not feel the same way and plans to leave town after his car, named "Princess," is repaired.
After Sean takes Roddy to Matt and Cory's home for a decent home cooked meal, the two protagonists find themselves in Roddy's dreadful and cold apartment packing a few of the young man's meager belongings to stay with Sean in his apartment. By now, both have begun to experience feelings for each other, but neither of certain of those feelings and how to deal with them.
Roddy discovers a pile of past due notices on the kitchen table and realizes his father has not been paying them. Instead, he spends their small income on alcohol for himself. Roddy doesn't even have any food in the apartment to eat.
Now packed, Sean heads to his apartment to ready a place for Roddy to sleep. While Roddy is alone, his father comes walking in, drunk. He begins to beat Roddy with a 2x4 until Sean bursts in and punches the abusive man square in his face, rendering him unconscious. The police arrive and take both MCs into custody.
Luckily, the police know about the abuse Roddy takes and although his father is in a coma in the hospital with a concussion and having suffered a stroke, they release both men. It turns out that Roddy's father had hit an elderly pedestrian while driving home, drunk, that night. The police charge him with numerous offenses and send him to jail once he recovers.
This leaves Roddy basically homeless. Sean receives bad news that Princess has a cracked engine block and requires a new engine. A well-to-do man and his grandson make Sean an offer for the car, and over extremely mixed feelings, sells his "baby" to the man for $30,000. Sean realizes, from hearing the grandfather and grandson excitedly discussing plans on restoring the car to only be utilized as a show car in parades and shows that he made the correct choice. Putting the man's check in his jacket pocket, Sean heads back to his apartment, dejected but also feeling positive.
When Sean informs Roddy he sold Princess, Roddy is both ecstatic and depressed. Ecstatic that Sean may not leave town and depressed that he still may. Sean quells his insecurities by telling him that they are in this together and that he wants to remain in town with Roddy in his life.
They discover that the check from the grandfather was not written for $30,000, but $40,000! Together with the money Roddy received from the deposit on the apartment, the sale of the shop's contents and a small amount his father begrudgingly gave him, the two begin their lives together in a small apartment close to Max and Cory. Roddy goes back to college and Sean goes to work for Buzz, the mechanic who tried to fix his car. He also reenters college to learn to be an architect, a longtime dream of his.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were evenly developed, the plot was smooth and the heat level was not rushed. There were approximately 6 editing mistakes, but the strength of the story and writing allowed me to still bestow 4 solid stars for this very recommendable book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A well written male version of "The Little Matchgirl" that deals with Roddy, the abused son of a despicable drunken father/antique(mostly broken phones and run-down furniture) store and Sean, an auto mechanic in town from Chicago to visit his best friend for a few days.
After staying with Matt and Cory couch surfing, Sean grows weary of their constant PDA and moves into an apartment across from Roddy's store and home. He witnesses the abuse heaped upon the 20 year old by his "father" and intervenes. Roddy, who is not certain of his sexuality, sees Sean as his rescuer. Sean does not feel the same way and plans to leave town after his car, named "Princess," is repaired.
After Sean takes Roddy to Matt and Cory's home for a decent home cooked meal, the two protagonists find themselves in Roddy's dreadful and cold apartment packing a few of the young man's meager belongings to stay with Sean in his apartment. By now, both have begun to experience feelings for each other, but neither of certain of those feelings and how to deal with them.
Roddy discovers a pile of past due notices on the kitchen table and realizes his father has not been paying them. Instead, he spends their small income on alcohol for himself. Roddy doesn't even have any food in the apartment to eat.
Now packed, Sean heads to his apartment to ready a place for Roddy to sleep. While Roddy is alone, his father comes walking in, drunk. He begins to beat Roddy with a 2x4 until Sean bursts in and punches the abusive man square in his face, rendering him unconscious. The police arrive and take both MCs into custody.
Luckily, the police know about the abuse Roddy takes and although his father is in a coma in the hospital with a concussion and having suffered a stroke, they release both men. It turns out that Roddy's father had hit an elderly pedestrian while driving home, drunk, that night. The police charge him with numerous offenses and send him to jail once he recovers.
This leaves Roddy basically homeless. Sean receives bad news that Princess has a cracked engine block and requires a new engine. A well-to-do man and his grandson make Sean an offer for the car, and over extremely mixed feelings, sells his "baby" to the man for $30,000. Sean realizes, from hearing the grandfather and grandson excitedly discussing plans on restoring the car to only be utilized as a show car in parades and shows that he made the correct choice. Putting the man's check in his jacket pocket, Sean heads back to his apartment, dejected but also feeling positive.
When Sean informs Roddy he sold Princess, Roddy is both ecstatic and depressed. Ecstatic that Sean may not leave town and depressed that he still may. Sean quells his insecurities by telling him that they are in this together and that he wants to remain in town with Roddy in his life.
They discover that the check from the grandfather was not written for $30,000, but $40,000! Together with the money Roddy received from the deposit on the apartment, the sale of the shop's contents and a small amount his father begrudgingly gave him, the two begin their lives together in a small apartment close to Max and Cory. Roddy goes back to college and Sean goes to work for Buzz, the mechanic who tried to fix his car. He also reenters college to learn to be an architect, a longtime dream of his.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were evenly developed, the plot was smooth and the heat level was not rushed. There were approximately 6 editing mistakes, but the strength of the story and writing allowed me to still bestow 4 solid stars for this very recommendable book. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2020
This is the third book I've read in the MM Fairy Tale Romance series, and so far my favourite. Perhaps it helped that I'm simply not as familiar with the original fairytale, and it isn't as popular a retelling, so I was able to get into it with fewer expectations? Regardless, this is an enjoyable story both in its own right and as a modern retelling of The Little Matchgirl.
Thankfully, it is also a far sweeter version - it doesn't capture quite the melancholy of the original tale, but instead provides a happier ending with a focus on more personal, rather than societal problems. A slow burn, I liked the story driven narrative that didn't feel like strung together sex scenes, and while there is some inevitable angst that can't be avoided in a tale of abuse and neglect, North works hard to make this a somehow cosy and sweetly romantic story. I found it engaging and enjoyable - the right balance of realism and fluff with a happy ending that, while arguable making this a very big departure from the fairytale, made it far more enjoyable.
Thankfully, it is also a far sweeter version - it doesn't capture quite the melancholy of the original tale, but instead provides a happier ending with a focus on more personal, rather than societal problems. A slow burn, I liked the story driven narrative that didn't feel like strung together sex scenes, and while there is some inevitable angst that can't be avoided in a tale of abuse and neglect, North works hard to make this a somehow cosy and sweetly romantic story. I found it engaging and enjoyable - the right balance of realism and fluff with a happy ending that, while arguable making this a very big departure from the fairytale, made it far more enjoyable.
November 6, 2020
Enjoyable but I didn't love it and I so wanted to. I really liked Roddy and Sean but their relationship felt more platonic than romantic and the romance itself took an age to get to.
Characters from another Christmas series appear and it wasn't until I re-read the blurb that I remembered them, (it's been a year) but that nagging feeling made me feel like I'd come in on a series without realising it.
All little issues that did spoil things a bit for me, however the writing was solid, the characters fleshed out well and the plot was interesting
Characters from another Christmas series appear and it wasn't until I re-read the blurb that I remembered them, (it's been a year) but that nagging feeling made me feel like I'd come in on a series without realising it.
All little issues that did spoil things a bit for me, however the writing was solid, the characters fleshed out well and the plot was interesting
November 10, 2020
Love this well written fast reading romance by Jackie North, it is such a wonderful addition to the MM Fairy Tale series and a great way to spend a evening reading this sweet story. When Tate left Chicago to check on his friend Alex who left under mysterious circumstances he never expected to meet Roddy who is possibly the love of his life, but only time will tell.
November 14, 2020
The Little Matchgirl is the fourth book in a series of 6 modern MM fairytale retellings by 6 different authors. The Little Matchboy is a modern MM Little Matchgirl retelling with a HEA and written by Jackie North. I loved the story of Sean and Roddy.Their story was sweet and very well written. If you love (modern) fairytale retellings or just love sweet romances this one is for you.
October 5, 2023
Very sweet, very slow burn, very light steam. This probably would have been only a 4☆ read for me if I hadn't found it immediately after reading Hot Chocolate Kisses, but the two stories back-to-back, with Cory's and Alex's friendship playing such a huge role in this one, felt like a warm winter hug. 🥰
December 13, 2021
Let me start by saying that I don't think that I have ever read a sentence that was 57 words long! Yes, one of the sentences has 57 words in it... *headdesk* ;p
As for the story, poor Roddy! Sean has no clue that he and Princess were riding in to rescue the "kid" that he was meant to spend the rest of his life with... but he found out real quick!
I will admit that the only thing I ever notice about a vehicle is what color it is and if all of my tools or art supplies will fit into it when I need to haul them around... but, I cried along with Sean over Princess. *sniff*
The sad truth is that there really are people like Roddy's dad in this world and the innocent always suffer. Some with addictions can be helped with love and therapy, but others just can't be helped or will refuse to accept your love. Sadly, such is life. :(
It was good to visit with Cory and Alex and it was hilarious to see their affection for each other through Sean's eyes... the poor man truly suffered! *grin*
As for this author's writing style... we will just have to agree that it is just NOT for me, but a good story can go a long way to making me look over all of that "flowery prose" that Ms. North is determined to put in her books! *headdesk* LOL!!!
As for the story, poor Roddy! Sean has no clue that he and Princess were riding in to rescue the "kid" that he was meant to spend the rest of his life with... but he found out real quick!
I will admit that the only thing I ever notice about a vehicle is what color it is and if all of my tools or art supplies will fit into it when I need to haul them around... but, I cried along with Sean over Princess. *sniff*
The sad truth is that there really are people like Roddy's dad in this world and the innocent always suffer. Some with addictions can be helped with love and therapy, but others just can't be helped or will refuse to accept your love. Sadly, such is life. :(
It was good to visit with Cory and Alex and it was hilarious to see their affection for each other through Sean's eyes... the poor man truly suffered! *grin*
As for this author's writing style... we will just have to agree that it is just NOT for me, but a good story can go a long way to making me look over all of that "flowery prose" that Ms. North is determined to put in her books! *headdesk* LOL!!!
December 10, 2020
’The Little Matchboy’ is positively addictive, just one more chapter, and another, and another. No one portrays the common decency of marginalized, hard-bitten men as well as Jackie North.
Her view of mankind buoys my faith.
Sean is a mechanic who learned toughness on the streets of Chicago. For New Year’s vacation, he drives to visit his best friend Alex, who moved to Colorado and found love. Alex knows Sean is a contradiction. “You look like you could rip my head off, Alex would say…But you’re as gentle as a butterfly.” The hallmark of an author’s perceptiveness is their ability to depict people’s contrasting aspects.
Because Sean’s car needs lengthy repairs before he can return home, and to avoid Alex’s non-stop cooing with his new boyfriend, Sean rents an apartment. Across the street is a shop where he saw a young man abused by his father. Roddy is accustomed to his father’s violence. Since Roddy’s mom left two years earlier, dad’s drinking and assaults have increased. Never-the-less, Roddy honors his duty to care for his dad and the family shop. “Family was family, right?… But sometimes it was hard, just so freaking hard.”
Against his will, Sean’s protectiveness is aroused, bit by bit. After all, his own journey lets him recognize Roddy’s dignity and grit. Soon he wonders whether he really wants to return to Chicago. But is Roddy gay? And could Sean ever drop his hard-earned guard sufficiently to adapt to small-town life?
‘
Roddy’s ambivalence is portrayed with equal complexity. “‘No,’ said Roddy, with a gulp. ‘I’m scared. I’m trying not to be but I am.’” In plain language that realistically conveys the sometimes brilliant thoughts of simple men, Ms. North made me fall in love with Roddy and Sean.
Jackie North doesn’t rush to a pat conclusion. Romance readers know where the couple is headed. “His eyes were on Sean like he was a gift he didn’t realize he was allowed to open. Sean had never been considered a gift before, and it was hard to know what to do with the warmth that eased inside of him.” And though this is a page-turner, Ms. North’s meandering path to get these men together makes them three-dimensional. At each choice point, they act precisely as I would expect, like Sean’s hesitance to get involved with Roddy’s plight, or to give up Chicago.
The Little Matchboy has a town full of atmosphere, interesting side-characters, and lots of mouth-watering food. This end-of-year novel is as deliciously filling as homemade soup, and as sweet as chocolate chip cookies. You’ll want more and more.
Sean is a mechanic who learned toughness on the streets of Chicago. For New Year’s vacation, he drives to visit his best friend Alex, who moved to Colorado and found love. Alex knows Sean is a contradiction. “You look like you could rip my head off, Alex would say…But you’re as gentle as a butterfly.” The hallmark of an author’s perceptiveness is their ability to depict people’s contrasting aspects.
Because Sean’s car needs lengthy repairs before he can return home, and to avoid Alex’s non-stop cooing with his new boyfriend, Sean rents an apartment. Across the street is a shop where he saw a young man abused by his father. Roddy is accustomed to his father’s violence. Since Roddy’s mom left two years earlier, dad’s drinking and assaults have increased. Never-the-less, Roddy honors his duty to care for his dad and the family shop. “Family was family, right?… But sometimes it was hard, just so freaking hard.”
Against his will, Sean’s protectiveness is aroused, bit by bit. After all, his own journey lets him recognize Roddy’s dignity and grit. Soon he wonders whether he really wants to return to Chicago. But is Roddy gay? And could Sean ever drop his hard-earned guard sufficiently to adapt to small-town life?
‘
Roddy’s ambivalence is portrayed with equal complexity. “‘No,’ said Roddy, with a gulp. ‘I’m scared. I’m trying not to be but I am.’” In plain language that realistically conveys the sometimes brilliant thoughts of simple men, Ms. North made me fall in love with Roddy and Sean.
Jackie North doesn’t rush to a pat conclusion. Romance readers know where the couple is headed. “His eyes were on Sean like he was a gift he didn’t realize he was allowed to open. Sean had never been considered a gift before, and it was hard to know what to do with the warmth that eased inside of him.” And though this is a page-turner, Ms. North’s meandering path to get these men together makes them three-dimensional. At each choice point, they act precisely as I would expect, like Sean’s hesitance to get involved with Roddy’s plight, or to give up Chicago.
The Little Matchboy has a town full of atmosphere, interesting side-characters, and lots of mouth-watering food. This end-of-year novel is as deliciously filling as homemade soup, and as sweet as chocolate chip cookies. You’ll want more and more.
November 12, 2020
Can a visit to a friend save two lives?
That is the question presented in this retelling of The Matchbox Girl but with such a lovely twist.
Sean has come from Chicago to Harlin to visit his friend Alex and Alex's love Cory. While the 3 walk the city's streets checking out the holiday offerings Sean spies a young man, Roddy, shivering in the cold while he attempts to sell his so-called antiques and collectibles. He feels empathy for Roddy, shows interest in an item, but Roddy accidentally breaks the glass object. Out of the store comes Roddy's dad ready to give him grief. This is where Sean's soft heart comes into play and he takes the blame for breaking the glass object. Sean gets the definite vibe that this won't satisfy Roddy's dad. As the story progresses these two men acknowledge their mutual attraction, but both have other emotions to come into play before realizing just how well their lives would be if combined into one of being together. There is angst a plenty from a drunkard of a dad who won't accept Roddy's efforts to keep their 2 person family together. The dad's final rejection is so sad but Sean and Roddy's vital emotions create a beautiful solution to finally cement their lives together. This is such a wonderful interpretation of the classic and one that I truly enjoyed reading. This is what I'm writing truthfully and honestly for the ARC I received.
That is the question presented in this retelling of The Matchbox Girl but with such a lovely twist.
Sean has come from Chicago to Harlin to visit his friend Alex and Alex's love Cory. While the 3 walk the city's streets checking out the holiday offerings Sean spies a young man, Roddy, shivering in the cold while he attempts to sell his so-called antiques and collectibles. He feels empathy for Roddy, shows interest in an item, but Roddy accidentally breaks the glass object. Out of the store comes Roddy's dad ready to give him grief. This is where Sean's soft heart comes into play and he takes the blame for breaking the glass object. Sean gets the definite vibe that this won't satisfy Roddy's dad. As the story progresses these two men acknowledge their mutual attraction, but both have other emotions to come into play before realizing just how well their lives would be if combined into one of being together. There is angst a plenty from a drunkard of a dad who won't accept Roddy's efforts to keep their 2 person family together. The dad's final rejection is so sad but Sean and Roddy's vital emotions create a beautiful solution to finally cement their lives together. This is such a wonderful interpretation of the classic and one that I truly enjoyed reading. This is what I'm writing truthfully and honestly for the ARC I received.
November 10, 2020
When I saw there was a retelling of the Little Match Girl I admit that I was tempted to pass it up. That is easily one of the more depressing and sad tales out there. This one has a happy ending so don’t worry about that! Roddy’s Dad is an abusive alcoholic. He tries to keep it hidden but everyone suspects something. It is obvious that his Dad’s store is failing no matter how much he tries to keep it together. Sean is in town because he is visiting his good friend Alex and his boyfriend Cody. He is instantly drawn to help Roddy. As Roddy’s life slowly begins to fall apart around him, Sean finds himself wanting to help him more and more. The relationship between these two is so sweet and tentative at first. I loved the development of these characters. Sean slowly begins to realize that there is a lot more in this small town that could make him happy rather than back home in Chicago. Alex and Cody almost sound too good to be true. I would be interested to know if there is a story about how these two met somewhere in this author’s back catalog. This book does have its very intense moments due to the physical and emotional abuse that Roddy goes through, but he really grows as a character and becomes a much stronger young man for it. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I did read an ARC of this.
December 19, 2020
Good, but not exactly my favorite.
The story is moving, poignant and draws you in the same way sad puppy’s eyes makes you say aww, and want to cuddle said puppy until it’s well and happy. However, the situation in which both characters meet and fall in love, makes you wonder whether they are really feeling love, or just finding solace with each other, and trying to fill in the void of loneliness and despair. It made me feel like it’s love, but not the kind they think it is, not the romantic kind. But that is not the reason I deducted a star. I gave it 4 stars because of the way the story was done, in a sort of narrative way, and then kind of switches in little places to let the characters’ thoughts through ( it almost looks like the characters are talking about themselves in third person ) was confusing. Sometimes I didn’t know which one of the two main characters, Roddy or Sean, was talking or who’s point of view was I supposed to be seeing or getting. It’s not that the book is horribly written, it just has some flaws, but other than that, is a decently entertaining book. It’s the sad kind of story, but not overwhelmingly so that you can’t enjoy it, and it’s heartwarming in some ways, and makes you grateful for the things and people you have in your life. I usually don’t like or read sad stories, but I actually enjoyed this one.
The story is moving, poignant and draws you in the same way sad puppy’s eyes makes you say aww, and want to cuddle said puppy until it’s well and happy. However, the situation in which both characters meet and fall in love, makes you wonder whether they are really feeling love, or just finding solace with each other, and trying to fill in the void of loneliness and despair. It made me feel like it’s love, but not the kind they think it is, not the romantic kind. But that is not the reason I deducted a star. I gave it 4 stars because of the way the story was done, in a sort of narrative way, and then kind of switches in little places to let the characters’ thoughts through ( it almost looks like the characters are talking about themselves in third person ) was confusing. Sometimes I didn’t know which one of the two main characters, Roddy or Sean, was talking or who’s point of view was I supposed to be seeing or getting. It’s not that the book is horribly written, it just has some flaws, but other than that, is a decently entertaining book. It’s the sad kind of story, but not overwhelmingly so that you can’t enjoy it, and it’s heartwarming in some ways, and makes you grateful for the things and people you have in your life. I usually don’t like or read sad stories, but I actually enjoyed this one.
November 12, 2020
I ADORE JACKIE NORTH'S BOOKS ESPECIALLY THE TOWN OF HARLIN! Imagine my delight and happiness when she announced that she would be participating in a multi-author fairytale MM romance re-telling! She is a delightful author who writes sweet, low-angst, and HEA books with wonderful men.
I first fell in love with Harlin from her previous books in the Love Across Time series and Hot Chocolate Kisses. It was amazing re-visiting Harlin again and seeing familiar faces, Cory and Alex, from Hot Chocolate Kisses. Sean is Alex's best friend from Chicago who decides to drive across the country to small-town Harlin to visit and meet his new boyfriend. At first, Sean is uncomfortable witnessing Alex's lovey-dovey moments with Cory and all the small town vibes until he meets Roddy.
Roddy is a sweet young man who suffers from his father's abuse while trying to keep their small antique shop in business. Sean and Roddy meet one day in the shop and slowly become friends. The slow and sweet pace of their romance has all the hallmark Jackie North feels and hit me right in the heart. Such a wonderfully sweet holiday read that is well-written for everyone to enjoy! You won't regret reading this :)
I first fell in love with Harlin from her previous books in the Love Across Time series and Hot Chocolate Kisses. It was amazing re-visiting Harlin again and seeing familiar faces, Cory and Alex, from Hot Chocolate Kisses. Sean is Alex's best friend from Chicago who decides to drive across the country to small-town Harlin to visit and meet his new boyfriend. At first, Sean is uncomfortable witnessing Alex's lovey-dovey moments with Cory and all the small town vibes until he meets Roddy.
Roddy is a sweet young man who suffers from his father's abuse while trying to keep their small antique shop in business. Sean and Roddy meet one day in the shop and slowly become friends. The slow and sweet pace of their romance has all the hallmark Jackie North feels and hit me right in the heart. Such a wonderfully sweet holiday read that is well-written for everyone to enjoy! You won't regret reading this :)
November 20, 2020
Sean Drove Princess To The Rescue
Sean left Chicago in Princess, his vintage Buick and travelling at 70mph on the highway it was a bone rattling drive but he wanted to visit and check-in on his friend Alex who had left Chicago in a rush.
While walking around the town with Alex and his boyfriend Cody, Sean noticed a 'kid' standing outside Manning a stall . He looked miserable and cold and wasn't dressed for standing out in the cold weather for hours.
The kid was Roddy and his life hadn't been quite as bad upto when his mum left two years ago, his dad's drinking and violent rages had worsened and the shop was in decline. Roddy was trying to keep everything together including his classes, it was his dream to take over the shop and make it a profitable business again but his dad wouldn't listen to any of his suggestions.
Luckily for Roddy when things go from bad to worse Sean is nearby to help him, and this is where their friendship begins to deepen.
When you hit rock bottom the only place to go is up!
This is a strangers to friends to lovers romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it, they are both so sweet , and have both had rough starts in life.
Sean left Chicago in Princess, his vintage Buick and travelling at 70mph on the highway it was a bone rattling drive but he wanted to visit and check-in on his friend Alex who had left Chicago in a rush.
While walking around the town with Alex and his boyfriend Cody, Sean noticed a 'kid' standing outside Manning a stall . He looked miserable and cold and wasn't dressed for standing out in the cold weather for hours.
The kid was Roddy and his life hadn't been quite as bad upto when his mum left two years ago, his dad's drinking and violent rages had worsened and the shop was in decline. Roddy was trying to keep everything together including his classes, it was his dream to take over the shop and make it a profitable business again but his dad wouldn't listen to any of his suggestions.
Luckily for Roddy when things go from bad to worse Sean is nearby to help him, and this is where their friendship begins to deepen.
When you hit rock bottom the only place to go is up!
This is a strangers to friends to lovers romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it, they are both so sweet , and have both had rough starts in life.
November 20, 2020
This series has been an utter delight so far, and this book didn’t change that. This is the first book I’ve read by Jackie North, but now I’m curious for more. Especially since two of the characters have their own book. I love crossovers.
This story was one that tugged on my heartstrings. I loved how protective Sean becomes of Roddy. I actually enoyed the pace of their love story. I like all forms of love stories: instalove, various lengths of gradual buildup, including slow burn, etc. If the storyline calls for a more slower building steam level, anything else would come at the cost of the characters. This one was perfect. I liked that the angst levels weren’t over the top. This story felt relatable and realistic. Plus, it was a great reimaging of The Little Matchgirl.
Even though this is part of a multiauthor series, it is a stand alone. If you come to the series, looking for one particular author, I highly encourage you to try the others. I feel like you’d enjoy them all. They’re perfect for this time of year, but can be enjoyed year round.
***I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
This story was one that tugged on my heartstrings. I loved how protective Sean becomes of Roddy. I actually enoyed the pace of their love story. I like all forms of love stories: instalove, various lengths of gradual buildup, including slow burn, etc. If the storyline calls for a more slower building steam level, anything else would come at the cost of the characters. This one was perfect. I liked that the angst levels weren’t over the top. This story felt relatable and realistic. Plus, it was a great reimaging of The Little Matchgirl.
Even though this is part of a multiauthor series, it is a stand alone. If you come to the series, looking for one particular author, I highly encourage you to try the others. I feel like you’d enjoy them all. They’re perfect for this time of year, but can be enjoyed year round.
***I voluntarily accepted a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. My review reflects my own thoughts and opinions***
November 21, 2020
Roddy and Sean
I loved this retelling of The Little Matchboy (instead of girl).
Sean is visiting his friend Cory and Cory's new boyfriend Alex. He's been staying on the couch at their house but he needs a little space of his own. Alex finds Sean a bnb in town while Sean visits and his car is being fixed.
Roddy is a young man who works for his father in an "antique" (mostly junk) store. His father is an abusive alcoholic and Roddy is just trying to stay out of his father's way.
Sean and friends are walking by Roddys shop when they first meet. Sean steps in when it looks like Roddy father is going to punish him.
Roddy then becomes the object of Seans attention. Sean brings him lunch and notices all the cold hours Roddy works outside. Sean notices signs of abuse. But Sean is leaving and going back to his own life at the end of the week so there's no use getting attached.
But the heart wants what it wants. This is slow burning..Roddy's situation is just sad. Sean tries to do what he can to help.
I loved the story and the characters. It was really good.
I loved this retelling of The Little Matchboy (instead of girl).
Sean is visiting his friend Cory and Cory's new boyfriend Alex. He's been staying on the couch at their house but he needs a little space of his own. Alex finds Sean a bnb in town while Sean visits and his car is being fixed.
Roddy is a young man who works for his father in an "antique" (mostly junk) store. His father is an abusive alcoholic and Roddy is just trying to stay out of his father's way.
Sean and friends are walking by Roddys shop when they first meet. Sean steps in when it looks like Roddy father is going to punish him.
Roddy then becomes the object of Seans attention. Sean brings him lunch and notices all the cold hours Roddy works outside. Sean notices signs of abuse. But Sean is leaving and going back to his own life at the end of the week so there's no use getting attached.
But the heart wants what it wants. This is slow burning..Roddy's situation is just sad. Sean tries to do what he can to help.
I loved the story and the characters. It was really good.
August 10, 2021
This was a retelling of The Little Match Girl, another Fairy Tale I didn't know anything about. I can't say if this was a good retelling or not but I can say I really enjoyed reading it. It was sweet and sad but had a Happily Ever After that made me all kinds of happy. It was really nice to see Cory and Alex from Hot Chocolate Kisses, makes me want to read their story again.
TAGS
-- Fairy Tale retelling/Little Match Girl -- abusive father -- sweet young MC... Roddy & hard on the outside, marshmallow on the inside MC... Sean -- slow burn -- really sweet moments -- swoon worthy -- virgin/first time kissed (no full on, on page sex) -- did think it ended a bit abruptly -- wish there was more
TAGS
-- Fairy Tale retelling/Little Match Girl -- abusive father -- sweet young MC... Roddy & hard on the outside, marshmallow on the inside MC... Sean -- slow burn -- really sweet moments -- swoon worthy -- virgin/first time kissed (no full on, on page sex) -- did think it ended a bit abruptly -- wish there was more
November 8, 2020
This was a really great book full of so many emotions. Your heart breaks for what Roddy goes through with his father, but the love story that slowly develops between him and Sean is so sweet and precious. I wasn't familiar with the original Little Matchgirl fairy tale, so I looked it up to get a brief idea before I read this retelling, and I definitely like this version! I know that Alex & Cory are from a previous book of Jackie's, but they were written where it didn't matter if you read their book or not (I did not) so this can easily be a standalone.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
November 10, 2020
Really cute story! I really liked how this was more if a slow romance than just a instant love/sex connection. I enjoyed getting to know Sean and Roddy and seeing their love blossom in a more real life story. My heart broke for Roddy and at first it was hard to see him old enough to have a relationship with Sean...it felt like he was a little kid. Once we got more info on his background then I could finally see why Roddy was quite as grown up as he should have been and I loved how Sean took care of him.
November 19, 2020
I will honestly say I don’t think I ever read The Little Matchgirl fairy tale so I honestly had no baseline to compare this story to. Viewing it independent from its source, I can say that it's a well-written, angst-filled, slow burn of a love story that showcases protectiveness and healing between two men with good hearts. This is not a warm fluffy romance; there’s serious work that goes into getting Sean and Roddy to their HEA, but get there they do and it’s worth taking the trip with them.
November 22, 2020
A cute holiday spirited story which I really enjoyed but didn't quite love.
Obviously the big draw is my guilty pleasure of heavy hurt/comfort and some serious rescuing.
The mood is quite somber for big chunks of the book though - as the topic calls for, so it's not unexpected or unfitting, but not exactly your average light holiday comfort read.
And the writing is good, it really is, but it's kind of following a classic fairytale telling style and that on the one hand made it feel extra cozy to me, but on the other kept me a little distant from the characters.
Obviously the big draw is my guilty pleasure of heavy hurt/comfort and some serious rescuing.
The mood is quite somber for big chunks of the book though - as the topic calls for, so it's not unexpected or unfitting, but not exactly your average light holiday comfort read.
And the writing is good, it really is, but it's kind of following a classic fairytale telling style and that on the one hand made it feel extra cozy to me, but on the other kept me a little distant from the characters.
November 24, 2020
I was really excited about this one as The Little Matchgirl is my favorite Hans Christian Anderson tale and Jackie North does a great job in this retelling. I loved the slow burn of this novel because when we finally get to the scene between Sean and Roddy it feels worth it for the sweetness that it is. I loved all the angst in this book and how Sean is such a white knight. I loved the instachemistry between them. I enjoyed how much of a prominent role Cory and Alex had in this book because I loved them in Hot Chocolate Kisses. I absolutely recommend this book.
November 14, 2020
This was a really good retelling of The Little Matchgirl. Sean has come to Harlin, Colorado to visit and check in with his friend Alex. While he’s there he meets Roddy at his father antique stand selling wares. Sean sees Roddy’s father abusing him and tries to stop it. Roddy’s life begins to fall apart, and Sean is there to catch him. This was sooo good, heartwarming! Their relationship is sweet. Loved it! I received an advanced copy, and this is my voluntary review.
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