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If Only in My Dreams
To be home for Christmas, they must bridge the distance between them.
Charlie Yates is desperate. It’s almost Christmas and his flight home from college has been delayed. For days. Charlie promised his little sister Ava he’d be home for her first holiday season since going into remission from leukemia. Now he’s stuck on the opposite coast and someone else grabbed the last rental car. Someone he hasn’t even spoken to in four years. Someone who broke his heart.
Gavin Bloomberg’s childhood friendship with Charlie ended overnight after a day of stolen kisses. With years of resentment between them, they don’t want to be in the same room together, let alone a car. But for Ava’s sake, Gavin agrees to share the rental and drive across the country together.
As they face unexpected bumps along the road, can Charlie and Gavin pave the way to a future together?
If Only in My Dreams is a gay holiday romance from Keira Andrews featuring enemies to lovers, forced proximity, steamy first times, and of course a happy ending.
Charlie Yates is desperate. It’s almost Christmas and his flight home from college has been delayed. For days. Charlie promised his little sister Ava he’d be home for her first holiday season since going into remission from leukemia. Now he’s stuck on the opposite coast and someone else grabbed the last rental car. Someone he hasn’t even spoken to in four years. Someone who broke his heart.
Gavin Bloomberg’s childhood friendship with Charlie ended overnight after a day of stolen kisses. With years of resentment between them, they don’t want to be in the same room together, let alone a car. But for Ava’s sake, Gavin agrees to share the rental and drive across the country together.
As they face unexpected bumps along the road, can Charlie and Gavin pave the way to a future together?
If Only in My Dreams is a gay holiday romance from Keira Andrews featuring enemies to lovers, forced proximity, steamy first times, and of course a happy ending.
143 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 19, 2015
95 people are currently reading
1412 people want to read
About the author
Keira Andrews
61 books3,008 followersKeira aims for the perfect mix of character, plot, and heat in her M/M romances. She writes everything from swashbuckling pirates to heartwarming holiday escapism. Her fave tropes are enemies to lovers, age gaps, forced proximity, and passionate virgins. Although she loves delicious angst along the way, Keira guarantees happy endings!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 517 reviews
December 19, 2020
** MY # 1 CHRISTMAS READ OF 2015 **
--> And it beat out all of the 2016 competition, too, so read it! : )
Purrr-fecto!
The only way that I could've liked this book any more is if there had been puppies. And maybe chocolate. But definitely puppies. : )
I hadn't read a book that made me feel so deeply in a while now, so the effortless ease with which Keira pulled at my heart strings was a joy.
I straight-up loved 18 y.o. Charlie, whose concern for his 8 y.o. sister's leukemia was so touching that his emotions practically leapt off the page and into my throat.
And I felt so deeply for 18 y.o. Gavin's regret for past mistakes and burgeoning courage to finally come out and live the life he wanted.
In the ' dick move ' department, Gavin lobbed the first volley, but Charlie also made his own mistakes where Gavin was concerned.
His voice was barely a whisper. “You shouldn’t have dumped me like that. You didn’t know anyone when you moved to Norwalk, and I was your friend.
But then you got in with Candace and the popular kids, and overnight I was nothing to you. I know you’re not… even if you didn’t like me the same way, you were still my friend.”
He took a shaky breath. “You were the best friend I ever had. No one got me the way you did.”
However, through all of their resentment and hatred toward one another, the deep connection that the boys forged at 14 held steadily to their hearts and never relented.
“Forget it. It’s fine. We need to concentrate on getting home. It was all a long time ago. It doesn’t matter now anyway, right?”Yes, it mattered. Every little thing mattered.
I looked at his Adam’s apple bob as he rubbed his hands, and my fingers itched to touch. I wasn’t even sure where, exactly. Everywhere.
I’d watched him grow up from a distance, and being next to Charlie now make me tingle all over. It mattered so much that it stole my breath.
But it took a while for them to move beyond the sins of their pasts and I thoroughly enjoyed watching every moment of that process unfold.
And when the dam holding back their long-held emotions started to crumble, God, there were so many times that I wanted to crawl onto the page and hug them both.
Charlie shifted again, moaning as he woke, and the weight of everything I’d missed out on the last four years bore down like I was plummeting to the bottom of the ocean.Other than the unlikely coincidence of how the boys ended up on their cross-country road trip together, this book was so incredibly real for me, it was truly heartbreaking and I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next.
I sprang out of bed and into the bathroom, turning on the shower full blast so he wouldn’t hear me cry.
Besides the boys working out their own feelings, the only other real source of conflict came from Gavin's parents, who were in denial when it came to their son's 'choice' of sexuality, having kids and all that being gay might entail.
“Oh, Gavin. No. It’s just not right! Children need a mother and father.”
“Children need parents who love them the way they are!”
“I think—” Dad’s voice was hoarse, and he cleared his throat. “I think we just need some time to get used to it.”
Quietly, I said, “You’ve had four years, Dad.”
But that subplot was handled well and didn't feel overly angsty.
Now, for the sex...
Holy.Some of the things that came out of these two shy boys' mouths nearly made me blush, which is saying a hell of a lot, let me tell you!
Fucking.
Hell.
Gavin asked, “Will you fuck me?” He seemed to hold his breath as the words escaped his lips.See, I told you so. : )
Gavin shuddered. “It’s been my biggest fantasy. Being… being fucked.” He flushed. “Is that weird?”
“If by weird, you mean so hot I might come all over you at the thought.”
But the book had just the right amount of sex, with each scene feeling completely necessary to plot forwarding and never tipping over the line into gratuitous.
Yep, this 140 page story ticked off every single one of my "Hell yes!" buttons and I can't recommend it enough if you're looking for a damn good holiday read.
I'm giving this one a full 5 *heart-felt-and-sexy* stars for this tale of correcting past wrongs and true love overcoming all, eventually.
-------------------------------------------
My ARC copy of the book was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
November 15, 2015
~4.5~
JEWISH MC ALERT!
Ah, now that I got THAT out of the way, let's talk about this glorious holiday story by Ms. Andrews.
Going in, I did not expect the MCs to be 18 and just finishing their first semester of college. I had a moment of sheer panic when I realized I was reading YA/NA.
Because. EIGHTEEN.
But this story worked for me on so many levels. I loved the dual first-person POV. I would have been a sad bunny had I missed out on either Charlie or Gavin's perspective.
Charlie is desperate to get home for Christmas to his family, particularly his little sister Ava, who's suffered far too much in her short eight years. He doesn't expect that his first love, the guy who broke his heart, will be the one to get him there.
Gavin, finally out to himself at least, is terrified of driving cross-country with Charlie, beautiful Charlie, whom he hasn't done right by at all.
(And last.)
This is a road-trip story and an estranged-best-friends-to-lovers story.
It's about family and second chances. And the sheer joy of a snowball fight ... and a piggyback ride.
It's about FORGIVENESS, and letting go.
In parts tender and incredibly SEXY (gay virgin, OH MY), If Only in My Dreams made my heart beat a little faster.
This one's pure joy! Don't miss out.
JEWISH MC ALERT!
Ah, now that I got THAT out of the way, let's talk about this glorious holiday story by Ms. Andrews.
Going in, I did not expect the MCs to be 18 and just finishing their first semester of college. I had a moment of sheer panic when I realized I was reading YA/NA.
Because. EIGHTEEN.
But this story worked for me on so many levels. I loved the dual first-person POV. I would have been a sad bunny had I missed out on either Charlie or Gavin's perspective.
Charlie is desperate to get home for Christmas to his family, particularly his little sister Ava, who's suffered far too much in her short eight years. He doesn't expect that his first love, the guy who broke his heart, will be the one to get him there.
Gavin, finally out to himself at least, is terrified of driving cross-country with Charlie, beautiful Charlie, whom he hasn't done right by at all.
"You're the first guy I've ever kissed. I mean ... you were back then. But you are again now. First. And second."
(And last.)
This is a road-trip story and an estranged-best-friends-to-lovers story.
It's about family and second chances. And the sheer joy of a snowball fight ... and a piggyback ride.
It's about FORGIVENESS, and letting go.
In parts tender and incredibly SEXY (gay virgin, OH MY), If Only in My Dreams made my heart beat a little faster.
We pressed against each other the way we had years ago, but now we had muscles and stubble, and I'd never felt more like a man than I did in that parking lot in Ohio.
This one's pure joy! Don't miss out.
November 28, 2015
4 Stars!!
“If Only in My Dreams” is a friends to lovers/second chance/ romance holiday story that made me smile and sigh and smile again. I love Christmas stories and if the story is sweet with some sexy scenes here and there I’m a happy reader. This story is about forgiveness, second chances and family and features two cute 18 years old boys, Charlie and Gavin who just finished their first semester of college.
Charlie Yates’s Christmas is ruined when he finds out a snowstorm had come and his flight was delayed. He desperately needs to get home on time, because he promised his little sister he will be there with her on Christmas Day. He tries to find other means of transportation, but all the trains and rental cars are also unavailable at this moment in the busiest travel season. When he finds out there’s a chance to get home because one car rental agency has a last car, he’s hopeful and happy, but his happiness is short lived when he finds out this last car has been already ranted…and ranted by whom? By the one and only Gavin Bloomberg, his former friend, the boy who won his heart for the very first time. When Gavin finds out where Charlie is heading and why, he agrees to travel together and try to make it home before Christmas.
Charlie and Gavin used to be best friends until a few kisses and some misunderstandings destroyed everything between them. Now, years later both guys had changed, they are resentful, but neither of them forgot the other.
This was my first read by this author and I quite enjoyed it! It was sweet with a few steamy hot scenes and just a little bit of angst and drama. Both Charlie and Gavin were endearing characters and even if the story was short-ish we get to know these guys pretty well. Like I mentioned above, at the beginning both of them are resentful, but as the story progresses and they get to know each other again we see how strong their connection still is. I loved how easily they interacted with each other like the four years that had passed never existed. They learn how to be friends first, they clear the air between them and they learn how to properly communicate with each other. I truly enjoyed some of these scenes. These two guys were not only sweet together and with each other, they were also tender and this tenderness warmed my heart. Like I mentioned there are also some sexy scenes between them. They were equally both sexy and emotional and honestly I wanted more. I also have to mention the special bond between Charlie and his sister, Ava, a sweet little girl who suffered from leukemia and who now is in remission. They were so great with each other.
Overall, a great and sweet Christmas story!
“If Only in My Dreams” is a friends to lovers/second chance/ romance holiday story that made me smile and sigh and smile again. I love Christmas stories and if the story is sweet with some sexy scenes here and there I’m a happy reader. This story is about forgiveness, second chances and family and features two cute 18 years old boys, Charlie and Gavin who just finished their first semester of college.
Charlie Yates’s Christmas is ruined when he finds out a snowstorm had come and his flight was delayed. He desperately needs to get home on time, because he promised his little sister he will be there with her on Christmas Day. He tries to find other means of transportation, but all the trains and rental cars are also unavailable at this moment in the busiest travel season. When he finds out there’s a chance to get home because one car rental agency has a last car, he’s hopeful and happy, but his happiness is short lived when he finds out this last car has been already ranted…and ranted by whom? By the one and only Gavin Bloomberg, his former friend, the boy who won his heart for the very first time. When Gavin finds out where Charlie is heading and why, he agrees to travel together and try to make it home before Christmas.
Charlie and Gavin used to be best friends until a few kisses and some misunderstandings destroyed everything between them. Now, years later both guys had changed, they are resentful, but neither of them forgot the other.
This was my first read by this author and I quite enjoyed it! It was sweet with a few steamy hot scenes and just a little bit of angst and drama. Both Charlie and Gavin were endearing characters and even if the story was short-ish we get to know these guys pretty well. Like I mentioned above, at the beginning both of them are resentful, but as the story progresses and they get to know each other again we see how strong their connection still is. I loved how easily they interacted with each other like the four years that had passed never existed. They learn how to be friends first, they clear the air between them and they learn how to properly communicate with each other. I truly enjoyed some of these scenes. These two guys were not only sweet together and with each other, they were also tender and this tenderness warmed my heart. Like I mentioned there are also some sexy scenes between them. They were equally both sexy and emotional and honestly I wanted more. I also have to mention the special bond between Charlie and his sister, Ava, a sweet little girl who suffered from leukemia and who now is in remission. They were so great with each other.
Overall, a great and sweet Christmas story!
November 23, 2015
Oh! I just love this. I’ve always been a sucker for stories of second-chances. But it’s quite a different reading experience when the premise is an unacknowledged first love.
There’s an added layer of angst and vulnerability to the characters – with all the what-ifs and if-onlys. But there’s also that pronounced excitement for the coveted oxymoronic rekindling – familiar and new – which you don’t get to feel from established couples.
Factor in innocent, juvenile longings and that holiday feel, and you’ve got a story which will surely warm you up in the cold of winter.
Charlie and Gavin had grown apart years ago. Their friendship, short lived, after a night of letting cowardice and pride get in the way. Fast forward four years later and the two not only meet again but are also forced to be in the other’s company for days, driving cross-country just to get home in time for Christmas, after every imaginable snowmageddon and fogmageddon have left airlines canceling flights left and right.
I like how the plot just flowed naturally – a bitter and unexpected reunion, several confrontations that ensued, followed by letting go and forgiveness with lots of hot make-up sex, then the promise for a bright future for these two boys. It’s quite simple, really, but the pinch of tenderness and sweetness on top of everything – from the main characters, to the endearing dialogue, Charlie’s little sister Ava, and that strong familial theme – will leave your heart soaring and your eyes impossibly wet.
A highly-recommended holiday story, indeed.
**ARC provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.**
December 3, 2015
*** 4.5 Stars ***
I went into this one with only reading a few reviews and didn't know the 2 Male characters were just 18 and almost came to a screeching halt....Y/A is not my thing at all.
But right from the start I LOVED these boys.
This is a really sweet,sexy boy on boy Romance.I'm not going to lie,I like my men who do men books to be downright rough and dirty but this totally worked for me and the fact Charlie had a bit of a dirty mouth on him didn't hurt....
Charlie is trying to get home for Christmas but due to bad weather he discovers there are no flights until December 26.He is distraught,especially as he promised his young sister who has been ill that he would be home.....
Charlie decides to rent a car only to discover that there are none available.....the last rental has been taken by someone he knows,Gavin.
Gavin,reluctantly,agrees to let them share the long journey home.
Charlie and Gavin have history...when they were 14 they kissed but due to a misunderstanding their friendship ended.
Charlie is openly Gay but Gavin is not.Over the years,however,they have never stopped thinking about each other.
So they start their long journey home, re connecting and opening up to each other about past mistakes.
This is a really enjoyable M/M book and perfect for this time of year....
I went into this one with only reading a few reviews and didn't know the 2 Male characters were just 18 and almost came to a screeching halt....Y/A is not my thing at all.
But right from the start I LOVED these boys.
This is a really sweet,sexy boy on boy Romance.I'm not going to lie,I like my men who do men books to be downright rough and dirty but this totally worked for me and the fact Charlie had a bit of a dirty mouth on him didn't hurt....
Charlie is trying to get home for Christmas but due to bad weather he discovers there are no flights until December 26.He is distraught,especially as he promised his young sister who has been ill that he would be home.....
Charlie decides to rent a car only to discover that there are none available.....the last rental has been taken by someone he knows,Gavin.
Gavin,reluctantly,agrees to let them share the long journey home.
Charlie and Gavin have history...when they were 14 they kissed but due to a misunderstanding their friendship ended.
Charlie is openly Gay but Gavin is not.Over the years,however,they have never stopped thinking about each other.
So they start their long journey home, re connecting and opening up to each other about past mistakes.
This is a really enjoyable M/M book and perfect for this time of year....
November 8, 2019
3.5 Stars
Charlie couldn’t find a rental car to go home for Christmas, he had promised his little sister to be home for opening the presents and he hated to fail her (especially with her conditions). The faith put Charlie in a car with Gavin, the only person he’d let get to him a few years ago in high school. But with the resentment between them is it possible they bridge the distance between them?
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novella. It was a quick easy read, low on angst, cute and sweet story, a good holiday read with likable characters. It’s a second chance enemies-to-lovers read. My only issue was that it couldn’t capture my whole concentration. My mind was wandering all of the places but still I had a good time reading it and hope you enjoy it as well!
Charlie couldn’t find a rental car to go home for Christmas, he had promised his little sister to be home for opening the presents and he hated to fail her (especially with her conditions). The faith put Charlie in a car with Gavin, the only person he’d let get to him a few years ago in high school. But with the resentment between them is it possible they bridge the distance between them?
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novella. It was a quick easy read, low on angst, cute and sweet story, a good holiday read with likable characters. It’s a second chance enemies-to-lovers read. My only issue was that it couldn’t capture my whole concentration. My mind was wandering all of the places but still I had a good time reading it and hope you enjoy it as well!
November 27, 2017
Cross-posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted
Charlie Yates is going to have the worst Christmas ever if he doesn’t get to Connecticut in time to see his little sister, Ava, who is now in remission from leukemia. It turns out Mother Nature is going to make Charlie’s life difficult by wreaking havoc on both coasts, forcing massive flight cancellations during one of the busiest travel times of the year. Charlie’s only alternative is to rent a car and drive cross-country. Unfortunately, Gavin Bloomberg, Charlie’s childhood friend and cause of his broken heart, has taken the last one.
This is a light, sweet romance with a little angst that is just perfect for the holidays. The alternating viewpoints mostly worked well here. I liked how the problems that caused Gavin’s and Charlie’s separation were revealed slowly, helping to maintain a sense of mystery and keeping my interest. I was thankful, though, that each chapter was headed by the main characters’ first names, because there were times I got confused and forgot who was talking.
I loved how Charlie and Gavin sorted out their problems and reconnected during their long journey. Teenagers may be much more savvy than they were in my day, but I couldn’t help feeling that they acted too maturely for their 18 years. As much as I felt their chemistry and enjoyed their sexual encounters, the dirty talk didn’t feel age-appropriate and made me squirmy.
I enjoy road trip stories and was disappointed there were so few adventures and mishaps other than a slip on the ice and a flat tire. One of my favorite scenes is when they stopped at Little America and were encouraged to participate in the Reindeer Run for charity, where Gavin (the reindeer) is blindfolded and Charlie (the sleigh) carries presents and directs Gavin toward the finish line while managing not to fall off his back.
Normally, I steer away from romances with children, but I rather enjoyed Charlie’s relationship with Ava and the family interactions which revealed a lot about his character. Ava was well drawn and her presence was brief, so don’t let that stop you from reading this.
If you enjoy stories about friendship, harmonious families, fresh starts, and the healing power of love, you won’t be disappointed.
*This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
Charlie Yates is going to have the worst Christmas ever if he doesn’t get to Connecticut in time to see his little sister, Ava, who is now in remission from leukemia. It turns out Mother Nature is going to make Charlie’s life difficult by wreaking havoc on both coasts, forcing massive flight cancellations during one of the busiest travel times of the year. Charlie’s only alternative is to rent a car and drive cross-country. Unfortunately, Gavin Bloomberg, Charlie’s childhood friend and cause of his broken heart, has taken the last one.
This is a light, sweet romance with a little angst that is just perfect for the holidays. The alternating viewpoints mostly worked well here. I liked how the problems that caused Gavin’s and Charlie’s separation were revealed slowly, helping to maintain a sense of mystery and keeping my interest. I was thankful, though, that each chapter was headed by the main characters’ first names, because there were times I got confused and forgot who was talking.
I loved how Charlie and Gavin sorted out their problems and reconnected during their long journey. Teenagers may be much more savvy than they were in my day, but I couldn’t help feeling that they acted too maturely for their 18 years. As much as I felt their chemistry and enjoyed their sexual encounters, the dirty talk didn’t feel age-appropriate and made me squirmy.
I enjoy road trip stories and was disappointed there were so few adventures and mishaps other than a slip on the ice and a flat tire. One of my favorite scenes is when they stopped at Little America and were encouraged to participate in the Reindeer Run for charity, where Gavin (the reindeer) is blindfolded and Charlie (the sleigh) carries presents and directs Gavin toward the finish line while managing not to fall off his back.
Normally, I steer away from romances with children, but I rather enjoyed Charlie’s relationship with Ava and the family interactions which revealed a lot about his character. Ava was well drawn and her presence was brief, so don’t let that stop you from reading this.
If you enjoy stories about friendship, harmonious families, fresh starts, and the healing power of love, you won’t be disappointed.
*This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
Read
November 18, 2015This is my new Christmas romance, a new adult story about two former besties turned enemies who must drive across the country together. I wanted to write a holiday story that has angst and emotion and isn't solely fluff. My goal was also to make it sexy and hot, but to include those warm and cuddly holiday feels as well. I hope I've succeeded! :)
September 12, 2016
Another great BR with Alona and special guest Giulio.
I really loved this little Christmas novella. The MCs were both adorable, the writing was top-notch, and the sex was HOT! Keira Andrews never misses!
I really loved this little Christmas novella. The MCs were both adorable, the writing was top-notch, and the sex was HOT! Keira Andrews never misses!
November 21, 2015
Charlie Yates and Gavin Bloomberg were childhood best friends and even more than that. Sadly, they had a falling out at the beginning of their junior year because of a certain incident. After four years of not speaking to one another, they meet again by a complete coincidence.
Charlie promised his little sister Ava, who's in remission from leukiemia, he'd be home for Christmas. He has to get there at all costs, so he won't break his promise, but it's not easy. His flight has been delayed due to a snowmageddon and since buses and trains are already overbooked, his only hope is to rent a vehicle. The problem is that someone has just grabbed the last one. This someone turns out to be Gavin, a guy who broke Charlie's heart and now offers him to share the rental. As much as Charlie hates this plan, he agrees.
Charlie and Gavin encounter some conflicts, however, the tension between them slowly dissipates as they let go and forget of what happened in the past. Then they open up to each other, they have fun and they have the greatest sex they ever had. At first they both also worry about their future, but it looks like it's going to shine bright.
It's a warm, sexy friends to lovers story. There's a tad of emotions which makes it even better. I loved the alternative perspectives and the told memories. The combination of the family theme and Christmas was just great in this book.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
November 21, 2024
*November 2024 update: getting in the mood for the holiday season with my favorite holiday romance on audio, my yearly re-read ☺️💖🎄*
*December 2023 update:
My favorite Christmas romance, and now listening to the audio!
(Which was awesome! Greg Boudreaux was perfect narrating Charlie and Gavin!)*
*original review 2019*
This is such a perfect Christmas story! I love it, gets me all warm inside :)
It’s Keira Andrews so it hardly can go wrong, but I loved Gavin and Charlie together. When they eventually got all the old hatred and hurt out of the way, they were really hot together, with Charlie’s dirty talk and Gavins’ insecurities. It had all the right feels for the holiday season.
*December 2023 update:
My favorite Christmas romance, and now listening to the audio!
(Which was awesome! Greg Boudreaux was perfect narrating Charlie and Gavin!)*
*original review 2019*
This is such a perfect Christmas story! I love it, gets me all warm inside :)
It’s Keira Andrews so it hardly can go wrong, but I loved Gavin and Charlie together. When they eventually got all the old hatred and hurt out of the way, they were really hot together, with Charlie’s dirty talk and Gavins’ insecurities. It had all the right feels for the holiday season.
dnf
December 16, 2019dnf @ 61%
I think I'm giving up on this author. I enjoyed the first half of the book, didn't enjoy the intimate scenes. They ruined the story for me. Again. I don't even feel like explaining why.
I think I'm giving up on this author. I enjoyed the first half of the book, didn't enjoy the intimate scenes. They ruined the story for me. Again. I don't even feel like explaining why.
November 26, 2015
I was going to cry again, so I kissed him instead and let go of the past, taking hold of joy with both hands.
This was the perfect feel good story about redemption and love and sexy times under the (metaphorical) mistletoe. Take hold of joy with both hands, my friends. :)
This was the perfect feel good story about redemption and love and sexy times under the (metaphorical) mistletoe. Take hold of joy with both hands, my friends. :)
November 18, 2015
If Only In My Dreams by Keira Andrews is a lovely friends to lovers second chance romance. Charlie and Gavin's friendship suddenly ended after sharing their first kiss during their freshman year of high school.
What I loved:
*Charlie & Gavin. They were wonderful characters full of heart and loyalty. I fell in love with them and was rooting for them the whole way.
*It's told from a dual POV.
*The supporting characters.
*The story flow was very smooth.
*Steam. It was surprisingly hot- and that Charlie sure was a dirty talker. ;)
*The way their story came together during a road trip. During that time I laughed, I teared up and grew enamored with these characters.
*It's a feel good story with a pinch of angst.
*The end. It was a strong HFN, and I actually wouldn't want a second book for them. I don't want them to suffer- and in my heart I see them happy for the rest of their lives.
This was just a great combination: Keira Andrews + Holidays + Second Chance Romance = WINNER. It was a beautiful story about love, family, being true to yourself, and forgiveness that is not to be missed. 5 Stars!
*ARC kindly provided by Keira Andrews for an honest review.
*This review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
January 1, 2022
*4th read December 2021
This story never loses it's heart, no matter how many times I read it. 💕💕
*3rd read November 2020
Just as damn adorable and lovely as the first time I read it, and exactly what I needed to read. Loved so much!! 🥰
*Reread December 2019
I had to up my rating a star. This was even more magical than it was to me the first time, and I sat up til 3am, unable to stop reading. I think I might make this story a Christmas tradition. I love it. <3
*First read December 2016
So, so sweet. All about forgiveness, acceptance and more than one kind of second chance. I loved it so much!
This story never loses it's heart, no matter how many times I read it. 💕💕
*3rd read November 2020
Just as damn adorable and lovely as the first time I read it, and exactly what I needed to read. Loved so much!! 🥰
*Reread December 2019
I had to up my rating a star. This was even more magical than it was to me the first time, and I sat up til 3am, unable to stop reading. I think I might make this story a Christmas tradition. I love it. <3
*First read December 2016
So, so sweet. All about forgiveness, acceptance and more than one kind of second chance. I loved it so much!
June 8, 2017
Basically my 3rd Keira Andrews in as many days and I could definitely continue to read another ten or twenty.
Gavin and Charlie have years of hurt, regret, and anger between them, and it just may be fortuitous that a freak storm brings them together in a race to get home in time for the holidays. As they get to know each other again, revelations surprise and spur each other into action.
For me, where Andrews shines best is in the delicious UST, often revolving around a secret, painful longing that is just waiting to be tapped, to be let loose, to have its way in every which way.
These boys may be low in age and experience but their hot quotient is off the charts. Seriously. Uh huh.
Gavin and Charlie have years of hurt, regret, and anger between them, and it just may be fortuitous that a freak storm brings them together in a race to get home in time for the holidays. As they get to know each other again, revelations surprise and spur each other into action.
For me, where Andrews shines best is in the delicious UST, often revolving around a secret, painful longing that is just waiting to be tapped, to be let loose, to have its way in every which way.
These boys may be low in age and experience but their hot quotient is off the charts. Seriously. Uh huh.
November 18, 2015
**4.5 stars**
"There was no way— no effing way!— Gavin Bloomberg and I could drive to Connecticut together. It was impossible. It was unthinkable. It was the worst idea ever.
But fuck me. It was my shot."
A road trip through Snowmageddon, two boys that used to be friends, a second chance at love and many sexy times.
This was one of the best holiday stories ever and it incorporates so many favorite themes. Enemies to lovers, second chance love, comfort-healing and a cross country road trip through a snowstorm! Yes, it's the ultimate Christmas story!
Charlie needs to be back at home for Christmas. He promised his little sister who's in remission from leukemia. Gavin got to the last rental car first and if Charlie wants to keep his promise, he 'll have to tag along.
While being trapped in the same car for days many feelings resurface. Bitterness , pent up anger for what happened 4 years ago, regret and longing for what could have been. But most of all, a burning desire for each other, love and forgiveness.
The dual POV worked amazing. Despite the fact that both of them are pretty young, their voice has the maturity of a person that has been through enough. As much as I loved Charlie, Gavin's honesty and the way he opened up to Charlie, stole my heart.
"I’d finally revealed the deep, dark real me [...]. I wasn’t a boy anymore, and I trusted Charlie completely with my truth."
And about the sexy times. Don't let their young age fool you. I expected a little smut but what I got was ...
Multiple times. It was delicious. Charlie has a filthy mouth on him and Gavin is a virgin and so eager...you get the picture.
Keira Andrews has really wowed me with her latest work. Highly recommended!
*Also posted on Gay Book Reviews.*
November 24, 2015
3.5 stars
What I liked about it:
+ ROAD TRIP!!
+ The Reindeer Run, which made me want to see a movie with it
+ The emotion feels real
+ The sibling relationship; can't help it, I loved that kind of dedication and loyalty between siblings.
+ The ending with Gavin's parents. I loved that. It wasn't easy but it was still good.
What I didn't really care about:
+ The teenagers' emo; I guess I passed that phase long time ago. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Which is why I still cannot claim young adult/new adult as my favorite genre.
+ I hated that word that Charlie used on Candance. She might be a bigger person that I was, because I wanted to smack Charlie on his mouth when he said it. No matter that at that time he lashed out because he felt hurt.
+ On that note, it took me awhile to warm up for Charlie. Good thing he was good to his sister.
+ The sex scenes -- this was definitely my issue alone. Duly noted, I usually skim sex scenes (only a handful of authors now, whose sex scenes can work for me), but the whole dirty talks with these young men turned me off even more.
What I liked about it:
+ ROAD TRIP!!
+ The Reindeer Run, which made me want to see a movie with it
+ The emotion feels real
+ The sibling relationship; can't help it, I loved that kind of dedication and loyalty between siblings.
+ The ending with Gavin's parents. I loved that. It wasn't easy but it was still good.
What I didn't really care about:
+ The teenagers' emo; I guess I passed that phase long time ago. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Which is why I still cannot claim young adult/new adult as my favorite genre.
+ I hated that word that Charlie used on Candance. She might be a bigger person that I was, because I wanted to smack Charlie on his mouth when he said it. No matter that at that time he lashed out because he felt hurt.
+ On that note, it took me awhile to warm up for Charlie. Good thing he was good to his sister.
+ The sex scenes -- this was definitely my issue alone. Duly noted, I usually skim sex scenes (only a handful of authors now, whose sex scenes can work for me), but the whole dirty talks with these young men turned me off even more.
November 24, 2023
Recommend this 💯% ❤️🎄🎅☃️🧑🎄
This was the perfect book for me, at the perfect time.
Just what I was looking for.
I fell in love with Charlie and Gavin right away.
This was sweet and touching, with amazing sex scenes to heat up the snow stormy Christmas.
A simple book really, but it still managed to become a new favourite ❤️
This was the perfect book for me, at the perfect time.
Just what I was looking for.
I fell in love with Charlie and Gavin right away.
This was sweet and touching, with amazing sex scenes to heat up the snow stormy Christmas.
A simple book really, but it still managed to become a new favourite ❤️
November 18, 2015
Definitely one of my favorite holiday reads! Ooey gooey sweetness for everyone!
Charlie is stuck in San Francisco trying to get home for Christmas. He promised his little sister Ava (who is in remission from leukemia) that he would be there to open stockings and presents on Christmas morning.
Thanks to fogmaggedon and snowmageddon, all flights are delayed. As a last ditch effort, he decides to rent a car and drive cross country to Connecticut so he can be there for Christmas. As fate would have it, the last car was just rented by his high school crush, Gavin. They haven't spoken in years, but Gavin agrees to help Charlie get home to see Ava.
I really enjoyed seeing Charlie and Gavin get over their past and get reacquainted. And their stop in Little America was hilarious!
This will definitely be an annual re-read for me during the holiday season.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
Charlie is stuck in San Francisco trying to get home for Christmas. He promised his little sister Ava (who is in remission from leukemia) that he would be there to open stockings and presents on Christmas morning.
Thanks to fogmaggedon and snowmageddon, all flights are delayed. As a last ditch effort, he decides to rent a car and drive cross country to Connecticut so he can be there for Christmas. As fate would have it, the last car was just rented by his high school crush, Gavin. They haven't spoken in years, but Gavin agrees to help Charlie get home to see Ava.
I really enjoyed seeing Charlie and Gavin get over their past and get reacquainted. And their stop in Little America was hilarious!
This will definitely be an annual re-read for me during the holiday season.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2020
”I was going to cry again, so I kissed him instead and let go of the past, taking hold of it with both hands.”
I loved reading this book. And rereading it. And rereading it again.
I loved reading this book. And rereading it. And rereading it again.
December 2, 2015
I absolutely loved this " friends to lovers/ second chance " lovestory ! It was short, sweet and surprisingly steamy ;)
Charlie and Gavin were good friends, even living in the same street, when they were 14 years old. But a shared kiss changed everything.
Now 4 years later, Charlie is stranded at the airport, because of a storm. He's desperate to get home and spend Christmas with is 8 year old sister...like he promised her. She has been sick for years and he has this feeling, that something terrible will happen, if he doesn't keep his promise.
His luck seems to chance, when Gavin turns up at the car rental place. Charlie tries to rent a car to drive home, but there are non left. Gavin rented the last one but he is willing to share the car with Charlie, so Charlie can still be home in time.
They're both not really happy about the arrangement, but Gavin knows how importent getting home is for Charlie, and Charlie...well...he doesn't have any other options.
They start their roadtrip as enemies, but soon find out, not all is at it seems. They talk, they laugh and they start to feel.
Damn these boys were cute...and hot. I was very pleasantly surprised by that ;)
I'm not really a big fan of YA, but this one was very nicely done ! I would definitaly recommend it to everyone who enjoys a sweet, hot, short mm story.
I also thought Charlie was pretty funny :))
4,5 stars from me
Charlie and Gavin were good friends, even living in the same street, when they were 14 years old. But a shared kiss changed everything.
Now 4 years later, Charlie is stranded at the airport, because of a storm. He's desperate to get home and spend Christmas with is 8 year old sister...like he promised her. She has been sick for years and he has this feeling, that something terrible will happen, if he doesn't keep his promise.
His luck seems to chance, when Gavin turns up at the car rental place. Charlie tries to rent a car to drive home, but there are non left. Gavin rented the last one but he is willing to share the car with Charlie, so Charlie can still be home in time.
They're both not really happy about the arrangement, but Gavin knows how importent getting home is for Charlie, and Charlie...well...he doesn't have any other options.
They start their roadtrip as enemies, but soon find out, not all is at it seems. They talk, they laugh and they start to feel.
Damn these boys were cute...and hot. I was very pleasantly surprised by that ;)
I'm not really a big fan of YA, but this one was very nicely done ! I would definitaly recommend it to everyone who enjoys a sweet, hot, short mm story.
I also thought Charlie was pretty funny :))
4,5 stars from me
September 10, 2022
I just love Keira Andrews. And for a holiday story, this is one of the best I've read. Charlie and Gavin were best friends when they were 14. Until they were more. And then they were nothing. And now, by chance, during SNOWmageddon, Charlie asks Gavin for a ride across country so that he can spend Christmas with his sister as he promised her.
This book had it all. Friends to lovers. Enemies to lovers. Second chances. Road trip. First time gay lovin'. (And some seriously steamy gay lovin' at that). This was an awesomely cute read!
"You're the first guy I've ever kissed. I mean, obviously you were back then. But you are again now. First. And second."
YA/NA dialogue and humor can be really immature and make me roll my eyes, clears throat Him, but this had the kind of banter that was believable for the age group, but didn't have me wanting to vomit. I laughed several times throughout this book.
Great story!
This book had it all. Friends to lovers. Enemies to lovers. Second chances. Road trip. First time gay lovin'. (And some seriously steamy gay lovin' at that). This was an awesomely cute read!
"You're the first guy I've ever kissed. I mean, obviously you were back then. But you are again now. First. And second."
YA/NA dialogue and humor can be really immature and make me roll my eyes, clears throat Him, but this had the kind of banter that was believable for the age group, but didn't have me wanting to vomit. I laughed several times throughout this book.
Great story!
February 23, 2016
4 Stars
Keira Andrews really knows how to elicit all kinds of emotions from her readers. I was expecting a light and fluffy Xmas read, with lots of romance and good time feels – and yes, there was ALL of that – but I was (stupidly) surprised by how emotional this story made me.
There was a lot going on in this story. I found myself even more involved with the relationships between Charlie and his sister and between Gavin and his parents, than I was with Charlie and Gavin as a couple! This isn’t to say I didn’t adore these boys and their tale of lost friendship, redemption and burgeoning romance, because I most certainly did, but I loved the secondary relationships just as much. I even cried during one powerful scene between Gavin and his parents.
Needless to say, this was yet another effortlessly enjoyable read by Keira Andrews.
Keira Andrews really knows how to elicit all kinds of emotions from her readers. I was expecting a light and fluffy Xmas read, with lots of romance and good time feels – and yes, there was ALL of that – but I was (stupidly) surprised by how emotional this story made me.
There was a lot going on in this story. I found myself even more involved with the relationships between Charlie and his sister and between Gavin and his parents, than I was with Charlie and Gavin as a couple! This isn’t to say I didn’t adore these boys and their tale of lost friendship, redemption and burgeoning romance, because I most certainly did, but I loved the secondary relationships just as much. I even cried during one powerful scene between Gavin and his parents.
Needless to say, this was yet another effortlessly enjoyable read by Keira Andrews.
November 28, 2015
4.5 Stars!
Super cute and sweet holiday story with a touch of spice!
Super cute and sweet holiday story with a touch of spice!
January 2, 2016
A short, sweet and super sexy read perfect for snuggling up to this holiday season!
When FOGmaggedon in San Francisco meets Snowmaggedon on the East coast, planes get grounded leaving Charlie Yates desperate to find a way home in order to keep his promise to his little sister, Ava. When there's no buses or trains running either it looks like renting a car and driving across country from San Fran to Connecticut is his only option if Charlie wants to get to Ava by Christmas morning. Unfortunately, all the cars are rented, but the last car was rented by none other than Gavin Bloomberg. The boy who broke Charlie's heart in the summer before ninth grade.
Filled with humor, heat and a bit of angst, this used-to-be-friends rekindling friendship and turning into lovers holiday story warmed the frozen cockles of my heart.
I loved how this is told from both Charlie and Gavin's perspectives so I got a front row into how their friendship first fell apart, and the ways they gradually bridge the gap, to finally coming together. Also not to be missed are the super hot and super sexy smexy times. Woot!
RECOMMENDED!
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
When FOGmaggedon in San Francisco meets Snowmaggedon on the East coast, planes get grounded leaving Charlie Yates desperate to find a way home in order to keep his promise to his little sister, Ava. When there's no buses or trains running either it looks like renting a car and driving across country from San Fran to Connecticut is his only option if Charlie wants to get to Ava by Christmas morning. Unfortunately, all the cars are rented, but the last car was rented by none other than Gavin Bloomberg. The boy who broke Charlie's heart in the summer before ninth grade.
Filled with humor, heat and a bit of angst, this used-to-be-friends rekindling friendship and turning into lovers holiday story warmed the frozen cockles of my heart.
“I love you too. Even when I told myself I hated you, I still loved you. It was always you, Gavin.” With trembling hands, he held my face and pressed kisses to my forehead, chin, both cheeks, and the tip of my nose, his lips a whisper against my skin. “Always will be.”
I loved how this is told from both Charlie and Gavin's perspectives so I got a front row into how their friendship first fell apart, and the ways they gradually bridge the gap, to finally coming together. Also not to be missed are the super hot and super sexy smexy times. Woot!
RECOMMENDED!
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 9, 2016
3,5 Stars
More X-mas fluff!^.^
More X-mas fluff!^.^
March 14, 2016
It's a winter road trip...
There are a ton of awesome reviews for this book here on GR so I'm keeping this one short and suggesting if you want more they're here just check scoot to the books page and check them out if you're not already there, if you are just keep looking or you could just dive in and read the book because it was awesome.
I think I've become a fan of books that involve road trips as this one did and I know I'm a fan of second chances something we all need and deserve. Throw in a little Christmas and you've got me hook, line and sinker.
I loved this one. Charlie and Gavin were adorable and I liked how they worked through their problems. These weren't deep emotional conversations to me they were exactly what they should be, what I would have expected from two men their age and to me they were men. Young but men none the less. The conversations ranged from I screwed up and I'm sorry and let's move on to you shouldn't have done that and I thought you were an ass for doing it but you've said you're sorry so let's move on. Sometimes a bit of introspection is nice but it's not always a requirement for a sincere apology. The acknowledgement that one's actions were wrong and regretted can be every bit as believable without all the emotional analysis and in this case it worked well for me.
I read this one because my friends Todd and Dani told me I should. They said I'd enjoy it and while Winter Oranges didn't end up being the lovefest I had hoped for in spite of it's goodness. You nailed it on this one. Maybe it was Charlie's smutty talk, lol.
There are a ton of awesome reviews for this book here on GR so I'm keeping this one short and suggesting if you want more they're here just check scoot to the books page and check them out if you're not already there, if you are just keep looking or you could just dive in and read the book because it was awesome.
I think I've become a fan of books that involve road trips as this one did and I know I'm a fan of second chances something we all need and deserve. Throw in a little Christmas and you've got me hook, line and sinker.
I loved this one. Charlie and Gavin were adorable and I liked how they worked through their problems. These weren't deep emotional conversations to me they were exactly what they should be, what I would have expected from two men their age and to me they were men. Young but men none the less. The conversations ranged from I screwed up and I'm sorry and let's move on to you shouldn't have done that and I thought you were an ass for doing it but you've said you're sorry so let's move on. Sometimes a bit of introspection is nice but it's not always a requirement for a sincere apology. The acknowledgement that one's actions were wrong and regretted can be every bit as believable without all the emotional analysis and in this case it worked well for me.
I read this one because my friends Todd and Dani told me I should. They said I'd enjoy it and while Winter Oranges didn't end up being the lovefest I had hoped for in spite of it's goodness. You nailed it on this one. Maybe it was Charlie's smutty talk, lol.
December 16, 2024
December 2024 Re-read
This was cute the second time around too! I've had a rough go with my Christmas reads this year so far, so it was nice to pop this audiobook on and enjoy Greg B reading me something I already know I like 💙
Original Review
I picked this up on a whim despite telling myself I wasn't going to start any more Christmas books until after Halloween. Clearly, that was a lie. 🤣 I blame Greg Boudreaux. I was just scrolling through Hoopla, minding my own business, when I noticed the audiobook was available. My decision to wait until after Halloween was completely abandoned. What can I say? I am weak, but I have no regrets. The story was cute, sweet, and perfectly paced for a quick Christmas-themed read. Plus, Greg Boudreaux read it to me. Solid win. 😌
This was cute the second time around too! I've had a rough go with my Christmas reads this year so far, so it was nice to pop this audiobook on and enjoy Greg B reading me something I already know I like 💙
Original Review
I picked this up on a whim despite telling myself I wasn't going to start any more Christmas books until after Halloween. Clearly, that was a lie. 🤣 I blame Greg Boudreaux. I was just scrolling through Hoopla, minding my own business, when I noticed the audiobook was available. My decision to wait until after Halloween was completely abandoned. What can I say? I am weak, but I have no regrets. The story was cute, sweet, and perfectly paced for a quick Christmas-themed read. Plus, Greg Boudreaux read it to me. Solid win. 😌
December 5, 2015
(4th X-mas read 2015 with Paul)
Lovely friends-to-lovers story. Road-trip. And Christmas themed....
Not much more to wish for!!
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