What do you think?
Rate this book
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2017 Advent Calendar collection Stocking Stuffers.
Christmas is coming, and young couple Casey and Ellis are very much in love. Unfortunately, they’re also the definition of dirt poor, and they don’t have the money for nonessentials like decorations. Or a turkey. Or gifts. Between the recent death of Casey’s beloved momma and Ellis’s estrangement from his family, all they have is each other.
When Ellis finds the saddest-looking Christmas tree south of the Mason-Dixon Line thrown away outside his workplace and brings it home to Casey, things look up. Life is still a struggle, but wealth isn’t always measured in money, and what seems worthless to others is often invaluable to the people who love it.
Christmas is coming, and young couple Casey and Ellis are very much in love. Unfortunately, they’re also the definition of dirt poor, and they don’t have the money for nonessentials like decorations. Or a turkey. Or gifts. Between the recent death of Casey’s beloved momma and Ellis’s estrangement from his family, all they have is each other.
When Ellis finds the saddest-looking Christmas tree south of the Mason-Dixon Line thrown away outside his workplace and brings it home to Casey, things look up. Life is still a struggle, but wealth isn’t always measured in money, and what seems worthless to others is often invaluable to the people who love it.
50 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2017
2 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Nell Iris
63 books97 followersNell Iris writes gay romance, prefers sweet over angsty, short over long, and quirky characters over alpha males. She published her first book in 2017.
Nell is an author with a day job that steals too much time from her writing, her reading, her gardening, and her crocheting. She’s an introverted tea drinker who loves her family, her books, and her home in the Swedish countryside.
Nell is an author with a day job that steals too much time from her writing, her reading, her gardening, and her crocheting. She’s an introverted tea drinker who loves her family, her books, and her home in the Swedish countryside.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
November 16, 2018
3.5 stars
This was very cute. I love stories about people who don’t need money to be happy and make do with what they have.
Ellis and Casey live in a trailer together. They don't have any money, but at least they have each other. They even have a (very sad) Christmas tree this year!
But when Casey sees a small present under the tree, he doesn't know what to do to make sure he gets Ellis a present too..
These guys were adorable together. I love reading about upbeat people who appreciate the small things in life.
I do have to admit that it got more and more cheesy near the end, but it was still a sweet heartwarming story, perfect for the holidays.
------------------------------
An ARC of Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
This was very cute. I love stories about people who don’t need money to be happy and make do with what they have.
Ellis and Casey live in a trailer together. They don't have any money, but at least they have each other. They even have a (very sad) Christmas tree this year!
But when Casey sees a small present under the tree, he doesn't know what to do to make sure he gets Ellis a present too..
These guys were adorable together. I love reading about upbeat people who appreciate the small things in life.
I do have to admit that it got more and more cheesy near the end, but it was still a sweet heartwarming story, perfect for the holidays.
------------------------------
An ARC of Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 2, 2020
5 Hearts!
I’ve never read Nell Iris before but this gem will definitely not be my last. Short stories are often hard to pull off because it takes time to establish background, conflict and resolution. This??? Have no worries.
I enjoy established couples as much as I love witnessing two people get together. Here, making it extra sweet is the fact that Casey and Ellis have known each other since they were kids, and through little reveals one gets a glimpse of that early bond and how much it has changed into so much more.
Casey and Ellis may be poor in material things but they are not lacking in how much they love each other. Whew! This was all sorts of hot and emotional and sentimental. It brought tears to my eyes multiple times from all the sweetness and feels. Really, just a beautifully heartfelt and very sexy story about these two trying to make the most of what little they have, appreciating the small wins, and so thankful for the other! All the points for getting such a strong reaction from me! Read!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
I’ve never read Nell Iris before but this gem will definitely not be my last. Short stories are often hard to pull off because it takes time to establish background, conflict and resolution. This??? Have no worries.
I enjoy established couples as much as I love witnessing two people get together. Here, making it extra sweet is the fact that Casey and Ellis have known each other since they were kids, and through little reveals one gets a glimpse of that early bond and how much it has changed into so much more.
Casey and Ellis may be poor in material things but they are not lacking in how much they love each other. Whew! This was all sorts of hot and emotional and sentimental. It brought tears to my eyes multiple times from all the sweetness and feels. Really, just a beautifully heartfelt and very sexy story about these two trying to make the most of what little they have, appreciating the small wins, and so thankful for the other! All the points for getting such a strong reaction from me! Read!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
November 24, 2017
~3.5~
Ellis and Casey don't have much, but they have each other. When Ellis brings home a castoff Christmas tree, Casey is thrilled. He doesn't need diamonds to be happy.
This is one of those rare established couple stories that doesn't introduce any new tension or conflict.
The men are poor but so in love. And there's hope on the horizon.
Includes a very sexy scene and an even better Christmas surprise.
Ellis and Casey don't have much, but they have each other. When Ellis brings home a castoff Christmas tree, Casey is thrilled. He doesn't need diamonds to be happy.
This is one of those rare established couple stories that doesn't introduce any new tension or conflict.
The men are poor but so in love. And there's hope on the horizon.
Includes a very sexy scene and an even better Christmas surprise.
November 21, 2017
I really wanted to like this short story more than I did, but it really wasn't quite my own personal taste, even for a holiday story.
I did enjoy their back story, knowing one another as kids, Ellis defending Casey from bullies and such. And the picture that Casey drew way back then was the highlight of the story for me.
But the writing wasn't quite what I'm used to and the never-ending fascination with Casey's waist-length red hair was really a turn off for me.
Then during the steamy bit, there was this whole thing with a 3-fingered, *DRY* prostate pegging, which... OUCH. Sorry, but if you've ever had even one unlubed digit up there, without even the joy that is spit, you'll know what I'm getting at. All the nope.
I did like seeing what was left on their porch and that their destitute status was soon to improve, but the ending was a bit too perfect and sappy sweet to be believed, especially when coupled with the "boo" endearments.
I'm sure that this story will hit the spot with a lot of other readers, but it didn't work very well for me, so I'd rate have to it at around 2.75 stars.
-----------------------------------------------
This book is *FREE* with Kindle Unlimited membership.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
-----------------------------------------------
December 19, 2017
4 Stars
Sometimes a story emotionally compromises you in the best possible way. This was one such story for me.
Casey and Ellis are the definition of dirt poor but they're also the pinnacle of young love. With no means to buy each other material things for the holidays, Casey and Ellis have to get creative, and in the process they discover that they already have all they need to make this Christmas truly memorable.
Something about Casey and Ellis' love story just resonated deep in my bones. I found the whole thing wildly romantic and heart-achingly beautiful.
This was my very first time reading a story but Nell Iris. Her writing style simply captivated me and I have no doubt I'll enjoy more of her work when the time comes.
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings is one of my personal favourite stories among this year's DSP Advent Calendar offerings.
Sometimes a story emotionally compromises you in the best possible way. This was one such story for me.
Casey and Ellis are the definition of dirt poor but they're also the pinnacle of young love. With no means to buy each other material things for the holidays, Casey and Ellis have to get creative, and in the process they discover that they already have all they need to make this Christmas truly memorable.
Something about Casey and Ellis' love story just resonated deep in my bones. I found the whole thing wildly romantic and heart-achingly beautiful.
This was my very first time reading a story but Nell Iris. Her writing style simply captivated me and I have no doubt I'll enjoy more of her work when the time comes.
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings is one of my personal favourite stories among this year's DSP Advent Calendar offerings.
December 2, 2017
Lights in the shops,
Glitter on the tree
All we need is you and me
A sweet and sexy story about what really matters :)
Glitter on the tree
All we need is you and me
A sweet and sexy story about what really matters :)
December 9, 2019
Short but incredibly sweet and surprisingly spicy festive romance from Nell Iris.
Once a Dreamspinner Press Advent Calendar issue, now re-republished but I don't believe there're any changes.
Casey and Ellis are just a wonderful pair whose happiness isn't dependent on material goods, but just by being together and I loved every bit of this story.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
Once a Dreamspinner Press Advent Calendar issue, now re-republished but I don't believe there're any changes.
Casey and Ellis are just a wonderful pair whose happiness isn't dependent on material goods, but just by being together and I loved every bit of this story.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
December 12, 2017
This is one of those “true meaning of Christmas” stories and I loved the sweet loving tone of the MCs. Poor Ellis and Casey are literally dirt poor, living in an old trailer from paycheck to paycheck. They don’t have the coin for a tree or gifts but they have each other and it’s obvious that’s the most important thing to both of them. Casey recently lost his mom, the one person who supported and loved both he and Ellis unconditionally and Ellis’s family is completely unaccepting of Ellis’s love for Casey. They obviously suck and don’t deserve to be in Ellis and Casey’s presence, but it doesn’t make the shunning any less painful to Ellis. The most touching parts of the story were the flashbacks and references to their childhood. This is a couple that was meant to be together since childhood and it’s such a rare thing in a story for that to really work and it did here. No matter how dismal the circumstances for these two I never doubted an HEA for them. Things start looking up and it wasn’t overdone, so it was believable and damn if these two didn’t have some hot chemistry as well. And the heat didn’t kill the sweet, the balance worked really well especially for a short story. It gave the characters and their relationship depth that kept the story from being saccharine and kept it real.
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
**copies of the DSP Advent Calendar were provided in exchange for honest reviews**
December 19, 2021
I’ve been lucky (maybe good?) this year. This is the second advent story I’ve read this year and they have both been amazing (The first one being Finding Yuletide Karol). I didn’t read the blurb before i picked this book up. I heard some of my fellow reviewers raving about it, how good it was and decided I needed to know too. And boy am I glad I did, because what an amazing story this was.
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings was originally part of the advent collection of a couple of years ago, but has now been re-released independently. This story was so beautiful, touching and moving. It was sad yet so full of hope at the same time. It’s a story that will make you appreciate what you have – and not the material things. The people you love. The people who love you. The small things in life that mean so much and enable us to change the world.
It’s as plain as day (well summer days, as these days are all mud grey, rainy and dark) to see that Casey and Ellis love each other. That they belong to each other. They also knew how lucky they were to have that love, the importance of it. They knew what really mattered in life. And it wasn’t the turkey dinner they couldn’t afford to make or buy, or gifts under the tree – which they also couldn’t afford. They didn’t have much, but they had each other, and they were genuinely and truly happy.
Just before Christmas Ellis brings home the saddest tree known to man, a tree destined for the recycling bin. It was crooked, scrawny and already starting to lose its needles. But it was a tree, it smelled like Christmas and to them it was the most beautiful tree ever. I too loved that tree. It symbolised so much, not the least that it’s the gestures that counts. Watching them watching their tree decorated with red popcorn strings in awe was, I have to say humbling and beautiful. I could see them before me lying there on the floor watching, basking.
I loved that Christmas tree, it symbolised so much, for them, but also in general. And it also made me long for a tree of my very own. There’s something about that smell that gets me every time. This book showed us what’s most important during Christmas – spending it with someone you love. It was beyond beautiful, and if this story doesn’t get you into holiday spirits (and melt your heart) I don’t know what will.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings was originally part of the advent collection of a couple of years ago, but has now been re-released independently. This story was so beautiful, touching and moving. It was sad yet so full of hope at the same time. It’s a story that will make you appreciate what you have – and not the material things. The people you love. The people who love you. The small things in life that mean so much and enable us to change the world.
It’s as plain as day (well summer days, as these days are all mud grey, rainy and dark) to see that Casey and Ellis love each other. That they belong to each other. They also knew how lucky they were to have that love, the importance of it. They knew what really mattered in life. And it wasn’t the turkey dinner they couldn’t afford to make or buy, or gifts under the tree – which they also couldn’t afford. They didn’t have much, but they had each other, and they were genuinely and truly happy.
Just before Christmas Ellis brings home the saddest tree known to man, a tree destined for the recycling bin. It was crooked, scrawny and already starting to lose its needles. But it was a tree, it smelled like Christmas and to them it was the most beautiful tree ever. I too loved that tree. It symbolised so much, not the least that it’s the gestures that counts. Watching them watching their tree decorated with red popcorn strings in awe was, I have to say humbling and beautiful. I could see them before me lying there on the floor watching, basking.
I loved that Christmas tree, it symbolised so much, for them, but also in general. And it also made me long for a tree of my very own. There’s something about that smell that gets me every time. This book showed us what’s most important during Christmas – spending it with someone you love. It was beyond beautiful, and if this story doesn’t get you into holiday spirits (and melt your heart) I don’t know what will.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
December 17, 2017
3.5 stars
A sweet holiday short -- Ellis and Casey has been together for quite a while, even if they're poor but they get each other. Things may not have been pretty good for a while: Casey's mom recently passed away, and Ellis is not in good terms with his family who will not accept Casey. But it seems that it will be better next year when they get a couple of good news.
I really liked it, but also because it's short I felt like missing a lot of important moments in their relationship progress.
A sweet holiday short -- Ellis and Casey has been together for quite a while, even if they're poor but they get each other. Things may not have been pretty good for a while: Casey's mom recently passed away, and Ellis is not in good terms with his family who will not accept Casey. But it seems that it will be better next year when they get a couple of good news.
I really liked it, but also because it's short I felt like missing a lot of important moments in their relationship progress.
December 8, 2019
3.5 stars rounded down to 3 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR.
It's the gifts from the heart, that are truly priceless...
'Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings' is a re-release from 2017's DSP Advent Calendar. Other than a new cover I'm not really sure how much if anything has changed. The story seems to be about the same length as it's previously release.
Casey and Ellis may not have much but they know how to make the most of what they have and appreciate it. It hasn't been the greatest year for Casey. He's lost his mom and she was the one person aside from Ellis, that he knew he could count on and who approved of his relationship with Ellis without reservation.
While the author did a super job of giving us a fair bit of Casey and Ellis's background through their memories...especially Casey's. I would have enjoyed it even more if there'd been a bit more story that happened both before and after the holiday...specifically after. I would have loved finding out how things went when Casey started his new job and maybe something more between Ellis and his sister. While her gift to them was sweet, I would have enjoyed seeing more...what can I say when it comes to short stories it's quite often the story of my life I want more. It's also indicative of the fact that I'm liking what I've gotten since I'm saying 'I want more' rather than 'the best thing about this story was that it was short'.
"Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings" is not my first time reading a story by this author and the one thing that I can say about all of her stories is that she creates characters that I would love to have more of. From Iggy and Wilkin in 'Awakenings and French Songs to the men in 'Of Autumn Leaves and New Beginnings' or 'Promises Me We'll be Ok' and now here in 'Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings', Nell Iris has created characters that are interesting and memorable, leaving the reader wanting more...not because the story's incomplete but because it captures both the attention and the reader's heart.
From the Charlie Brown Christmas tree to their heartfelt Christmas gifts to each other. Casey and Ellis's story is a warm and heartfelt reminder for us all what the true blessings of the season and every day of the year should be.
*************************
A copy of 'Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
It's the gifts from the heart, that are truly priceless...
'Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings' is a re-release from 2017's DSP Advent Calendar. Other than a new cover I'm not really sure how much if anything has changed. The story seems to be about the same length as it's previously release.
Casey and Ellis may not have much but they know how to make the most of what they have and appreciate it. It hasn't been the greatest year for Casey. He's lost his mom and she was the one person aside from Ellis, that he knew he could count on and who approved of his relationship with Ellis without reservation.
While the author did a super job of giving us a fair bit of Casey and Ellis's background through their memories...especially Casey's. I would have enjoyed it even more if there'd been a bit more story that happened both before and after the holiday...specifically after. I would have loved finding out how things went when Casey started his new job and maybe something more between Ellis and his sister. While her gift to them was sweet, I would have enjoyed seeing more...what can I say when it comes to short stories it's quite often the story of my life I want more. It's also indicative of the fact that I'm liking what I've gotten since I'm saying 'I want more' rather than 'the best thing about this story was that it was short'.
"Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings" is not my first time reading a story by this author and the one thing that I can say about all of her stories is that she creates characters that I would love to have more of. From Iggy and Wilkin in 'Awakenings and French Songs to the men in 'Of Autumn Leaves and New Beginnings' or 'Promises Me We'll be Ok' and now here in 'Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings', Nell Iris has created characters that are interesting and memorable, leaving the reader wanting more...not because the story's incomplete but because it captures both the attention and the reader's heart.
From the Charlie Brown Christmas tree to their heartfelt Christmas gifts to each other. Casey and Ellis's story is a warm and heartfelt reminder for us all what the true blessings of the season and every day of the year should be.
*************************
A copy of 'Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 2, 2019
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings is the story of Casey and Ellis, a young couple very much in love, but also very poor. The story is told in third person through both their eyes.
This sweet Christmas story presents the idea that no matter how poor a person is, love and having someone to love you back, is enough. People can make do with the bare minimum and it’s good enough.
Casey and Ellis live in a trailer home in a town that doesn’t look kindly on gays, let alone gay couples. The men get by as best they can. Ellis works at an auto body shop. He hopes at some point, the boss will hire him for a permanent position. Casey works at the library, but only for part of the year, so he needs another job. Just scraping by, Ellis finds a discarded Christmas tree and takes it back to their trailer home. Casey is thrilled and they decorate the tree with popcorn.
The author did a great job conveying Casey and Ellis’ living conditions, the love they felt for each other and the kind of background they came from. That’s what makes this different from most of the Christmas stories I’ve read.
The one thing that bothered me about the writing was the author used a lot of monologue. I don’t enjoy reading monologue because it comes across as telling me what happens rather than getting me to experience what the characters experience. Somehow, the author was able to draw me in and feel for Casey and Ellis.
Red Popcorn Strings is a fast, sweet, Christmassy short story and has all the feels of the holiday. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to get into the holiday spirit. I give this book 4 Stars.
This sweet Christmas story presents the idea that no matter how poor a person is, love and having someone to love you back, is enough. People can make do with the bare minimum and it’s good enough.
Casey and Ellis live in a trailer home in a town that doesn’t look kindly on gays, let alone gay couples. The men get by as best they can. Ellis works at an auto body shop. He hopes at some point, the boss will hire him for a permanent position. Casey works at the library, but only for part of the year, so he needs another job. Just scraping by, Ellis finds a discarded Christmas tree and takes it back to their trailer home. Casey is thrilled and they decorate the tree with popcorn.
The author did a great job conveying Casey and Ellis’ living conditions, the love they felt for each other and the kind of background they came from. That’s what makes this different from most of the Christmas stories I’ve read.
The one thing that bothered me about the writing was the author used a lot of monologue. I don’t enjoy reading monologue because it comes across as telling me what happens rather than getting me to experience what the characters experience. Somehow, the author was able to draw me in and feel for Casey and Ellis.
Red Popcorn Strings is a fast, sweet, Christmassy short story and has all the feels of the holiday. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to get into the holiday spirit. I give this book 4 Stars.
December 12, 2017
I’ve been that poor. Where I grew up there were plenty of places to cut your own tree. Not the trimmed up nurseries everywhere today just wild places. We’d trudge out and get what we could find that would fit in Mom’s old AMC Rebel. One year it was the worst scraggly thing. Mom called it our Charlie Brown Christmas Tree. The snow was bad that year so we couldn’t get out of town and this tree was in the gully behind our house. Popcorn strings, red & green paper rings and our decorations inherited from family and years past along with the awful things my brother & I had created at school. I think my mother still has most of those wretched things.
More than once as a child the Salvation Army brought Christmas dinner. I really disagree with their LGBTQ standing but I drop my change into every red bucket I see during the holidays. I can’t help myself. I remember if it wasn’t for them there wouldn’t have been Christmas dinner or toys under the tree more than one year.
It’s funny, we were damn poor but those are some of the best Christmas’s I’ve had.
Just like Ellis & Casey in this little Christmas story I know what’s important.
More than once as a child the Salvation Army brought Christmas dinner. I really disagree with their LGBTQ standing but I drop my change into every red bucket I see during the holidays. I can’t help myself. I remember if it wasn’t for them there wouldn’t have been Christmas dinner or toys under the tree more than one year.
It’s funny, we were damn poor but those are some of the best Christmas’s I’ve had.
Just like Ellis & Casey in this little Christmas story I know what’s important.
December 11, 2017
When you are poor have nothing, happiness is simple. Even if it's only a forgotten picture from your childhood, a warm food, and a job opportunity. And your love ones stand beside you whatever people said about you, to love you and make sure that you are happy.
That's enough for Casey and Ellis. But this year, Christmas is pretty special, because there's hope.
I liked this one, enjoyable and heartwarming. And Casey and Ellis are happy, this is their best Christmas ever! Because, the end is kinda hooked me and made me smile.
November 25, 2017
I read the blurb for this and passed it by. Twice. I thought it would be sad, at least somewhat. I was vastly underestimating Casey and Ellis though. They may have next to nothing right now, but they have each other and that makes their world right. I’m not sure the last time a couple convinced me they were as perfect for each other as Casey and Ellis did.
They are facing a Christmas alone – Casey’s mother passed away this year, so there will be no knitted socks this year. Ellis is estranged from his family as they don’t accept “gay”. “Be reasonable. You know what we feel about…him.” It’s sad but they don’t wallow. Money is super tight and there isn’t any left for a Christmas dinner, decorations or gifts. But a thrown out tree brought home and decorated with red colored popcorn strings makes it a Christmas. Casey even takes his courage in hand and opens the only box left to him by his mama.
The two manage to show their love and care for each other, despite the circumstances. Knowing they have been friends since they were children and remain steadfast and loyal just made things better.
This is a short story that has hope just drifting out of it. Yes, there are a couple things that I didn’t love but they weren’t enough to take away the feel of love these men have for each other. There was hope in the gift, love in the gift, and hope in the banging on the front door. It’s what made it holiday for me.
They are facing a Christmas alone – Casey’s mother passed away this year, so there will be no knitted socks this year. Ellis is estranged from his family as they don’t accept “gay”. “Be reasonable. You know what we feel about…him.” It’s sad but they don’t wallow. Money is super tight and there isn’t any left for a Christmas dinner, decorations or gifts. But a thrown out tree brought home and decorated with red colored popcorn strings makes it a Christmas. Casey even takes his courage in hand and opens the only box left to him by his mama.
The two manage to show their love and care for each other, despite the circumstances. Knowing they have been friends since they were children and remain steadfast and loyal just made things better.
This is a short story that has hope just drifting out of it. Yes, there are a couple things that I didn’t love but they weren’t enough to take away the feel of love these men have for each other. There was hope in the gift, love in the gift, and hope in the banging on the front door. It’s what made it holiday for me.
December 5, 2017
2.5 stars- Rounded up to 3
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings was one of those shorts I thought I’d like more than I did. As much as I love a heartwarming story filled with sweet moments, I’ll fully admit I’m choosy about what level of sweet I can handle. Once a plot gets cutesy, I tend to disengage, and I think that’s what happened here. Ellis and Casey are two younger men struggling to make ends meet. Though they don’t have much in the way of physical belongings, it’s clear they share a pure love and have hearts overflowing with Christmas spirit. And yet, I found this story a little lacking.
I liked Ellis and Casey quite a bit and found their love wholesome and fairly endearing. The stories of their childhood friendship were incredibly sweet and it was obvious their feelings for one another ran deep. However, the cheese factor and some of the interactions between the two felt artificially cute, rather than simple and sweet, and it took me out of the story. There was definitely a good amount of steam in this story, especially compared to the other advent stories I’ve read thus far, so I’m sure many readers will be happy with the sexy scene. Unfortunately, I felt so removed from the story at that point that it left me feeling more “meh” than wowed. Simply put, Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings wasn’t my style and would be better suited for those looking for low conflict, toothache-inducing sweet holiday stories. Because it was more about my personal preference rather than the writing style or characters, I’m rounding up for my rating.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings was one of those shorts I thought I’d like more than I did. As much as I love a heartwarming story filled with sweet moments, I’ll fully admit I’m choosy about what level of sweet I can handle. Once a plot gets cutesy, I tend to disengage, and I think that’s what happened here. Ellis and Casey are two younger men struggling to make ends meet. Though they don’t have much in the way of physical belongings, it’s clear they share a pure love and have hearts overflowing with Christmas spirit. And yet, I found this story a little lacking.
I liked Ellis and Casey quite a bit and found their love wholesome and fairly endearing. The stories of their childhood friendship were incredibly sweet and it was obvious their feelings for one another ran deep. However, the cheese factor and some of the interactions between the two felt artificially cute, rather than simple and sweet, and it took me out of the story. There was definitely a good amount of steam in this story, especially compared to the other advent stories I’ve read thus far, so I’m sure many readers will be happy with the sexy scene. Unfortunately, I felt so removed from the story at that point that it left me feeling more “meh” than wowed. Simply put, Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings wasn’t my style and would be better suited for those looking for low conflict, toothache-inducing sweet holiday stories. Because it was more about my personal preference rather than the writing style or characters, I’m rounding up for my rating.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
December 17, 2017
For some, or maybe most people, Christmas is all about the presents, lavish decorations inside and outside their house, and endless food. While they are all symbols of an increasingly commercialized holiday, they can take up far more importance than they really deserve – considering the origins of the Christmas celebrations. Casey, whose mother died earlier that year, and Ellis, whose family doesn’t want to know about the fact that he is gay, are almost as poor as Mary and Joseph were when they ended up in a stable. Their story, and the way they have stuck together ever since they were kids before becoming boyfriends, reminded me of what is really important about sharing this winter holiday: love and family.
Casey has never even had a Christmas tree, his parents having been too poor to afford one, and he and Ellis are not much better off. But Casey remembers his grandmother’s, so when Ellis drags one into their trailer, Casey happily ignores the fact that it is a rather bedraggled specimen already losing its needles two days before Christmas arrives. Decorated with strings of popcorn dyed red, the tree becomes the center of one heck of a memorable Christmas.
Sometimes, like in Casey and Ellis’s case, you have to make your own happiness. Appreciating what others discard is as much part of that as defining what you truly value. Casey and Ellis, who are so very much in love and have a very creative way of looking at things, pay attention to every little detail and use their imagination to figure out how to make Christmas special. It is adorable and very poignant. And the Christmas surprises they face make everything even better.
If you like touching Christmas stories that might just make you cry, if you want to see two young men with nothing in material terms discover the wealth they have in terms of emotions, and if you’re looking for a heartwarming read, then you will probably like this short story as much as I do. I think it is too cute for words to begin with and the ending totally hit it out of the park!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
Casey has never even had a Christmas tree, his parents having been too poor to afford one, and he and Ellis are not much better off. But Casey remembers his grandmother’s, so when Ellis drags one into their trailer, Casey happily ignores the fact that it is a rather bedraggled specimen already losing its needles two days before Christmas arrives. Decorated with strings of popcorn dyed red, the tree becomes the center of one heck of a memorable Christmas.
Sometimes, like in Casey and Ellis’s case, you have to make your own happiness. Appreciating what others discard is as much part of that as defining what you truly value. Casey and Ellis, who are so very much in love and have a very creative way of looking at things, pay attention to every little detail and use their imagination to figure out how to make Christmas special. It is adorable and very poignant. And the Christmas surprises they face make everything even better.
If you like touching Christmas stories that might just make you cry, if you want to see two young men with nothing in material terms discover the wealth they have in terms of emotions, and if you’re looking for a heartwarming read, then you will probably like this short story as much as I do. I think it is too cute for words to begin with and the ending totally hit it out of the park!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
December 24, 2017
This is a short story done right!
First off, it definitely helped that Ellis and Casey were already an established couple, so we didn't have to go through the often-tedious-in-short-stories first meeting and falling in instalove. Nope, this couple is already serious in love with one another, even though they're dirt poor and struggling to eke out an existence in a rather backwards, socially speaking, area. Having come from an area such as this one, it felt completely authentic to me how the setting was portrayed - the family who doesn't want to acknowledge that a child is gay and has pretty much cut him out of their lives, the "we know you're gay but please don't talk about it" coworkers, and the hardscrabble life that often comes from living in such an area, whether you're gay or not.
But even if they had just met, I feel like the author would have done a great job at making their romance feel developed even though the story is short. There's just something about this story that spoke to my heart. It didn't feel fake or rushed at all to me, and in short stories, that is rare for me.
The only problem I really had with this story was the sex scene.
First off, it definitely helped that Ellis and Casey were already an established couple, so we didn't have to go through the often-tedious-in-short-stories first meeting and falling in instalove. Nope, this couple is already serious in love with one another, even though they're dirt poor and struggling to eke out an existence in a rather backwards, socially speaking, area. Having come from an area such as this one, it felt completely authentic to me how the setting was portrayed - the family who doesn't want to acknowledge that a child is gay and has pretty much cut him out of their lives, the "we know you're gay but please don't talk about it" coworkers, and the hardscrabble life that often comes from living in such an area, whether you're gay or not.
But even if they had just met, I feel like the author would have done a great job at making their romance feel developed even though the story is short. There's just something about this story that spoke to my heart. It didn't feel fake or rushed at all to me, and in short stories, that is rare for me.
The only problem I really had with this story was the sex scene.
December 8, 2019
Another great story from Nell Iris.
Confession: I've had Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings on my e-reader since last Christmas when I bought it from the original publisher. I don't know why I didn't read it then. I love Nell Iris's stories but I have so many unread books on my TBR list that it is overwhelming at times. When I got the request to do a Release Blitz for the re-release of the story, that's all the push I needed to read it – and I'm so glad I did.
Ellis and Casey are such a sweet couple but Ellis's family isn't accepting of their relationship. In spite of that, they've made a home and life for themselves together. They may not have much in the way of material things but they have each other and that's what matters.
Ellis's boss has a happy surprise for the couple and so does someone else, proving that Christmastime can help even a not-so-nice person be less Grinch-like (read it to find out who). This story is so sweet but don't let that fool you; there is one super-hot scene that about knocked my socks off! I keep saying that Nell Iris is my queen of MM short stories and this one didn't change that opinion. 😊 ❤
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Confession: I've had Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings on my e-reader since last Christmas when I bought it from the original publisher. I don't know why I didn't read it then. I love Nell Iris's stories but I have so many unread books on my TBR list that it is overwhelming at times. When I got the request to do a Release Blitz for the re-release of the story, that's all the push I needed to read it – and I'm so glad I did.
Ellis and Casey are such a sweet couple but Ellis's family isn't accepting of their relationship. In spite of that, they've made a home and life for themselves together. They may not have much in the way of material things but they have each other and that's what matters.
Ellis's boss has a happy surprise for the couple and so does someone else, proving that Christmastime can help even a not-so-nice person be less Grinch-like (read it to find out who). This story is so sweet but don't let that fool you; there is one super-hot scene that about knocked my socks off! I keep saying that Nell Iris is my queen of MM short stories and this one didn't change that opinion. 😊 ❤
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
November 7, 2018
This story reminds me a lot of my family. We don't usually have the money for lots of presents, so we make do with what we have or can make. This story reminds you that Christmas isn't extravagant decorations and presents. Its that love can make everything right.
I don't usually like short stories because I have a hard time getting into them or developing any kind of feelings for the main characters. I didn't have that problem here. I think a lot of it had to do with the subject matter, as mentioned above. All I know was that I enjoyed reading this.
I don't usually like short stories because I have a hard time getting into them or developing any kind of feelings for the main characters. I didn't have that problem here. I think a lot of it had to do with the subject matter, as mentioned above. All I know was that I enjoyed reading this.
November 29, 2017
This is seriously the cutest, sweetest story I read this year.
I simply adored Casey and who wouldn't like such an attentive man as Ellis.
Casey and Ellis are poor but happy. Ellis works at a mechanic and Casey is off for the holidays. Money is tight so they cant afford a tree, decorations, or presents.
Ellis brings home an ugly bent tree that his boss threw out and Casey thought it was the best thing ever.
Little things keep happening that proves there is magic in Christmas. Like I said I adored these characters and this story. Yes, it's so sweet it will give you a toothache but at times we need this. I loved it!
I simply adored Casey and who wouldn't like such an attentive man as Ellis.
Casey and Ellis are poor but happy. Ellis works at a mechanic and Casey is off for the holidays. Money is tight so they cant afford a tree, decorations, or presents.
Ellis brings home an ugly bent tree that his boss threw out and Casey thought it was the best thing ever.
Little things keep happening that proves there is magic in Christmas. Like I said I adored these characters and this story. Yes, it's so sweet it will give you a toothache but at times we need this. I loved it!
December 5, 2017
4.5 Stars
I absolutely loved Casey and Ellis! They were so sweet and just perfect together. I loved that even though they had very little when it came to material things, what they did have was the most important thing, love and each other.
This was an easy read filled with so much warmth and love and the chemistry between Casey and Ellis was off the charts and you could feel the love they shared coming off the pages at you.
Very enjoyable and highly recommendable!
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I absolutely loved Casey and Ellis! They were so sweet and just perfect together. I loved that even though they had very little when it came to material things, what they did have was the most important thing, love and each other.
This was an easy read filled with so much warmth and love and the chemistry between Casey and Ellis was off the charts and you could feel the love they shared coming off the pages at you.
Very enjoyable and highly recommendable!
*copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
December 7, 2017
This story broke my heart. Casey and Ellis are an established couple in the beginning of the book. They'd been friends since they were young children and their friends-to-lovers relationship developed as they got older, even though Casey always knew that they were going to be together (even when he was just a little tyke).
Unfortunately, Ellis' family didn't support their relationship and they made their dislike very clear. Casey wants nothing more than for Ellis to have a great Christmas surrounded by the people he loves, but it looks like Ellis' family isn't ready to accept their relationship. Remaining loyal to his beau, Ellis declines an invitation for him to come to the family Christmas dinner (alone) and opts to spend the day at home with Casey. Even though they're dirt poor and aren't even able to afford proper gifts for each other, they both managed to pull from their hearts and get a little something anyway. Sitting around their mangled, rescue Christmas tree, Casey and Ellis exchange their gifts and spend the day wrapped up in each other's arms.
Every single page of this book had me feelin' the feels. It brings a new meaning to the phrase "home is where the heart is." It didn't matter to Casey or Ellis that they were poor and couldn't afford to buy lavish things. As long as they had each other, they were happy and content. Of all of the books from the Dreamspinner Stocking Stuffers, this one is my favorite so far.
Unfortunately, Ellis' family didn't support their relationship and they made their dislike very clear. Casey wants nothing more than for Ellis to have a great Christmas surrounded by the people he loves, but it looks like Ellis' family isn't ready to accept their relationship. Remaining loyal to his beau, Ellis declines an invitation for him to come to the family Christmas dinner (alone) and opts to spend the day at home with Casey. Even though they're dirt poor and aren't even able to afford proper gifts for each other, they both managed to pull from their hearts and get a little something anyway. Sitting around their mangled, rescue Christmas tree, Casey and Ellis exchange their gifts and spend the day wrapped up in each other's arms.
Every single page of this book had me feelin' the feels. It brings a new meaning to the phrase "home is where the heart is." It didn't matter to Casey or Ellis that they were poor and couldn't afford to buy lavish things. As long as they had each other, they were happy and content. Of all of the books from the Dreamspinner Stocking Stuffers, this one is my favorite so far.
December 11, 2017
3.5 Stars
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings, from this year’s Dreamspinner Press Advent Calendar “Stocking Stuffers,” was very sweet and uplifting. Nell Iris is excellent at writing characters who are struggling in some way or another—whether it’s that they are overcoming some type of adversity or prejudice, or dealing with something like depression—and making them the heroes of their own story. I’ve connected to the characters on some level or another in all three books of her books that I’ve read, including Casey and Ellis in this one.
As the blurb says, Casey and Ellis are dirt poor. They live in a small trailer, and subsist on a very small food budget (thankfully, Casey is extremely creative in the kitchen) and each other’s love. That’s seriously pretty much it. And, now that Casey’s momma has passed, they won’t even have the luxury of the cozy new socks she knits them each year. But, Casey loves Christmas, so not even the prospect of no presents, eating mac and cheese for their Christmas supper, or the sad little tree that Ellis brought home are going to bring him down. I was so touched by how much Casey loved that sad little tree.
I adored Ellis. He was incredibly sweet and so enamored of Casey. Iris included a childhood flashback in the story, taking us back to a nine-year-old Ellis and a six-year-old Casey, and it was such a nice device to show their connection, and how much Ellis loved and was protective of Casey, even then. They are so happy and in love, despite their financial hardships; it warmed my heart to see how they cared for each other.
Told over the span of three days, and including the previously mentioned flashbacks, Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings is a lovely, hopeful example of what Christmas is truly about, which is being with the ones you love, and appreciating what you have.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings, from this year’s Dreamspinner Press Advent Calendar “Stocking Stuffers,” was very sweet and uplifting. Nell Iris is excellent at writing characters who are struggling in some way or another—whether it’s that they are overcoming some type of adversity or prejudice, or dealing with something like depression—and making them the heroes of their own story. I’ve connected to the characters on some level or another in all three books of her books that I’ve read, including Casey and Ellis in this one.
As the blurb says, Casey and Ellis are dirt poor. They live in a small trailer, and subsist on a very small food budget (thankfully, Casey is extremely creative in the kitchen) and each other’s love. That’s seriously pretty much it. And, now that Casey’s momma has passed, they won’t even have the luxury of the cozy new socks she knits them each year. But, Casey loves Christmas, so not even the prospect of no presents, eating mac and cheese for their Christmas supper, or the sad little tree that Ellis brought home are going to bring him down. I was so touched by how much Casey loved that sad little tree.
“I love you, tree,” Casey mumbled and kissed the sprig he held in his hand, ignoring the tiny prick of needles on his sensitive lips. “If only I had a gift for Ellis to put under you.”
I adored Ellis. He was incredibly sweet and so enamored of Casey. Iris included a childhood flashback in the story, taking us back to a nine-year-old Ellis and a six-year-old Casey, and it was such a nice device to show their connection, and how much Ellis loved and was protective of Casey, even then. They are so happy and in love, despite their financial hardships; it warmed my heart to see how they cared for each other.
Told over the span of three days, and including the previously mentioned flashbacks, Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings is a lovely, hopeful example of what Christmas is truly about, which is being with the ones you love, and appreciating what you have.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
December 8, 2017
I give very few 5 stars, especially for short works, but this was just such a wonderful, touching, piece that I just had too. Ellis and Casey both stole my heart and the author does a great job of conveying their characters, even in such a brief piece. Casey is sassy and flirty and Ellis is the solid, hardworking salt-of-the-earth type. Casey's love of Christmas gives their home an infectious holiday spirit and they plan to celebrate it as best they can with their very limited funds. They are desperately poor but desperately in love as well, and their love suffuses their home with a sense of peace and joy that I loved. There were several times that I teared up reading this heartwarming story. I want to emphasize that it never veered into being sappy and it had a good helping of sexy too! I definitely want to check out some of the author's other works after reading this. This will definitely be a seasonal reread for me in the future.
November 25, 2024
2024 Christmas Bingo 2
There is absolutely nothing wrong with this. It's a perfectly sweet little bit of Christmas fluff. It just feels like characters and situations that were created specifically for the purpose of having some sweet Christmas fluff. Like a Hallmark movie. Except a Hallmark movie that has an "awwww these sweet little babies" vibe suddenly interrupted by a long, explicit, raunchy dirty talk sex scene, which is not something that I would normally complain about, but holy shit I was not prepared to shift tones that quickly out of nowhere! I had to skim it, and then sliding right back into the regularly scheduled "awwww these sweet little babies" vibe afterward is when it started to feel very...manufactured? I'm not mad about it, especially since I like when Christmas stories start with an established couple, but it's not something I'd recommend.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with this. It's a perfectly sweet little bit of Christmas fluff. It just feels like characters and situations that were created specifically for the purpose of having some sweet Christmas fluff. Like a Hallmark movie. Except a Hallmark movie that has an "awwww these sweet little babies" vibe suddenly interrupted by a long, explicit, raunchy dirty talk sex scene, which is not something that I would normally complain about, but holy shit I was not prepared to shift tones that quickly out of nowhere! I had to skim it, and then sliding right back into the regularly scheduled "awwww these sweet little babies" vibe afterward is when it started to feel very...manufactured? I'm not mad about it, especially since I like when Christmas stories start with an established couple, but it's not something I'd recommend.
December 7, 2019
Nell Iris's Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings is a sweet holiday romance.
For a short story, there's a whole lot going on. Casey and Ellis make for a fantastic couple from the start. It's Christmas time but they don't have any money to buy something for each other.
Both men are great characters, and their relationship is super sweet. I love it! Their tale includes some grief and some heartache. But, don't fret, it has a happy ending.
In an wonderful move, the author even takes us back to when they were young, seeing the tenderness that started way back then. This is beautiful, just beautiful.
The author excels at developing short stories in an expert manner. And Red Popcorn String and Gumball Rings is no exception.
For a short story, there's a whole lot going on. Casey and Ellis make for a fantastic couple from the start. It's Christmas time but they don't have any money to buy something for each other.
Both men are great characters, and their relationship is super sweet. I love it! Their tale includes some grief and some heartache. But, don't fret, it has a happy ending.
In an wonderful move, the author even takes us back to when they were young, seeing the tenderness that started way back then. This is beautiful, just beautiful.
The author excels at developing short stories in an expert manner. And Red Popcorn String and Gumball Rings is no exception.
January 12, 2018
One of the things I loved about this was that the MC's weren't macho rich guys with everything in the world. This dealt with a couple who is deeply in love with each other, but they don't have much. It was refreshing to see something that could be a bit more realistic and focusing on the true meaning of Christmas. I was touched by the memories of Casey's mom, and my heart went out to both guys as they dealt with family. I loved the ending. Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings--really don't need more than that when you have true love. <3
December 25, 2019
Short, cute, believable, and oh so super duper sweet. The whole Charlie Brown-like tree is a wonderful setting for Red Popcorn Strings and Gumball Rings. Would either like a bigger tree? A proper holiday lunch? Gifts under the aforementioned tree? Sure, of course they would but at the same time, this tiny, forgotten tree that was probably days away from "recycling" is perfect for Casey and Ellis. So much joy and happiness in this little holiday short that will leave you happy, smiling, and looking for what's important. It may be short in quantity but it is long on quality.
January 2, 2018
This story was so sweet! But there were quite a few surprising twists to Ellis and Casey's story - and I loved every one of them. Ellis and Casey have been through everything together and with the first Christmas since Casey's mom has died suddenly and Ellis's family being estranged, it's a little bit of a sad Christmas. Until it isn't. Just lovely.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews