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Doves of Destiny #1
The Holiday Disaster
What do you call being stranded with your brother’s best friend? A Recipe for disaster? Or a dream come true?
Ethan Wang
College is supposed to be my chance to start over. To leave high school behind and focus on my studies to become a vet. Then, I board a plane on winter break and find myself seated next to my brother’s best friend. The same guy I had a huge crush on even though he always seemed to have it out for me.
It should be a quick flight filled with awkward small talk, but plans change when the plane’s engine fails and we have to land in the middle of nowhere. After a sequence of ill-fated events, we’re forced to share a B&B with only one bed. Trapped in a room with a man I’ve hidden my feelings from for years… What’s the worst that could happen?
Kingsley Sharp
I usually get what I want, thanks to my mastery at charming my way into anyone’s heart. That, however, hasn’t been the case with my best friend’s brother. We got off on the wrong foot, and I want nothing more than to win him over.
Now with us stranded together, my chance has come. Stuck in a small town full of snow drifts and holiday cheer, I’m determined to use this disaster to make this a magical holiday neither of us will forget.
The Holiday Disaster is a standalone MM romance with college-aged characters. It’s a fun blend of sweet and steamy moments featuring brother’s best friend, one bed, first love, slow burn, and opposites attract tropes.
Ethan Wang
College is supposed to be my chance to start over. To leave high school behind and focus on my studies to become a vet. Then, I board a plane on winter break and find myself seated next to my brother’s best friend. The same guy I had a huge crush on even though he always seemed to have it out for me.
It should be a quick flight filled with awkward small talk, but plans change when the plane’s engine fails and we have to land in the middle of nowhere. After a sequence of ill-fated events, we’re forced to share a B&B with only one bed. Trapped in a room with a man I’ve hidden my feelings from for years… What’s the worst that could happen?
Kingsley Sharp
I usually get what I want, thanks to my mastery at charming my way into anyone’s heart. That, however, hasn’t been the case with my best friend’s brother. We got off on the wrong foot, and I want nothing more than to win him over.
Now with us stranded together, my chance has come. Stuck in a small town full of snow drifts and holiday cheer, I’m determined to use this disaster to make this a magical holiday neither of us will forget.
The Holiday Disaster is a standalone MM romance with college-aged characters. It’s a fun blend of sweet and steamy moments featuring brother’s best friend, one bed, first love, slow burn, and opposites attract tropes.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 27, 2022
About the author
Rye Cox
12 books85 followersBe sure to follow to stay updated on latest release: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/rye-cox
Rye is an M/M Romance author who is a romantic at heart. She believes that love conquers all, and that's why her stories are guaranteed to always have an HEA. When she's not writing, she escapes to the world of books or daydreams about becoming a future cat lady.
Rye is an M/M Romance author who is a romantic at heart. She believes that love conquers all, and that's why her stories are guaranteed to always have an HEA. When she's not writing, she escapes to the world of books or daydreams about becoming a future cat lady.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
December 14, 2022
Rating: 2.5 stars
I love the premise of this book - Ethan's been crushing on his big brother's BFF, Kingsley, basically forever. They wind up stranded together and oops, there's only one bed. Such mutual pining, such forced proximity.
Sadly, what I did not love was how the book was executed. It feels like it's not polished. THe pacing is off, I got whiplash from the hate him/love him/shouldn't do this/have to do this from both leads but especially Kingsley, and it's rather purple prose-y. Lines like "but I was a young man with high hormones that demanded I get off, and often." What 23-year-old talks like that?! It was like reading 50 Shades of Gray, but make it queer college boys.
I ended up skimming the last 15% of this book because I just wanted it to be OVER. It was really predictable, but if you can get past the overwrought writing it IS a cute story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
I love the premise of this book - Ethan's been crushing on his big brother's BFF, Kingsley, basically forever. They wind up stranded together and oops, there's only one bed. Such mutual pining, such forced proximity.
Sadly, what I did not love was how the book was executed. It feels like it's not polished. THe pacing is off, I got whiplash from the hate him/love him/shouldn't do this/have to do this from both leads but especially Kingsley, and it's rather purple prose-y. Lines like "but I was a young man with high hormones that demanded I get off, and often." What 23-year-old talks like that?! It was like reading 50 Shades of Gray, but make it queer college boys.
I ended up skimming the last 15% of this book because I just wanted it to be OVER. It was really predictable, but if you can get past the overwrought writing it IS a cute story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
September 4, 2023
3.5 stars
Lovely fluffy romance, with best friend's brother, forced proximity, only one bed, Christmas time, frenemies to lovers tropes.
The MCs are adorable and after some misunderstandings due to their young age, finally got together after an emergency landing of their plane.
This story was very low angst and a little predictable.
I enjoyed, though, and I recommended if you're in need of something cute.
Lovely fluffy romance, with best friend's brother, forced proximity, only one bed, Christmas time, frenemies to lovers tropes.
The MCs are adorable and after some misunderstandings due to their young age, finally got together after an emergency landing of their plane.
This story was very low angst and a little predictable.
I enjoyed, though, and I recommended if you're in need of something cute.
December 13, 2022
This was a new to me writer with a blurb and tropes that called to me. I needed to see how this all resolved.
So in here we have Ethan, an Asian (like me!) mc who was in his first year of college and a virgin and a quiet guy who has had a lifetime crush on Kingsley, the next door neighbor and best friend of Ethan's older brother.
Kingsley is a junior in college, who doesnt know what he wants to do in life. He discovered that he was bi early, but did not get with men until college. Poor Ethan did not know this and thought he was straight.
So this whole story would have been resolved on page one if these two sat down and talked like adults. I mean, the whole conflict was about miscommunication. Ethan though Kingley hated him from first sight, and let me put that quote here because I loved it.
*You are beautiful, are you my princess?*
Kingsley was 10 and already was a charmer.
However, Ethan thought he was being called girly, because he was slight and was mistaken for a girl a lot, he was also 9 so deep thinking was not gonna happen. From that day until many years later, they both thought the other didnt like them.
This story is actually taking place within a couple of days in a town known for being where the doves can lead you to your fated love. I thought that was awesome and will be reading more in the series as I need to know about the original fated pair.
However, and this is a big however, this was a hard to read book. Almost all of the book was in one MC's head or the other. Big, long, and deep thoughts are good and all, but man, you cannot read pages and pages of it without getting taken out of the story.
So in here we have Ethan, an Asian (like me!) mc who was in his first year of college and a virgin and a quiet guy who has had a lifetime crush on Kingsley, the next door neighbor and best friend of Ethan's older brother.
Kingsley is a junior in college, who doesnt know what he wants to do in life. He discovered that he was bi early, but did not get with men until college. Poor Ethan did not know this and thought he was straight.
So this whole story would have been resolved on page one if these two sat down and talked like adults. I mean, the whole conflict was about miscommunication. Ethan though Kingley hated him from first sight, and let me put that quote here because I loved it.
*You are beautiful, are you my princess?*
Kingsley was 10 and already was a charmer.
However, Ethan thought he was being called girly, because he was slight and was mistaken for a girl a lot, he was also 9 so deep thinking was not gonna happen. From that day until many years later, they both thought the other didnt like them.
This story is actually taking place within a couple of days in a town known for being where the doves can lead you to your fated love. I thought that was awesome and will be reading more in the series as I need to know about the original fated pair.
However, and this is a big however, this was a hard to read book. Almost all of the book was in one MC's head or the other. Big, long, and deep thoughts are good and all, but man, you cannot read pages and pages of it without getting taken out of the story.
December 28, 2022
It was like floating on the water.
The story felt dragged, and nothing special or swoon worthy.
I managed to finished it but exhausted.
Sorry, not for me.
The story felt dragged, and nothing special or swoon worthy.
I managed to finished it but exhausted.
Sorry, not for me.
December 18, 2023
3.5 stars.
This is a cute story, though the young ages of the characters – especially Ethan – is really obvious. I get it. He and Kingsley are still in college, but he came across more as a young teenager than a young adult. As for Kingsley, he acted a lot more mature in some ways, but his constant teasing got old quick. Had these guys been older, had Ethan acted older, I’d probably have enjoyed this more.
Ethan and Kingsley basically grew up together, with Kingsley being Ethan’s brother’s best friend. So much was told about their childhoods, but not a whole lot was shown. Also, their constant internal monologues didn’t really do much for the story.
I wish the ‘doves of destiny’ thing had been more than it was. While I wouldn’t want legend overkill, it still would’ve been nice to see a little bit more than what I saw as far as Ethan and Kingsley.
Even so, it was a nice enough read.
This is a cute story, though the young ages of the characters – especially Ethan – is really obvious. I get it. He and Kingsley are still in college, but he came across more as a young teenager than a young adult. As for Kingsley, he acted a lot more mature in some ways, but his constant teasing got old quick. Had these guys been older, had Ethan acted older, I’d probably have enjoyed this more.
Ethan and Kingsley basically grew up together, with Kingsley being Ethan’s brother’s best friend. So much was told about their childhoods, but not a whole lot was shown. Also, their constant internal monologues didn’t really do much for the story.
I wish the ‘doves of destiny’ thing had been more than it was. While I wouldn’t want legend overkill, it still would’ve been nice to see a little bit more than what I saw as far as Ethan and Kingsley.
Even so, it was a nice enough read.
January 3, 2024
DNF at 7%
The writing is uninteresting, and I'll take a pass on the bathroom jokes 12 pages into the book (or any amount of pages into the book).
Also the weird stalker vibes I'm getting from Kingsley with sentences like My heart was silently screaming at this uninterrupted chance to get to know him better, without the possibility of him running away like he would have in the past. or I’d let him run away for now, but I was nowhere near done trying to break through his walls.: maybe he wants to run away because you're full of red flags dude?
Pass. Pass. Pass.
The writing is uninteresting, and I'll take a pass on the bathroom jokes 12 pages into the book (or any amount of pages into the book).
Also the weird stalker vibes I'm getting from Kingsley with sentences like My heart was silently screaming at this uninterrupted chance to get to know him better, without the possibility of him running away like he would have in the past. or I’d let him run away for now, but I was nowhere near done trying to break through his walls.: maybe he wants to run away because you're full of red flags dude?
Pass. Pass. Pass.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2022
A good start as Ethan tries to avoid his brother’s best friend at the airport only to be seated together.
Ethan was on his way home to spend Christmas with his folks but never expected to see Kingsley at the airport. Both attended the same college and both lived in the same hometown.
Both silently wanting each other from their time is youngsters.
Misunderstandings happen but there stranded in a unknown town with the plane having problems.
Ethan doesn’t have the best luck and it seemed to follow him. What turns out to be an routine trip, turns to be nightmare for a grumpy Ethan and his plight to avoid Kingsley. A fast romance with a snow storm and one bedroom. An enjoyable holiday book to read with dual POVs and a HEA.
I received a GRR Advance Reader Copy and this is my honest thoughts.
Ethan was on his way home to spend Christmas with his folks but never expected to see Kingsley at the airport. Both attended the same college and both lived in the same hometown.
Both silently wanting each other from their time is youngsters.
Misunderstandings happen but there stranded in a unknown town with the plane having problems.
Ethan doesn’t have the best luck and it seemed to follow him. What turns out to be an routine trip, turns to be nightmare for a grumpy Ethan and his plight to avoid Kingsley. A fast romance with a snow storm and one bedroom. An enjoyable holiday book to read with dual POVs and a HEA.
I received a GRR Advance Reader Copy and this is my honest thoughts.
December 17, 2022
This is a sweet holiday romance with strong, likable characters in Kingsley and Ethan. It's an entertaining story with the two wanting each other but never moving on it. Now they are forced into close quarters with one bed. It's a cute story, moves fluidly with perfectly painted scenes and is an enjoyable read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
December 22, 2022
4.5 Stars
Ethan Wang has had a crush on his best friend’s brother/brother’s best friend, Kingsley, for years. A crush he shows by awkwardness, indifference, blatant annoyance and avoidance. He thinks that Kingsley hates him, so he hides his crush way down. He called Ethan a princess the first time they met, breaking Ethan’s heart.
Kingsley has had a crush on his sister’s best friend/best friend’s brother, Ethan, for years. A crush he shows by teasing, following his sister and Ethan around, charm and misinterpreted flirting. He can’t figure out why Ethan hates him, especially when he’s wanted Ethan to be his princess since they met when Ethan was 9.
When Ethan discovers that he and Kingsley are not only on the same flight home, but seated next to one another, he is dreading the teasing he is about to endure. He turns off his feelings and tries to ignore Kingsley. Turbulence and a wicked snowstorm get the passengers stranded in a middle-of-nowhere town and Ethan & Kingsley wind up forced to share the only bed in the only room available at the last B&B in the town.
Since Wintertown is one of those amazing little towns that feels like it’s full of magic, Christmas, avian or otherwise, Ethan finds himself opening up to Kingsley against his resolve to pass their time trapped together in near-silence whenever possible. However, the sparks that exist between and Ethan & Kingsley are too powerful to ignore. One might even say their connection is destiny. One kiss turns into two kisses turns into doing more than sharing the singular bed for sleeping.
Can Ethan believe that Kingsley is being truthful when he tells him everything he’s ever wanted to hear? Can Kingsley prove to Ethan that he’s not only into him, but in this for the long haul? Will the snow stay cold with all the heat these two throw off once they toss their clothes, too?
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
The Holiday Disaster
Rye Cox
Ethan Wang has had a crush on his best friend’s brother/brother’s best friend, Kingsley, for years. A crush he shows by awkwardness, indifference, blatant annoyance and avoidance. He thinks that Kingsley hates him, so he hides his crush way down. He called Ethan a princess the first time they met, breaking Ethan’s heart.
Kingsley has had a crush on his sister’s best friend/best friend’s brother, Ethan, for years. A crush he shows by teasing, following his sister and Ethan around, charm and misinterpreted flirting. He can’t figure out why Ethan hates him, especially when he’s wanted Ethan to be his princess since they met when Ethan was 9.
When Ethan discovers that he and Kingsley are not only on the same flight home, but seated next to one another, he is dreading the teasing he is about to endure. He turns off his feelings and tries to ignore Kingsley. Turbulence and a wicked snowstorm get the passengers stranded in a middle-of-nowhere town and Ethan & Kingsley wind up forced to share the only bed in the only room available at the last B&B in the town.
Since Wintertown is one of those amazing little towns that feels like it’s full of magic, Christmas, avian or otherwise, Ethan finds himself opening up to Kingsley against his resolve to pass their time trapped together in near-silence whenever possible. However, the sparks that exist between and Ethan & Kingsley are too powerful to ignore. One might even say their connection is destiny. One kiss turns into two kisses turns into doing more than sharing the singular bed for sleeping.
Can Ethan believe that Kingsley is being truthful when he tells him everything he’s ever wanted to hear? Can Kingsley prove to Ethan that he’s not only into him, but in this for the long haul? Will the snow stay cold with all the heat these two throw off once they toss their clothes, too?
I received a complimentary copy of this book and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
The Holiday Disaster
Rye Cox
April 3, 2024
2.5
Had some promise - I liked the idea and the characters but it just felt rushed and a bit clunky. Skimmed the last bit.
Had some promise - I liked the idea and the characters but it just felt rushed and a bit clunky. Skimmed the last bit.
January 1, 2024
2.5 little too saccharine at times but still enjoyable
December 10, 2022
DNF 40%
Ethan continuously expressed extreme annoyance and irritation with Kingsley's 'teasing' (it's not teasing, it's straight up bullying when the recipient doesn't enjoy it). Ethan was finally finding some courage around Kingsley, only to lose it again immediately thanks to his insensitive so-called 'teasing'.
Then, when I finally thought they were making some headway, Kingsley said: "Teasing Ethan was becoming one of my favorite things in the world."
Poor Ethan. He should have punched Kingsley like he wanted to.
A real pity, because I was so ready to read all about Kingsley winning Ethan over.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased.
Ethan continuously expressed extreme annoyance and irritation with Kingsley's 'teasing' (it's not teasing, it's straight up bullying when the recipient doesn't enjoy it). Ethan was finally finding some courage around Kingsley, only to lose it again immediately thanks to his insensitive so-called 'teasing'.
Then, when I finally thought they were making some headway, Kingsley said: "Teasing Ethan was becoming one of my favorite things in the world."
Poor Ethan. He should have punched Kingsley like he wanted to.
A real pity, because I was so ready to read all about Kingsley winning Ethan over.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased.
January 3, 2024
A fun premise of the book - brothers best friend and the younger brother stranded during a storm (and a myriad of other disasters to boot). Both who have thought the other wasn’t interested.
Sorely lacking in the execution. And one of the characters Kingsley is really just a bit of a bully towards the other, Ethan. The story was clunky, and backwards and forwards between them that was really inconsistent and just took away from the story.
Nearly DNF’d it, but it’s not particularly long so I battled through.
Sorely lacking in the execution. And one of the characters Kingsley is really just a bit of a bully towards the other, Ethan. The story was clunky, and backwards and forwards between them that was really inconsistent and just took away from the story.
Nearly DNF’d it, but it’s not particularly long so I battled through.
December 31, 2022
I'm glad that this was the last holiday book on my list for 2022. Not because I'm burnt out on holiday lists, but because this one was cute and made me smile like a maniac (most of the time) so it meant I was ending the season on a good note.
Ethan is a college freshman coming home from college. He's convinced he has bad luck and most of the early part of the book seems to confirm his belief. Kingsley is a junior and Ethan's brother's best friend. Ethan is also convinced that Kingsley has hated him since they were kids, due to a misunderstanding. Kingsley thinks that Ethan has always just been annoyed with him, and like the golden retriever that he is, it made him want to be friends with him in their youth. In reality, they've both had crushes on one another for as long as either of them could remember. And because this is a book about the Doves of Destiny and fate? Well, of course they're on the same plane which experiences engine trouble and lands them in a small town where there is only one hotel room with one bed in the entire town, thanks to tourism and a bunch of other stranded passengers.
A lot of this book's conflict is built upon the childhood misunderstanding. It is also built around the fact that Kingsley likes to tease Ethan and Ethan, bless him, does not realize that Kingsley is teasing and takes it all VERY personally. There's also slight concern on Kingsley's part on how his best friend will react to him dating his younger brother, but they're only a year apart and honestly? This part of the conflict takes up very little narrative space.
This book is filled with near misses and miscommunications. Miscommunications can be very hit or miss for me, and there were several times where I wanted to wring both of their necks and force them to converse. The only reason this didn't make the story lose a star is because half the time when they'd sit down to have the needed conversation, something or someone would interrupt them and then they'd lose courage in having the conversation. Which goes back to the near misses and causes parts of this book to be a comedy of errors.
All in all, I loved this book. It was a cute romance told in Dual POV with some decent heat and a cute love story. I can't wait to revisit Wintertown and find out even more about the Doves of Destiny, the original couple of legend, and see if two side characters end up getting their ish together.
** DISCLAIMER: I recieved an ARC of this novel from the author and this is my fair and unbiased review. **
Ethan is a college freshman coming home from college. He's convinced he has bad luck and most of the early part of the book seems to confirm his belief. Kingsley is a junior and Ethan's brother's best friend. Ethan is also convinced that Kingsley has hated him since they were kids, due to a misunderstanding. Kingsley thinks that Ethan has always just been annoyed with him, and like the golden retriever that he is, it made him want to be friends with him in their youth. In reality, they've both had crushes on one another for as long as either of them could remember. And because this is a book about the Doves of Destiny and fate? Well, of course they're on the same plane which experiences engine trouble and lands them in a small town where there is only one hotel room with one bed in the entire town, thanks to tourism and a bunch of other stranded passengers.
A lot of this book's conflict is built upon the childhood misunderstanding. It is also built around the fact that Kingsley likes to tease Ethan and Ethan, bless him, does not realize that Kingsley is teasing and takes it all VERY personally. There's also slight concern on Kingsley's part on how his best friend will react to him dating his younger brother, but they're only a year apart and honestly? This part of the conflict takes up very little narrative space.
This book is filled with near misses and miscommunications. Miscommunications can be very hit or miss for me, and there were several times where I wanted to wring both of their necks and force them to converse. The only reason this didn't make the story lose a star is because half the time when they'd sit down to have the needed conversation, something or someone would interrupt them and then they'd lose courage in having the conversation. Which goes back to the near misses and causes parts of this book to be a comedy of errors.
All in all, I loved this book. It was a cute romance told in Dual POV with some decent heat and a cute love story. I can't wait to revisit Wintertown and find out even more about the Doves of Destiny, the original couple of legend, and see if two side characters end up getting their ish together.
** DISCLAIMER: I recieved an ARC of this novel from the author and this is my fair and unbiased review. **
December 28, 2022
Reviewed for Love Bytes – 3 hearts
One was a best friend to an older brother, and the other was a younger brother to his best friend. Kingsley and Ethan grew up believing the other hated him. Regardless, Ethan still held a flame for Kingsley. Yet, whenever possible, he avoided the man. Who knows what Christmas miracles may happen when fate and nature put them in the same disaster?
The Holiday Disaster is a quaint, opposites-attract story where a magical winter facilitates the journey to love.
The tale is told in the first person, present tense, from the viewpoints of Ethan and Kingsley. Technically, it was pretty good. The only aspects that stood out were the unqualified autonomous body parts. When a sentence states ‘my hands did x’ without qualification, such as ‘if they had a mind of their own my hands did x – it should be written ‘I did Xyz with my hands,’. Autonomous body parts are big no no’s for professional editors.
Airplane complications ensure that Ethan and Kingsley end up in Wintertown, which is everything you’d expect of a town with that name. Here, the picture presented is idyllic, including delightful wintry events that are perfect for yuletide.
Kingsley comes over as confident, experienced, and likable, but the man has masks. Ethan is ostensibly shy, and a virgin - but, where necessary, has no problem speaking his mind – usually around Kingsley. The two have known each other most of their lives. However, the majority of their interactions have been a series of misinterpretations. These historic views facilitate premature conclusions, erratic reactions, and occasional unwarranted worry. However, forced proximity and the magic of Wintertown do their thing. Although Ethan is the shy one, he seems to be the one with all the power, and Kingsley seems hell-bent on pleasing him, which at any other time of year, may have come over as a touch saccharine or too eager to apologize/please. After all, some responsibility should go the other way, for Ethan made some cutting remarks for Kingsley to feel like he was hated, too. But, hey, it’s a Christmas story, so it's allowed.
A Holiday Disaster is a sweet mince pie of a story, typical of its genre for this time of year – it even contains a mug of hot chocolate.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
One was a best friend to an older brother, and the other was a younger brother to his best friend. Kingsley and Ethan grew up believing the other hated him. Regardless, Ethan still held a flame for Kingsley. Yet, whenever possible, he avoided the man. Who knows what Christmas miracles may happen when fate and nature put them in the same disaster?
The Holiday Disaster is a quaint, opposites-attract story where a magical winter facilitates the journey to love.
The tale is told in the first person, present tense, from the viewpoints of Ethan and Kingsley. Technically, it was pretty good. The only aspects that stood out were the unqualified autonomous body parts. When a sentence states ‘my hands did x’ without qualification, such as ‘if they had a mind of their own my hands did x – it should be written ‘I did Xyz with my hands,’. Autonomous body parts are big no no’s for professional editors.
Airplane complications ensure that Ethan and Kingsley end up in Wintertown, which is everything you’d expect of a town with that name. Here, the picture presented is idyllic, including delightful wintry events that are perfect for yuletide.
Kingsley comes over as confident, experienced, and likable, but the man has masks. Ethan is ostensibly shy, and a virgin - but, where necessary, has no problem speaking his mind – usually around Kingsley. The two have known each other most of their lives. However, the majority of their interactions have been a series of misinterpretations. These historic views facilitate premature conclusions, erratic reactions, and occasional unwarranted worry. However, forced proximity and the magic of Wintertown do their thing. Although Ethan is the shy one, he seems to be the one with all the power, and Kingsley seems hell-bent on pleasing him, which at any other time of year, may have come over as a touch saccharine or too eager to apologize/please. After all, some responsibility should go the other way, for Ethan made some cutting remarks for Kingsley to feel like he was hated, too. But, hey, it’s a Christmas story, so it's allowed.
A Holiday Disaster is a sweet mince pie of a story, typical of its genre for this time of year – it even contains a mug of hot chocolate.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
December 18, 2022
“See? We really are fated.”
I enjoyed every little bit of this book. It’s got some of my favorite tropes:
❄️brother’s best friend
❄️boy next door
❄️forced proximity
❄️there’s only one bed
❄️grumpy/sunshine
❄️first times
Poor Ethan is convinced he’s cursed with bad luck, and that does seem to be true for a bit. Not only is he on the same flight as Kingsley, his older brother’s best friend, but they also have to sit next to each other. When their plane has to emergency land in a random town, grounding them for the weekend, they almost get into a car crash and can only snag a B&B room with one bed. Ethan just spent the whole last semester avoiding the guy he’s convinced hates him, and now they’re stuck together with no escape.
Kingsley is thrilled by this turn of events, seizing the opportunity to win over Ethan. He doesn’t understand why Ethan avoids and snubs him, and he’s determined to charm the boy next door. He launches his mission with holiday fun, thrilled every time he makes Ethan smile. Over the course of the weekend, Kingsley and Ethan are able to work out tension between them, shifting it into a tension of another sort (the smexy kind).
Kingsley and Ethan are adorable, and I couldn’t get enough of the easy affection between them. I loved that Ethan couldn’t deny his natural connection with and trust in Kingsley, even when he was determined to steer clear of him. Plus, I am an absolute sucker for a sappy story about soul mates and fate, and this book totally delivers.
I enjoyed every little bit of this book. It’s got some of my favorite tropes:
❄️brother’s best friend
❄️boy next door
❄️forced proximity
❄️there’s only one bed
❄️grumpy/sunshine
❄️first times
Poor Ethan is convinced he’s cursed with bad luck, and that does seem to be true for a bit. Not only is he on the same flight as Kingsley, his older brother’s best friend, but they also have to sit next to each other. When their plane has to emergency land in a random town, grounding them for the weekend, they almost get into a car crash and can only snag a B&B room with one bed. Ethan just spent the whole last semester avoiding the guy he’s convinced hates him, and now they’re stuck together with no escape.
Kingsley is thrilled by this turn of events, seizing the opportunity to win over Ethan. He doesn’t understand why Ethan avoids and snubs him, and he’s determined to charm the boy next door. He launches his mission with holiday fun, thrilled every time he makes Ethan smile. Over the course of the weekend, Kingsley and Ethan are able to work out tension between them, shifting it into a tension of another sort (the smexy kind).
Kingsley and Ethan are adorable, and I couldn’t get enough of the easy affection between them. I loved that Ethan couldn’t deny his natural connection with and trust in Kingsley, even when he was determined to steer clear of him. Plus, I am an absolute sucker for a sappy story about soul mates and fate, and this book totally delivers.
December 19, 2022
The Holiday Disaster is an overall enjoyable Christmas romance as Ethan and Kingsley are stranded together, in an only one bed situation where they will work out any tension during a slow burn, brother's best friend story.
Ethan may or may not have crushed on Kingsley for several years and is also under the impression he strongly dislikes him. It makes for some entertaining moments but a lot of it is down to misunderstandings, miscommunications or Kingsley's teasing going just a bit too far. Kingsley clearly likes Ethan, more than likes even but doesn't necessarily have the best way of showing it. When they get stranded in Wintertown, it's a chance to start over, reconnect as friends themselves but it quickly evolves as they show their true feelings.
I like that this is a pretty low angst romance, most of the drama happening in the first couple of chapters. I wasn't too sure on how often and how far Kingsley's teasing went as it often had Ethan thinking negatively of himself and occasionally others but it leads to them learning how to better communicate. They are a lovely couple once they decide on what they want and perfectly balance each other. It's a romance in a wonderful setting as well, snow in a small town celebrating winter/Christmas and we also meet a couple of locals who I'm hoping to hear more from soon.
Ethan may or may not have crushed on Kingsley for several years and is also under the impression he strongly dislikes him. It makes for some entertaining moments but a lot of it is down to misunderstandings, miscommunications or Kingsley's teasing going just a bit too far. Kingsley clearly likes Ethan, more than likes even but doesn't necessarily have the best way of showing it. When they get stranded in Wintertown, it's a chance to start over, reconnect as friends themselves but it quickly evolves as they show their true feelings.
I like that this is a pretty low angst romance, most of the drama happening in the first couple of chapters. I wasn't too sure on how often and how far Kingsley's teasing went as it often had Ethan thinking negatively of himself and occasionally others but it leads to them learning how to better communicate. They are a lovely couple once they decide on what they want and perfectly balance each other. It's a romance in a wonderful setting as well, snow in a small town celebrating winter/Christmas and we also meet a couple of locals who I'm hoping to hear more from soon.
December 27, 2022
What starts as a series of uncomfortable moments, mishaps and miscommunication ends in a wonderful holiday romance! Such a fun read with some of my favorite tropes.
Kingsley is the best friend of Ethan’s older brother. They have lived next door to each other forever and now attend the same college. Their relationship over the years has been a series of misunderstandings with Kingsley and Ethan believing that each other dislikes the other when that could not be farther from the truth. Ethan has been harboring a crush on Kingsley for ages and Kingsley has always been fascinated by Ethan. When their trip back home for holiday break turns into a series of travel nightmares, these two are thrown together and land in a adorable holiday town. Their discovery of each others true feelings against the backdrop of holiday fun is positively sweet. Ethan’s character is shy, nervous and unsure of himself which is such a contrast to Kingsley’s teasing and confident nature. I appreciated the dual POV as I think it helped with the storyline. I think I would have gotten a completely different vibe for Kingsley had his POV not been shared.
I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. This town and its winter magic are the perfect setting for holiday romances. Fingers crossed for John and Austin’s story next!
Kingsley is the best friend of Ethan’s older brother. They have lived next door to each other forever and now attend the same college. Their relationship over the years has been a series of misunderstandings with Kingsley and Ethan believing that each other dislikes the other when that could not be farther from the truth. Ethan has been harboring a crush on Kingsley for ages and Kingsley has always been fascinated by Ethan. When their trip back home for holiday break turns into a series of travel nightmares, these two are thrown together and land in a adorable holiday town. Their discovery of each others true feelings against the backdrop of holiday fun is positively sweet. Ethan’s character is shy, nervous and unsure of himself which is such a contrast to Kingsley’s teasing and confident nature. I appreciated the dual POV as I think it helped with the storyline. I think I would have gotten a completely different vibe for Kingsley had his POV not been shared.
I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. This town and its winter magic are the perfect setting for holiday romances. Fingers crossed for John and Austin’s story next!
December 29, 2022
This is a fairly new to me author and I am glad that I picked this book up. I really liked it. It was well written and very easy to read. This is the story of Ethan Wang and Kingsley Sharp. Ethan and Kingsley have been neighbors since they were 7 years old. Kingsley and Ethans big brother are best friends. Ethan was the shy younger brother who played with Kingsley's younger sister. Ethan is shy and studying to become a veterinarian. Due to a misunderstanding, he believes that Kingsley does not like him. Of course, because Ethan has had a massive crush on him since he was young, he avoids Kingsley at all costs. So of course when Ethan is flying home for Christmas, Kingsley is on the same flight. Worse, they are sitting side by each for the flight. Kingsley is attracted to Ethan but believes that Ethan doesn't like him. Well throw in engine troubles, an emergency landing and one bed in the B&B; there is lots of excitement ahead. Being trapped for a couple of days while waiting for the plane to be repaired, it gives Ethan and KIngsley a chance to honestly get to know each other and enjoy all the christmas events that the town is hosting. Will the Doves of Destiny bring them together or end their crushes forever. This is their story. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to more by this author.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest opinion.
December 23, 2022
Ethan is headed home for Christmas from college when he finds himself seated next to his brother’s best friend. This shouldn’t be a problem, they’ve known each other for years, except Kingsley hates him and Ethan has had a crush on him since they met when he was 9.
Kingsley has known that Ethan hates him because he has always avoided him whenever they are in the same place. That still doesn’t keep Kingsley from wanting to get closer to Ethan, as he has wanted to do for years. He hopes that might happen on the plane as they are stuck side by side for 5 hours, but no such luck.
Things change when the plane develops engine trouble and they are forced to land in a small town. Accommodations are few, and they finally get A room at a B&B where they will need to share a bed. Being thrown together leads to better communication, helping to correct the miscommunication of the last 10 years, and opening a path to maybe getting what both want.
This is a sweet holiday story with one shy young man and another more confident one trying to correct what they thought were truths while on a forced travel layover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kingsley has known that Ethan hates him because he has always avoided him whenever they are in the same place. That still doesn’t keep Kingsley from wanting to get closer to Ethan, as he has wanted to do for years. He hopes that might happen on the plane as they are stuck side by side for 5 hours, but no such luck.
Things change when the plane develops engine trouble and they are forced to land in a small town. Accommodations are few, and they finally get A room at a B&B where they will need to share a bed. Being thrown together leads to better communication, helping to correct the miscommunication of the last 10 years, and opening a path to maybe getting what both want.
This is a sweet holiday story with one shy young man and another more confident one trying to correct what they thought were truths while on a forced travel layover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2023
Evan is college student, intent on getting good grades and leaving behind his crushes and younger self. On his way home on winter break, his seat mate just happens to be one of the things he is trying to get over, namely his crush on his brother's best friend, Kingsley. But when they have to make an emergency stop in the middle of nowhere, they are forced to stay in a small B and B and there is only bed for the both of them. Kingsley is used to getting his way, but that is not the case with the sweet and cute brother of his best friend. His only hope is to take advantage of their forced proximity during this holiday disaster to show Evan how much he means to him.
This was a really cute and fun holiday romance. I just love friends to lovers and brother's best friend tropes. It is hard to see someone pine over unrequited feelings, but in this instance, it is a case of mutual admiration and attraction that finally leads to something real and just lovely. This was a very low angst and very sweet romance with a holiday setting. This book is sure to warm anyone's heart.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a really cute and fun holiday romance. I just love friends to lovers and brother's best friend tropes. It is hard to see someone pine over unrequited feelings, but in this instance, it is a case of mutual admiration and attraction that finally leads to something real and just lovely. This was a very low angst and very sweet romance with a holiday setting. This book is sure to warm anyone's heart.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 19, 2022
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What’s your favourite holiday romance trope? Well, no need to choose, this one has them all! Brother’s best friend. Travel plans went array. Snowed in at the Inn. Smalltown that loves Christmas. Forced proximity. Check, check, and check.
Ethan and Kingsley have known each other for years, living next door to each other, and being best friends with each other's siblings. They’re also convinced that the other hates them.
When they find themselves on the same plane going home for the holidays, and end up getting stuck in a cute holiday town, they finally get a chance to set the record straight. It was never hate…it was love all along. Now they just need to trust that it’s real.
This is a cute, quick holiday story that brings all feels, and sets the stage for some great matches to come.
What’s your favourite holiday romance trope? Well, no need to choose, this one has them all! Brother’s best friend. Travel plans went array. Snowed in at the Inn. Smalltown that loves Christmas. Forced proximity. Check, check, and check.
Ethan and Kingsley have known each other for years, living next door to each other, and being best friends with each other's siblings. They’re also convinced that the other hates them.
When they find themselves on the same plane going home for the holidays, and end up getting stuck in a cute holiday town, they finally get a chance to set the record straight. It was never hate…it was love all along. Now they just need to trust that it’s real.
This is a cute, quick holiday story that brings all feels, and sets the stage for some great matches to come.
December 23, 2022
This is a super sweet holiday romance for Ethan and Kingsley. There are myriad tropes to explore: nerd/jock, best friend’s brother, only one bed, and magically quirky small town full of true love vibes and seasonal cheer not least among them. Even conventions that usually don’t land for me: terrible communication skills, misunderstandings based on the flimsiest of pretexts, a character who annoys the other because he finds the response it gets “cute,” all have their charm here (ok, maybe not the schoolyard teasing as affection thing, that’s always a miss for me, but the others for sure), because these guys are young and shiny and earnest and a touch naive. Their “clueless but in a benevolent way” shtick fits with where they are in life (college age, and one with zero romantic experience at all). Realism and nuance are not the point of their story: love, fate, cuteness, holiday charm, lots of well meaning fluffiness, and a super sweet HEA are. If you’re in the mood for that kind of read, this romance will hit the spot.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.*
December 26, 2022
**I was given a free copy of this book to read and review for Gay Romance Reviews.**
3.5 STARS
When Ethan finds himself seated next to his ultimate crush on the plane home from college for the holidays he thinks it's probably his bad luck playing a part. When the plane is forced to make an emergency landing in a small town Ethan knows its his horrible luck. Kingsley Sharp has been the object of Ethan's desire since they met when Kingsley moved in next door when they were little. Ethan's brother and Kingsley quickly became best friends and Ethan always felt as if Kingsley didn't like him and was out to get him. When they ended up at the same college Ethan always steered clear of Kingsley.
Kingsley has always had an attraction for Ethan but they always seem to have this unknown wedge between them. When they find themselves snowed in waiting for the airline to let them know when their plane is fixed the small town charm and the closeness of the room has them opening up in ways neither expected.
This was a cute holiday read.
3.5 STARS
When Ethan finds himself seated next to his ultimate crush on the plane home from college for the holidays he thinks it's probably his bad luck playing a part. When the plane is forced to make an emergency landing in a small town Ethan knows its his horrible luck. Kingsley Sharp has been the object of Ethan's desire since they met when Kingsley moved in next door when they were little. Ethan's brother and Kingsley quickly became best friends and Ethan always felt as if Kingsley didn't like him and was out to get him. When they ended up at the same college Ethan always steered clear of Kingsley.
Kingsley has always had an attraction for Ethan but they always seem to have this unknown wedge between them. When they find themselves snowed in waiting for the airline to let them know when their plane is fixed the small town charm and the closeness of the room has them opening up in ways neither expected.
This was a cute holiday read.
December 28, 2022
Sugarplum sweetness
Thanks to a misunderstanding when 9 year old Ethan first met the slightly older Kingsley, the two have spent the next nearly 10 years at odds but secretly fascinated with each other. A winter storm and a plane malfunction land the pair in the picture perfect, Hallmark holiday town of Wintertown where the only available lodging anywhere in town was a single room at a B & B containing a single bed. Cue up what seems all the tropes and you get this book. It’s low angst, super sweet, and somewhat over the top with more than a few contractions, but still a cute holiday story worth spending a couple hours on. Ethan reminds me of a hedgehog, very prickly and defensive thanks to being unintentionally insulted long ago and desperately trying to hide his crush on Kingsley. Kingsley very much puts me in mind of the little boy trying to get the attention of the cute girl (or in this case boy) by pulling pigtails. Break out the hot cocoa and settle in for a pleasant read.
3 1/2 stars
Thanks to a misunderstanding when 9 year old Ethan first met the slightly older Kingsley, the two have spent the next nearly 10 years at odds but secretly fascinated with each other. A winter storm and a plane malfunction land the pair in the picture perfect, Hallmark holiday town of Wintertown where the only available lodging anywhere in town was a single room at a B & B containing a single bed. Cue up what seems all the tropes and you get this book. It’s low angst, super sweet, and somewhat over the top with more than a few contractions, but still a cute holiday story worth spending a couple hours on. Ethan reminds me of a hedgehog, very prickly and defensive thanks to being unintentionally insulted long ago and desperately trying to hide his crush on Kingsley. Kingsley very much puts me in mind of the little boy trying to get the attention of the cute girl (or in this case boy) by pulling pigtails. Break out the hot cocoa and settle in for a pleasant read.
3 1/2 stars
January 11, 2024
So many tropes! Love this cute holiday tale! Ethan is at the airport to head home from college for the holidays when he sees how brother's best friend, Kingsley, getting on the same plane as him. They go to the same school but have avoided each other since they're both under the impression they hate each other. Guess what! They don't! They both have crushes that they're really bad at dealing with. Ethan curses his luck when he ends up sitting next to him on the flight and things get worse when they're engine trouble, forcing an emergency landing in Wintertown. Perfect timing for a holiday festival!
These two misread almost everything the other one does, and when they're stuck with the last run in town and there's only one bed, they don't think things could get worse. But wait, there's more! Ethan only packed textbooks because he figured he has enough clothes at home 🤦♀️ This poor guy is really getting tortured! Luckily, their mutual attraction eventually comes out and suddenly this disaster is fate finally getting them together!
Ethan is a virgin and super excited that his first time is with his big crush, especially after thinking Kingsley was straight this whole time. Their scenes are steamy and full of passion with all the details. Nothing kinky, but they really don't need it.
There are some sweet laughs as these two navigate being stuck with each other for the first time ever. There's definitely way more nerves than laughs though, especially after dealing with an emergency landing and a blown tire on their way to the hotel. These poor guys!
Overall, this is a fun holiday read with all the tropes you can handle! It's sure to make you smile, but it also may make you crave some hot cocoa.
CW: emergency plane landing and minor car accident
These two misread almost everything the other one does, and when they're stuck with the last run in town and there's only one bed, they don't think things could get worse. But wait, there's more! Ethan only packed textbooks because he figured he has enough clothes at home 🤦♀️ This poor guy is really getting tortured! Luckily, their mutual attraction eventually comes out and suddenly this disaster is fate finally getting them together!
Ethan is a virgin and super excited that his first time is with his big crush, especially after thinking Kingsley was straight this whole time. Their scenes are steamy and full of passion with all the details. Nothing kinky, but they really don't need it.
There are some sweet laughs as these two navigate being stuck with each other for the first time ever. There's definitely way more nerves than laughs though, especially after dealing with an emergency landing and a blown tire on their way to the hotel. These poor guys!
Overall, this is a fun holiday read with all the tropes you can handle! It's sure to make you smile, but it also may make you crave some hot cocoa.
CW: emergency plane landing and minor car accident
December 27, 2022
This is so many tropes rolled into one, forced proximity, brother's best friend, unrequited crush, only one bed, travel mishap - you name it and it's here. That's not a criticism though, not in the slightest. Nothing wrong with a trope or two.
For the most part I liked both Kingsley and Ethan - although I had a few moments where Ethan annoyed me, and had a hard time believing anyone can be as nice and understanding as Kingsley, although perhaps that's more a me thing than anyone else.
This is sweet, fluffy, and full of holiday moments, it could be a hallmark movie. That's a good thing, I love hallmark movies, it's perfectly light and romantic and festive and almost everything you could want in a christmas romance. It's not 5 stars because it's almost too sweet, and I found it a little preachy in places too.
Overall I enjoyed it though, and if you want tropey goodness full of christmas cheer and sweet fluffiness then this is for you.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
For the most part I liked both Kingsley and Ethan - although I had a few moments where Ethan annoyed me, and had a hard time believing anyone can be as nice and understanding as Kingsley, although perhaps that's more a me thing than anyone else.
This is sweet, fluffy, and full of holiday moments, it could be a hallmark movie. That's a good thing, I love hallmark movies, it's perfectly light and romantic and festive and almost everything you could want in a christmas romance. It's not 5 stars because it's almost too sweet, and I found it a little preachy in places too.
Overall I enjoyed it though, and if you want tropey goodness full of christmas cheer and sweet fluffiness then this is for you.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 27, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
This book takes a bit of suspension of disbelief, in particular where the plane and its repairs are concerned. But if you can go with that, there’s a sweetness to this story that I really enjoyed. The author uses several classic tropes that fit incredibly well together to great success. That being said, I did finish this book with mixed feelings.
The author does a nice job of giving enough backstory that it doesn’t feel out of the blue, despite their quick leap to being in love. And Kingsley wants nothing more than to take care of Ethan and show him his heart. Ethan is a little slower to let Kingsley in, and it makes sense as to why. Together, they have good chemistry, and I enjoyed them finally getting together.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
This book takes a bit of suspension of disbelief, in particular where the plane and its repairs are concerned. But if you can go with that, there’s a sweetness to this story that I really enjoyed. The author uses several classic tropes that fit incredibly well together to great success. That being said, I did finish this book with mixed feelings.
The author does a nice job of giving enough backstory that it doesn’t feel out of the blue, despite their quick leap to being in love. And Kingsley wants nothing more than to take care of Ethan and show him his heart. Ethan is a little slower to let Kingsley in, and it makes sense as to why. Together, they have good chemistry, and I enjoyed them finally getting together.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
March 24, 2023
I enjoyed this M/M romance story with all of the characters. The two main characters were Ethan Wang and Kingsley Sharp.
Ethan Wang is in college to become a vet. He decides to visit family for the holidays. While on the plane home he see his brother's best friend. He has a huge crush on this guy. But the guy doesn't know. He also think that the guy hates him. Also during the trip home the plane has some trouble and has to land.
Kingsley Sharp is in college. He decides to visit family for the holidays.
While on the plane he see his best friend brother. The guy sets next to him. He is happy to see him but the guy doesn't want to talk yo him. While on the trip home to see family the plane start to have trouble and they have to land. Now he struck with the guy.
This was a fun story to read. It had action, adventure and drama throughout. It had a few giggles throughout.
I received a complimentary copy via Booksprout. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
Ethan Wang is in college to become a vet. He decides to visit family for the holidays. While on the plane home he see his brother's best friend. He has a huge crush on this guy. But the guy doesn't know. He also think that the guy hates him. Also during the trip home the plane has some trouble and has to land.
Kingsley Sharp is in college. He decides to visit family for the holidays.
While on the plane he see his best friend brother. The guy sets next to him. He is happy to see him but the guy doesn't want to talk yo him. While on the trip home to see family the plane start to have trouble and they have to land. Now he struck with the guy.
This was a fun story to read. It had action, adventure and drama throughout. It had a few giggles throughout.
I received a complimentary copy via Booksprout. This is my honest unbiased opinions.
January 23, 2024
3.5 stars
This was a cute little read and I enjoyed the setting of Wintertown, along with the doves of destiny, very much. Kingsley and Ethan have known each other for roughly 10 years and it has been 10 years of misunderstandings and poor communication. When they are finally in a situation alone, they're forced to communicate and share their feelings. I was worried that they wouldn't be able to get everything worked out before the end of the book. Then when everything seems to have worked out and there's a little under halfway to go, I got really worried about a dreaded 75% break up. I'm pleased to say, they learned how to talk to each other and there's no drama that happens at the 75% mark. While I enjoyed elements of the story, I wasn't in love with anything. Both of the characters were kind of bland and I was more interested in Austin and Jim. Their book is definitely on my TBR.
This was a cute little read and I enjoyed the setting of Wintertown, along with the doves of destiny, very much. Kingsley and Ethan have known each other for roughly 10 years and it has been 10 years of misunderstandings and poor communication. When they are finally in a situation alone, they're forced to communicate and share their feelings. I was worried that they wouldn't be able to get everything worked out before the end of the book. Then when everything seems to have worked out and there's a little under halfway to go, I got really worried about a dreaded 75% break up. I'm pleased to say, they learned how to talk to each other and there's no drama that happens at the 75% mark. While I enjoyed elements of the story, I wasn't in love with anything. Both of the characters were kind of bland and I was more interested in Austin and Jim. Their book is definitely on my TBR.
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