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Mayberry Protectors
The Holiday Experiment
Wanted:
Single, hot, young man to sweep…my best friend’s brother off his feet.
Enzo
After failing big in Boston, I’m back home with my tail between my legs.
And then somehow I rope myself into getting Carson’s dating life in order.
We make a bet. Get him a boyfriend before Christmas or I lose and I have to do what he says.
Only considering the feelings I still harbor for him, losing may not be such a bad idea.
Carson
Everyone tells me I’m a workaholic.
What I really am is a man with a broken heart.
Until I get the wind knocked off my feet by my brother’s best friend. Under the mistletoe. Because apparently my life is anything but subtle.
He’s hell bent on getting me a boyfriend that is not him, but he’s all I can think about.
This little holiday experiment between us is going to end up in disaster. I know it.
I just hope it doesn’t leave me with more pieces to pick up.
The Holiday Experiment is a Christmas standalone and contains a young musician trying to find his place in the world, an almost forty-year-old workaholic that can’t catch a break, an adorable goddaughter that seems to repeat all the bad words and a witchy mom that loves to bake magical cakes and solve problems.
Enzo
After failing big in Boston, I’m back home with my tail between my legs.
And then somehow I rope myself into getting Carson’s dating life in order.
We make a bet. Get him a boyfriend before Christmas or I lose and I have to do what he says.
Only considering the feelings I still harbor for him, losing may not be such a bad idea.
Carson
Everyone tells me I’m a workaholic.
What I really am is a man with a broken heart.
Until I get the wind knocked off my feet by my brother’s best friend. Under the mistletoe. Because apparently my life is anything but subtle.
He’s hell bent on getting me a boyfriend that is not him, but he’s all I can think about.
This little holiday experiment between us is going to end up in disaster. I know it.
I just hope it doesn’t leave me with more pieces to pick up.
The Holiday Experiment is a Christmas standalone and contains a young musician trying to find his place in the world, an almost forty-year-old workaholic that can’t catch a break, an adorable goddaughter that seems to repeat all the bad words and a witchy mom that loves to bake magical cakes and solve problems.
336 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2022
About the author
Rhys Everly
34 books192 followersRhys Everly-Lawless is a hopeless romantic who loves happily-ever-afters.
Which would explain why he loves writing them.
When he's not passionately typing out his next book, you can find him cuddling his dog, feeding his husband, or taking long walks letting those plot bunnies breed ferociously in his head.
He writes contemporary gay romances as Rhys Everly and LGBTQ+ urban fantasy and paranormal romances as Rhys Lawless.
You can find him and all his latest projects on rhyswritesromance.com
Which would explain why he loves writing them.
When he's not passionately typing out his next book, you can find him cuddling his dog, feeding his husband, or taking long walks letting those plot bunnies breed ferociously in his head.
He writes contemporary gay romances as Rhys Everly and LGBTQ+ urban fantasy and paranormal romances as Rhys Lawless.
You can find him and all his latest projects on rhyswritesromance.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
October 29, 2022
Enzo and Carson are a really adorabke couple. I loved that Enzo got his teenage crush in the end. My only gripe is that while we know Carsons previous relatuonship ended and why, it seemed like there should still be something there.... holding him back. Like a letter or something he could use as a this is why im undateable. A physical thing Enzo vould have gotten rid of... also I wasnt ever sure why Enzo left and went to Boston to begin with....
December 8, 2022
3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good spice but I didn’t really care much for either of the characters, Enzo was a bit whiny and I just didn’t really feel the connection that him and Carson were supposed to have.
Good spice but I didn’t really care much for either of the characters, Enzo was a bit whiny and I just didn’t really feel the connection that him and Carson were supposed to have.
November 6, 2022
4.5 stars!
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Enzo is a young guy who left home for the big city and has had a super disappointing situation happen to him in his professional life and he’s left with basically nothing and has returned to his home and his small town. He struggles with feelings of worth because of what happened and he feels like he’s a naive idiot. He is happy to see his mother even though he’s not thrilled at 23 to be back living with her. He also reconnects with his best friend Cole and Cole’s daughter – his goddaughter Ella. Ella’s mother is deceased and Cole is a single parent who could use the help. However, it’s Cole’s older brother Carson who has been the subject of Enzo’s desire since he was a teenager. He’s never pursued Carson who is now single because reasons.
Carson owns a restaurant and he’s super busy. He has let his business take over his life except for where he helps out his much younger brother with his niece. His last boyfriend left him and the island and told him he was a boring workaholic. Carson hasn’t gotten over that sting and he’s basically not dated since. Enzo and Cole are giving him crap about it and his moaning about being old and washed up and boring and chronically single so Enzo and Carson make a bet that Enzo can find him a boyfriend before Christmas. If he wins, Carson has to give him $1000 which is about $990 more than he has now. If he loses, he has to do whatever Carson tells him to do for a day.
Enzo takes an adorable picture of Carson with a rescue dog that the gets coerced into taking home and sets up a new dating profile for him. He gets hits right away and Enzo helps him talk to the guys. He goes on some dates, but there is no spark and it seems like every time he turns around Enzo is in the room too. But the real date he wants is with Enzo – but he’s worried about their age gap. Turns out that Carson is lusting after Enzo right back.
Eventually after several less than stellar dates, Carson gives in to his lust and he and Enzo kiss. But then Enzo tries to ignore it. Carson won’t let him. They end up doing more but Enzo is convinced that he can never be enough for Carson because he’s vowed to never fall in love and be devastated like his mom was when his dad died. Carson tries to convince him. Others try to talk to him, but Enzo sees what he wants to. It’s almost Christmas and it’s really not clear who is going to win this bet when Enzo misinterprets what he sees and Carson has to go after him 😉
Full disclosure that this is the first book I’ve read by this author. This was a cute story with minimal angst about two guys who have obviously feelings for each other but struggle to find their way to each other. There are a lot of cute moments with kids and dogs and coworkers. The guys in this story have to figure out how to communicate with each other. Cole and Enzo struggle as well with their changed relationship and Cole still recovering and trying to be a single dad. Cole’s situation further convinces Enzo that he’s made the right decision to forsake love as he watches Cole throw himself into work to keep from dealing with his loss. Carson and Enzo’s mother are hilarious together. She’s a tough cookie who calls it as she sees it and is there for her son. She has to talk to some sense into him as well and their heart to heart served up some realness about what it’s like to lose a spouse/father and how everybody struggle and no things don’t go easily or perfectly with grief. There are plenty of tender and revealing moments a well between Caron and Enzo when they are finally honest about things. I really enjoyed this story and watching these two guys figure out their path despite some baggage and obstacles. Enzo grows up a lot and realizes he’s holding on to things are really going to hold him back – but only if he lets them. Carson needs to more on as well and he really wants that with Enzo. All in all, a nice HEA. Recommended.
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Enzo is a young guy who left home for the big city and has had a super disappointing situation happen to him in his professional life and he’s left with basically nothing and has returned to his home and his small town. He struggles with feelings of worth because of what happened and he feels like he’s a naive idiot. He is happy to see his mother even though he’s not thrilled at 23 to be back living with her. He also reconnects with his best friend Cole and Cole’s daughter – his goddaughter Ella. Ella’s mother is deceased and Cole is a single parent who could use the help. However, it’s Cole’s older brother Carson who has been the subject of Enzo’s desire since he was a teenager. He’s never pursued Carson who is now single because reasons.
Carson owns a restaurant and he’s super busy. He has let his business take over his life except for where he helps out his much younger brother with his niece. His last boyfriend left him and the island and told him he was a boring workaholic. Carson hasn’t gotten over that sting and he’s basically not dated since. Enzo and Cole are giving him crap about it and his moaning about being old and washed up and boring and chronically single so Enzo and Carson make a bet that Enzo can find him a boyfriend before Christmas. If he wins, Carson has to give him $1000 which is about $990 more than he has now. If he loses, he has to do whatever Carson tells him to do for a day.
Enzo takes an adorable picture of Carson with a rescue dog that the gets coerced into taking home and sets up a new dating profile for him. He gets hits right away and Enzo helps him talk to the guys. He goes on some dates, but there is no spark and it seems like every time he turns around Enzo is in the room too. But the real date he wants is with Enzo – but he’s worried about their age gap. Turns out that Carson is lusting after Enzo right back.
Eventually after several less than stellar dates, Carson gives in to his lust and he and Enzo kiss. But then Enzo tries to ignore it. Carson won’t let him. They end up doing more but Enzo is convinced that he can never be enough for Carson because he’s vowed to never fall in love and be devastated like his mom was when his dad died. Carson tries to convince him. Others try to talk to him, but Enzo sees what he wants to. It’s almost Christmas and it’s really not clear who is going to win this bet when Enzo misinterprets what he sees and Carson has to go after him 😉
Full disclosure that this is the first book I’ve read by this author. This was a cute story with minimal angst about two guys who have obviously feelings for each other but struggle to find their way to each other. There are a lot of cute moments with kids and dogs and coworkers. The guys in this story have to figure out how to communicate with each other. Cole and Enzo struggle as well with their changed relationship and Cole still recovering and trying to be a single dad. Cole’s situation further convinces Enzo that he’s made the right decision to forsake love as he watches Cole throw himself into work to keep from dealing with his loss. Carson and Enzo’s mother are hilarious together. She’s a tough cookie who calls it as she sees it and is there for her son. She has to talk to some sense into him as well and their heart to heart served up some realness about what it’s like to lose a spouse/father and how everybody struggle and no things don’t go easily or perfectly with grief. There are plenty of tender and revealing moments a well between Caron and Enzo when they are finally honest about things. I really enjoyed this story and watching these two guys figure out their path despite some baggage and obstacles. Enzo grows up a lot and realizes he’s holding on to things are really going to hold him back – but only if he lets them. Carson needs to more on as well and he really wants that with Enzo. All in all, a nice HEA. Recommended.
October 31, 2022
GUHHHHH this book! *dreamy sigh*
The chemistry between Enzo and Carson is SO GOOOOOOD. I'm not normally much a fan of the age-gap trope, but I LOVE best friend's brother/brother's best friend romances so I jumped into this one with both feet. And it turns out, I really like how the age gap plays out! Enzo has had a crush on his BFF Cole's older brother Carson since he started knowing what sexual attraction was. Carson, at 16 years older than Cole and Enzo and approaching the big four-oh, was basically a babysitter/second parent to Enzo and his lil' bro when they were kids, and is surprised when little Enzo comes back to town after being gone for a number of years and has turned into a MAN - and a hunky on at that!
I didn't fully buy into Enzo's reasons for being so anti-relationship/anti-love, but I guess at 23 I was stupid about lots of things too. I did totally feel for Carson, feeling like he's over the hill and a workaholic and why on earth would anyone want a relationship with him, let alone someone as young and beautiful and talented as Enzo. It's easy to get in your own head and convince yourself you don't deserve good things, or love.
There were so many hilarious moments in this book, mostly stemming from Enzo trying to set Carson up on dates to settle their bet. Some of those dates sounded really fun!! The mutual pining also set my soul on fire, and my heart physically ached for them both several times when they're both wanting so badly but so scared to reach out. ACK, I can't stand it, give me more!!
The Holiday Experiment is a standalone, but it seems to be set in Rhys Everly's Mayberry Protectors universe. I believe there are spoilers for Mayberry Protectors book 1, Mother Parker, in this book, and I think some of the characters/set-up would have been a bit less confusing if you read that first. There's also a couple that shows up partway through the book that's part of another book called Street Love. So there are some treats for regular readers of Rhys Everly, which is always fun! I feel like I need to go read the Mayberry Protectors series now, though!
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
The chemistry between Enzo and Carson is SO GOOOOOOD. I'm not normally much a fan of the age-gap trope, but I LOVE best friend's brother/brother's best friend romances so I jumped into this one with both feet. And it turns out, I really like how the age gap plays out! Enzo has had a crush on his BFF Cole's older brother Carson since he started knowing what sexual attraction was. Carson, at 16 years older than Cole and Enzo and approaching the big four-oh, was basically a babysitter/second parent to Enzo and his lil' bro when they were kids, and is surprised when little Enzo comes back to town after being gone for a number of years and has turned into a MAN - and a hunky on at that!
I didn't fully buy into Enzo's reasons for being so anti-relationship/anti-love, but I guess at 23 I was stupid about lots of things too. I did totally feel for Carson, feeling like he's over the hill and a workaholic and why on earth would anyone want a relationship with him, let alone someone as young and beautiful and talented as Enzo. It's easy to get in your own head and convince yourself you don't deserve good things, or love.
There were so many hilarious moments in this book, mostly stemming from Enzo trying to set Carson up on dates to settle their bet. Some of those dates sounded really fun!! The mutual pining also set my soul on fire, and my heart physically ached for them both several times when they're both wanting so badly but so scared to reach out. ACK, I can't stand it, give me more!!
The Holiday Experiment is a standalone, but it seems to be set in Rhys Everly's Mayberry Protectors universe. I believe there are spoilers for Mayberry Protectors book 1, Mother Parker, in this book, and I think some of the characters/set-up would have been a bit less confusing if you read that first. There's also a couple that shows up partway through the book that's part of another book called Street Love. So there are some treats for regular readers of Rhys Everly, which is always fun! I feel like I need to go read the Mayberry Protectors series now, though!
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
November 3, 2022
The Holiday Experiment is a wonderful best friend's brother, age gap Christmas romance between Enzo and Carson.
Enzo has always crushed on Carson. Now he's back in town after a dismal end to his time in Boston, and he sets his sights on helping Carson find a boyfriend by Christmas, even if he'd rather have the job himself. Carson surprises himself with his attraction to Enzo, given how long he's known the younger man and his recent crush on Hwan (Mother Parker). They dance around their attraction to each other, even after a kiss, even after Enzo denies liking Carson and continues to set him up on dates. They're just drawn back to each other and their chemistry soon ignites. It's clear to read how much they like each other, though Enzo's back and forth gets a bit confusing for Carson. Also, not too sure on bathroom shenanigans whilst on a date with someone else...
I enjoyed the other characters involved as well. Cole, Carson's brother and Enzo's best friend is having a rough time of it,. Hoping we hear more from him in the future, and his adorable little girl, Ella. The staff at Carson's bar, The Grill, are a fun and supportive group, more like family the way they tease. And Lilian, Enzo's mum and the town's witch, is so lovely. I love how the two interact, loving and supportive but no qualms about swearing and pushing when needed.
Overall, an enjoyable festive read with one friend trying to help another even though it's actually each other they want.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Enzo has always crushed on Carson. Now he's back in town after a dismal end to his time in Boston, and he sets his sights on helping Carson find a boyfriend by Christmas, even if he'd rather have the job himself. Carson surprises himself with his attraction to Enzo, given how long he's known the younger man and his recent crush on Hwan (Mother Parker). They dance around their attraction to each other, even after a kiss, even after Enzo denies liking Carson and continues to set him up on dates. They're just drawn back to each other and their chemistry soon ignites. It's clear to read how much they like each other, though Enzo's back and forth gets a bit confusing for Carson. Also, not too sure on bathroom shenanigans whilst on a date with someone else...
I enjoyed the other characters involved as well. Cole, Carson's brother and Enzo's best friend is having a rough time of it,. Hoping we hear more from him in the future, and his adorable little girl, Ella. The staff at Carson's bar, The Grill, are a fun and supportive group, more like family the way they tease. And Lilian, Enzo's mum and the town's witch, is so lovely. I love how the two interact, loving and supportive but no qualms about swearing and pushing when needed.
Overall, an enjoyable festive read with one friend trying to help another even though it's actually each other they want.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
December 31, 2023
Enzo returned home due to a devastating professional setback. One thing he is grateful for is the chance to spend time with his best friend and his goddaughter. Growing up he had a crush on his BFF’s much older brother Carson. Carson had some setbacks himself but his were personal. His boyfriend left him for a younger man. Adding to his problems he is in love with a young, unattainable friend. When he sees Enzo again he is attracted but knows he is too old for him. Both men are carrying some baggage. Enzo especially has to do some soul searching before he is able to make a relationship work. The book ends in a sweet epilogue/HEA. I recommend it to anyone who likes spicy, low-angst, age-gap romance.
October 28, 2022
I love this kind of books, friends (kind of) to lovers. This one is very sweet and I loved that it was not insta relationship, because Enzo is in love with Carson since he was a teenager and Carson the best best friend's big brother .
When Enzon return home devastated with his failure as a singer, he rekindle his friendship with Cole, his best friend and Carson, who is heartbroken and feeling old. Enzon decides to help Cole to find a boyfriend befor Carson's 40 birthday. And then...you have to read the book
A great book, easy to read
I really loved it
When Enzon return home devastated with his failure as a singer, he rekindle his friendship with Cole, his best friend and Carson, who is heartbroken and feeling old. Enzon decides to help Cole to find a boyfriend befor Carson's 40 birthday. And then...you have to read the book
A great book, easy to read
I really loved it
October 29, 2022
This age-gap romance was great, and I was easily engrossed in the story. Enzo and Carson are terrific, and the secondary characters of Enzo’s mum Lilian, his best friend Cole and his adorable daughter Ella, Carson's restaurant staff, plus Hwan and Patrick from the previous book in the series added a lot of hilarity and depth to their story.
I loved this slow-burn, funny, emotional read with some angst and steam, and it was a joy to read from the first page to the last. Highly recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
I loved this slow-burn, funny, emotional read with some angst and steam, and it was a joy to read from the first page to the last. Highly recommended.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
October 30, 2022
I'm so in love with this Mayberry Protectors series. The characters are all amazing and so much fun! I loved how Carson & Enzo were both so oblivious about how perfect they were for each other, and we need to see more of Enzo's mom. I definitely don't want to stop reading, not even to go to work, it was that great. As with everything Rhys writes, I highly recommend this great book!
October 31, 2022
I liked both Carson and Enzo, and I adored Georgie/Honeybee the pupper, so sweet. Both guys carry around 'issues',which they have to work hard to overcome. Nicely written, with some humour and lots of friendship. An uplifting read.
December 26, 2023
What a fun holiday visit to Mayberry Holmes where the only action is kissing and denying feelings. This was a sweet romance of people figuring out what they really want and need in life. I also love how all the rest of the friends figured things out before Enzo and Carson. #CMCon24
October 28, 2022
The Holiday Experiment by Rhys Everly is a Mayberry Holm standalone Christmas novel. It is the story of Carson and Enzo. Carson has lived in Mayberry Holm all his life and has taken over his parents’ restaurant. He lives in his family home with his brother who is going through hard times after the death of his wife and his 2 year old niece. He is bogged down with his life that consists of work, work, and more work and helping with his niece. He is approaching 40 on Christmas Day and feeling old which depresses him even more. Enzo grew up on Mayberry Holm but left to pursue a career in Boston which at first looked like it was going to work but then crashed and burned so he returned to the island and is living with his mother. He is also Carson’s brother’s best friend and has been in love with Carson since he was a teenager. He runs into Carson and they both feel a spark of attraction but neither wants to act on it because there could be repercussions. However, he also hears a conversation that Carson needs to get out and date so he makes a wager with him that he can find him a boyfriend by Christmas. What ensues is a bunch of interesting dates that might have worked but Carson really finds himself wanting to be with Enzo. Enzo also feels the pull but he made a promise to himself that he would never fall in love so he tries to ignore it. As in all good romances this starts to fail and they find themselves kissing. Carson is wanting more and so does Enzo but he can’t give himself to Carson because of that promise. The story continues as they fall more for each other but Enzo keeps running away. Finally he does something that changes his mind so that they can have their happy ending. I liked this book, especially the characters. Carson is grumpy and somewhat clueless but plays along willingly. He is also hurt when Enzo won’t reciprocate his feelings. Enzo is funny and snarky but also suffering from what happened in his career and life and can’t seem to let go of it. The side characters were also interesting and tried to be helpful to both main characters. There was some angst that kept you reading to see if they could finally work everything out. I enjoy Mr. Everly’s books and this one was no exception. I highly recommend it and that you add it to your Christmas reading list this year.
November 3, 2022
This book was just what I needed to get into the holiday spirit.
Carson is lonely and alone, he has his job, and his brother along with his adorable niece and his friends but he's missing a partner. Someone who's attracted to him and will love him the way he is, not someone who trades him in for a younger model.
Enzo just moved back to his home island after his life blew up back in Boston. Now that he's back home living with his mom he needs a fresh start, a do over. He needs to find a job and get his friendship with his best friend Cole back on track. After all he's been gone so long he has to catch up with him and his goddaughter. He wasn't expecting to run back into Carson, he wasn't expecting to help him get dates, and he definitely wasn't expecting to fall in love with Carson all over again.
I really enjoyed all of the light humor and the sarcastic and witty comments in this story. The setting along with the characters are really well written, everyone has background detail so they all belong and add to the story. The storyline was so great, it took these two a while to eventually come together but once they did it was magical! I absolutely adored Carson's friends/employees trying to get him to take a break, to stop working so hard and to adopt a dog. I mean, who can say no when a dog chooses you. I really appreciated the great representation of pitbulls in this story, I adored the fact that the author said that they really are living dogs. (Which is true!)
I really enjoyed this story and I know you will too! Do yourself a favor and grab a copy, please! I'm also hoping Cole will get his own story at some point.
*I received an early copy of this book due to GRR and this is my honest review.*
Carson is lonely and alone, he has his job, and his brother along with his adorable niece and his friends but he's missing a partner. Someone who's attracted to him and will love him the way he is, not someone who trades him in for a younger model.
Enzo just moved back to his home island after his life blew up back in Boston. Now that he's back home living with his mom he needs a fresh start, a do over. He needs to find a job and get his friendship with his best friend Cole back on track. After all he's been gone so long he has to catch up with him and his goddaughter. He wasn't expecting to run back into Carson, he wasn't expecting to help him get dates, and he definitely wasn't expecting to fall in love with Carson all over again.
I really enjoyed all of the light humor and the sarcastic and witty comments in this story. The setting along with the characters are really well written, everyone has background detail so they all belong and add to the story. The storyline was so great, it took these two a while to eventually come together but once they did it was magical! I absolutely adored Carson's friends/employees trying to get him to take a break, to stop working so hard and to adopt a dog. I mean, who can say no when a dog chooses you. I really appreciated the great representation of pitbulls in this story, I adored the fact that the author said that they really are living dogs. (Which is true!)
I really enjoyed this story and I know you will too! Do yourself a favor and grab a copy, please! I'm also hoping Cole will get his own story at some point.
*I received an early copy of this book due to GRR and this is my honest review.*
October 25, 2022
🎀A Christmas baby who thinks he's past it: Enzo to the rescue!
I just love romances with small children and sweet and kind characters; this one's filled with a coterie of fun family and friends and set in the month leading up to Christmas and a milestone birthday. Ella, the tot, is at the little pitchers have big ears stage and pretty much charms whenever she's on the scene. Just about 40 Carson and early 20's Enzo, the main characters, are her uncle and godfather respectively, and get in on the child minding. But, obviously, she's not the principal thing on their mind😉.
The story contains a number of tried and true tropes (friends who matchmake, age gap, brother's best friend) and does them well. I liked that the crucial event that brings Enzo back to the island from the big city was not a ruined romance but instead related to his career ambitions. The romance definitely has steam and there's some humor, too; one of the matchmaking scenarios has baking puns that just don't stop.
It's entertaining and enjoyable. I read the prior book about Parker and bubble tea shop owner Hwan, Carson's previous younger man fixation, but this story can easily be read as a standalone.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I just love romances with small children and sweet and kind characters; this one's filled with a coterie of fun family and friends and set in the month leading up to Christmas and a milestone birthday. Ella, the tot, is at the little pitchers have big ears stage and pretty much charms whenever she's on the scene. Just about 40 Carson and early 20's Enzo, the main characters, are her uncle and godfather respectively, and get in on the child minding. But, obviously, she's not the principal thing on their mind😉.
The story contains a number of tried and true tropes (friends who matchmake, age gap, brother's best friend) and does them well. I liked that the crucial event that brings Enzo back to the island from the big city was not a ruined romance but instead related to his career ambitions. The romance definitely has steam and there's some humor, too; one of the matchmaking scenarios has baking puns that just don't stop.
It's entertaining and enjoyable. I read the prior book about Parker and bubble tea shop owner Hwan, Carson's previous younger man fixation, but this story can easily be read as a standalone.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
November 2, 2022
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Sometimes the place you ran from, is the exact place you should be.
What do you get when you have two men doing their best to avoid a personal life? A lot of interfering friends and family (love small towns)!!
Enzo and Carson are really nice guys, just trying to make do with their own heartbreaks that they’ve endured. Enzo has returned to his hometown to lick his wounds, living with his mother. It’s like he never left..living in his childhood home, seeing his teenage crush…
Carson has been throwing every waking minute into his restaurant. It’s easier that way. Until his friends decide it’s time he got a life. Next thing he knows, Enzo has talked him into letting him help get a boyfriend. The bet ends at Christmas.
Yup, helping your crush get dates sounds a like perfect plan.
Enzo and Carson are both likable guys (even if frustrating), as are the friends and family that surround them. With a lovely age gap, small-town vibes, and a Holiday happy ending, it’s a sweet story.
Sometimes the place you ran from, is the exact place you should be.
What do you get when you have two men doing their best to avoid a personal life? A lot of interfering friends and family (love small towns)!!
Enzo and Carson are really nice guys, just trying to make do with their own heartbreaks that they’ve endured. Enzo has returned to his hometown to lick his wounds, living with his mother. It’s like he never left..living in his childhood home, seeing his teenage crush…
Carson has been throwing every waking minute into his restaurant. It’s easier that way. Until his friends decide it’s time he got a life. Next thing he knows, Enzo has talked him into letting him help get a boyfriend. The bet ends at Christmas.
Yup, helping your crush get dates sounds a like perfect plan.
Enzo and Carson are both likable guys (even if frustrating), as are the friends and family that surround them. With a lovely age gap, small-town vibes, and a Holiday happy ending, it’s a sweet story.
December 5, 2022
This is a cute holiday romance. Enzo and Carson are perfect for each other, and it’s clear to pretty much everyone—including Enzo and Carson. Unfortunately, even though they both know the other is who they want, they both have their own issues that make it hard for them to both communicate that mutual desire to each other and to accept it for themselves. Carson gets there first. Enzo, having witnessed his mom’s devastation after his dad died, has sworn off love, so he takes longer to get with the program and go where his heart is leading him.
But it’s a fun journey. The dates Enzo comes up with for Carson and his blind dates are fun and interesting. And it’s funny to watch Enzo inadvertently thwart Carson’s love life by being a part of the dates—as his presence is always more interesting to Carson than any of the men he’s been set up with.
The side characters are fun too—very colorful and full of banter. This is my first Everly book, but I’m definitely interested now in reading his books about Hwan and Parker and Rafe and Pierce. And I’m wondering if Carson’s brother Cole will get a story, too. One can always hope.
I definitely recommend this if you are looking for a low angst, age-gap, mm romance with a holiday twist.
But it’s a fun journey. The dates Enzo comes up with for Carson and his blind dates are fun and interesting. And it’s funny to watch Enzo inadvertently thwart Carson’s love life by being a part of the dates—as his presence is always more interesting to Carson than any of the men he’s been set up with.
The side characters are fun too—very colorful and full of banter. This is my first Everly book, but I’m definitely interested now in reading his books about Hwan and Parker and Rafe and Pierce. And I’m wondering if Carson’s brother Cole will get a story, too. One can always hope.
I definitely recommend this if you are looking for a low angst, age-gap, mm romance with a holiday twist.
October 31, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
This was a good book that I enjoyed reading but there wasn’t anything that really made it stand out as an outstanding book. The plot was cute and I loved the blurb. I just didn’t love the story as much.
I liked Carson a lot although his constant thinking about the age gap between him and Enzo became annoying very quickly. He talks about being twice his age when I reality they are 23 & 39. (Yes it’s a an age gap but it’s not as big as he makes it sounds) Other than that I thought Carson was fun and sweet. He was a really nice guy and he really liked Enzo for who he was now.
Enzo I didn’t like as much. While he could be sweet he was also kind of mean to Carson. The back and forth of him acting on his feelings and then pushing Carson away happened too many times for me.
We met a lot of side characters but didn’t get to know any of them very well. I know some of them were in other books, but even the characters not in other books were not developed very much. The next character was Enzo’s mom.
This was a good Holiday read but not one I’ll be reading again.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
This was a good book that I enjoyed reading but there wasn’t anything that really made it stand out as an outstanding book. The plot was cute and I loved the blurb. I just didn’t love the story as much.
I liked Carson a lot although his constant thinking about the age gap between him and Enzo became annoying very quickly. He talks about being twice his age when I reality they are 23 & 39. (Yes it’s a an age gap but it’s not as big as he makes it sounds) Other than that I thought Carson was fun and sweet. He was a really nice guy and he really liked Enzo for who he was now.
Enzo I didn’t like as much. While he could be sweet he was also kind of mean to Carson. The back and forth of him acting on his feelings and then pushing Carson away happened too many times for me.
We met a lot of side characters but didn’t get to know any of them very well. I know some of them were in other books, but even the characters not in other books were not developed very much. The next character was Enzo’s mom.
This was a good Holiday read but not one I’ll be reading again.
I did receive a free ARC of this book but that did not influence my review.
November 3, 2022
I read this as a standalone, as I read though I realised it is part of an interconnected universe but I really enjoyed it as a solo title.
This is a best friends brother, age gap, matchmaker turned boyfriend Christmas romance with mutual pining and a sweet HEA. Also has the requisite cute baby and dog and meddling mother. All this mixed together is a perfect recipe for a sweet christmas romance with a dashing of heat. I enjoyed this, it was a fun little read and a lovely seasonal romance.
I liked the idea of Enzo's mum and her magic too, it all added to the almost whimsical nature of the story. I really liked his relationship with his mum too, it was the heart of the book for me. I did like the development of the relationship with Enzo and Carson too, it felt organic and natural and not too rushed. The chemistry between them was great too, you could almost feel it.
Great supporting cast too, I liked them all without exception.
This was a fun, light happy Christmas read and I'm glad I got the chance to read.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is a best friends brother, age gap, matchmaker turned boyfriend Christmas romance with mutual pining and a sweet HEA. Also has the requisite cute baby and dog and meddling mother. All this mixed together is a perfect recipe for a sweet christmas romance with a dashing of heat. I enjoyed this, it was a fun little read and a lovely seasonal romance.
I liked the idea of Enzo's mum and her magic too, it all added to the almost whimsical nature of the story. I really liked his relationship with his mum too, it was the heart of the book for me. I did like the development of the relationship with Enzo and Carson too, it felt organic and natural and not too rushed. The chemistry between them was great too, you could almost feel it.
Great supporting cast too, I liked them all without exception.
This was a fun, light happy Christmas read and I'm glad I got the chance to read.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 5, 2022
Closed doors, really lead to better rooms. After having high professional expectation in Boston, which are unmet, Enzo returns to Mayberry Holm at 23, to find his feet. Lilian, his Mom is a trooper, she encourages and ssupports Enzo to pursue his happy! Carson, is a workaholic who thinks he's past it and will never find a man. He is still slightly obsessing over his betraying ex, Darren, who after 10 years, declares he wants a younger man. He seeks counsel from his 2yr old niece, Ella. There are a cast of wonderful characters, whom I hope we hear from in the future. Carson, crushes on his best friend Hwan, who is dating Parker. Cole, Ella's Dad is Enzo's best friend. Enzo, has had a crush on Carson it seems like forever. Friends and family are closely entwined in the township and provide the fun, the support and lots of love. Does Enso stay? Does Carson find his inner young person. Will Carson open his eyes and see Enzo? Good story, nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 11, 2022
This is a cute Christmas read. This is the story of Enzo and Carson. Enzo is returning back home after a disasterous attempt at a music career in Boston. Since he doesn't know how long he will be back he immediately applies for a job. On the way to his job interview he literally runs into Carson. Carson is the older brother of his best friend. They have known each other for years. Carson is turning 40 on Christmas and is feeling every single one of those years. Feeling like he has nothing to offer anyone, he thinks that life is as good as it will get. A bet evolves where Enzo will find Carson a boyfriend by Christmas. Once Carson is happily in a relationship, Enzo is hoping his childhood crush will finally disappear. Since he doesn't believe in love, he needs to find Carson someone who does. This is their story. This is a low angst story. A sit down with a cup of hot chocolate and read away the afternoon type of story. A great start to the holiday season.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving my honest opinion.
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving my honest opinion.
October 29, 2022
This was a super cute holiday story about two men who really didn’t want to find love but it found them anyway!
Enzo and Carson were super cute together when they finally figured out the attraction went both ways. There were many times I just wanted to slap Enzo and yell at both of them but they got there and I loved the ending!
Enzo is best friends with Carson’s brother but there was not really any of the drama that usually goes along with a best friends brother romance. This was a pretty low angst book, mainly just the characters going back and forth on being together.
There were a few couples from other books that this author wrote (this is the first book I have read by them) in this book and I felt like I was missing a little bit of history (mainly to do with the Bubble tea shop). However, I didn’t find it took away from the story to not have read them.
I would definitely recommend this book.
Enzo and Carson were super cute together when they finally figured out the attraction went both ways. There were many times I just wanted to slap Enzo and yell at both of them but they got there and I loved the ending!
Enzo is best friends with Carson’s brother but there was not really any of the drama that usually goes along with a best friends brother romance. This was a pretty low angst book, mainly just the characters going back and forth on being together.
There were a few couples from other books that this author wrote (this is the first book I have read by them) in this book and I felt like I was missing a little bit of history (mainly to do with the Bubble tea shop). However, I didn’t find it took away from the story to not have read them.
I would definitely recommend this book.
November 4, 2022
There were so many things to like about this book. The crush on your brother's best friend trope is a favorite of mine and it was even neater that Carson is several years older than Enzo who has been crushing on him since he was a teenager. Enzo takes on the task of helping Carson get a life outside of life and responsibilities by helping him find a boyfriend knowing that he really wants him for himself. But as is often the case when a friend relationship is a part of the equation neither one immediately latches on to the other when each really wants the other. Some of the humor in this book comes from the dates that are set up but really were not what either wanted to lead to HEA. The angst came from both of these men wanting what was right in front of him. I was so glad when both of them got over themselves and their individual issues and into the relationship they needed to pursue with one another.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2022
Sweet holiday romance
I have to start by saying that I haven't read the first two books in this series yet, and I'm going to remedy that soon, so all of these characters are new to me. I loved that you really get the sense of family and belonging with this group of small town citizens. There were so many amazing characters along with our MC's Enzo and Carson. I liked that it was a double unrequited love story. Enzo has been crushing on his best friend's somewhat older brother (I do love an age gap!) since he was a teen. Carson seems to think forty is over the hill and has given up on love after a devastating heartbreak years ago. But a fun bet to find Carson a boyfriend gets all turned upside down in this sweet holiday romance featuring bossy coworkers, a copycat niece/goddaughter, a mystical mom, and an adorable dog.
I have to start by saying that I haven't read the first two books in this series yet, and I'm going to remedy that soon, so all of these characters are new to me. I loved that you really get the sense of family and belonging with this group of small town citizens. There were so many amazing characters along with our MC's Enzo and Carson. I liked that it was a double unrequited love story. Enzo has been crushing on his best friend's somewhat older brother (I do love an age gap!) since he was a teen. Carson seems to think forty is over the hill and has given up on love after a devastating heartbreak years ago. But a fun bet to find Carson a boyfriend gets all turned upside down in this sweet holiday romance featuring bossy coworkers, a copycat niece/goddaughter, a mystical mom, and an adorable dog.
November 2, 2022
The Holiday Experiment is a age-gap, brother’s best friend, slow burn romance, I like that this was a sweet story, both characters are adorable! Enzo and Carson know each other since forever, Enzo and Carson’s brother Cole are childhood best friends. Enzo is back home and they meet again, Enzo have a big crush on Carson but he decides that he never is going to fall in Love, but spending time with Carson and trying to set him up on date with a future boyfriend it’s what he wants. Carson is trying to get over someone else but seeing Enzo again wake feeling he doesn’t know what to do with them, so he agreed to the find a boyfriend before Christmas bet. These two just dance around each other and it takes time for them to finally get together but it’s so good when they finally accept their feelings for each other, this was lovely and a fun read and very steamy too! Enjoy!
November 2, 2022
I loved this age-gap, best friend’s brother’s story!
Enzo and Carson are sooo made for each other, everybody sees it (and there is more than one wager going on as to when they will finally get together!) except the two of them. Or better, Enzo has always crushed hard on his best friend’s older brother, but he has his reservations about love, so when Carson finally, and very unexpectedly starts to notice him as a grown-up man, he is the one pulling back.
Seeing him trying to find Carson a boyfriend is hilarious, though I must admit his back and forth with Carson was almost annoying at the end, I wanted to shake him and make him see what was right in front of him!
Lovely cast of meddling and super funny side-characters, and an appearance from the very first couple Rhys ever wrote, Rafe and Pierce from Street Love!
Enzo and Carson are sooo made for each other, everybody sees it (and there is more than one wager going on as to when they will finally get together!) except the two of them. Or better, Enzo has always crushed hard on his best friend’s older brother, but he has his reservations about love, so when Carson finally, and very unexpectedly starts to notice him as a grown-up man, he is the one pulling back.
Seeing him trying to find Carson a boyfriend is hilarious, though I must admit his back and forth with Carson was almost annoying at the end, I wanted to shake him and make him see what was right in front of him!
Lovely cast of meddling and super funny side-characters, and an appearance from the very first couple Rhys ever wrote, Rafe and Pierce from Street Love!
November 6, 2022
The Holiday Experiment is an enjoyable brother's best friend, age gap story that takes place in the small town of Mayberry Holm. I loved being back in this small town. It was great seeing everyone again. Carson is a workaholic and when Enzo, Carson's younger brother Cole's best friend comes home he is determined to find Carson a boyfriend for Christmas. Brother's best friend is one of my favorite tropes so I had high hopes for this book and I was not disappointed. Carson and Enzo had to fight for their happy ending as neither one wanted to give into their feelings they had for the other. They both had their own issues they needed to deal with before they could fully be happy together. I definitely recommend this book and the others from this world.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
October 28, 2022
Romance, Christmas and small town what more heartwarming could a story have. This has it all. Enzo has had a crush on his best friend’s brother since they were pretty young. After a disappointing career move, Enzo moves back home. There he gets caught up in the lives of his BFF and others including Carson, his BFF’s brother.
Carson has pretty much closed himself off after a bad breakup. His focus is work. Everyone around him gets on his case to take more time off and get involved in a relationship. He has no desire to do so until Enzo makes a bet with him.
The secondary characters all add so much. Enzo’s mom, Carson’s brother and niece, Carson’s previous crush bring the story together.
This is a warm-hearted story and perfect for the holiday season.
Carson has pretty much closed himself off after a bad breakup. His focus is work. Everyone around him gets on his case to take more time off and get involved in a relationship. He has no desire to do so until Enzo makes a bet with him.
The secondary characters all add so much. Enzo’s mom, Carson’s brother and niece, Carson’s previous crush bring the story together.
This is a warm-hearted story and perfect for the holiday season.
November 1, 2022
Absolutely fantastic!
This book is awesome! Rhys does it again with this newest tale of the residents of Mayberry Holm. It’s Carter and Enzo this time and it’s quite the journey. They’ve known each other for years as Enzo’s best friend is Carter’s younger brother. Enzo comes back home to start over again and he vows to help Carter find a boyfriend for Christmas. I love the way Enzo does everything he can to find Carter a date while trying not to give in to the feelings he’s had for Carter for years. Enzo’s mom is a hoot and adds a wonderful depth to the story. Add in crazy employees/friends and an adorable dog none of them can resist and you get a wonderful and sweet tale that is an absolute must read!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
This book is awesome! Rhys does it again with this newest tale of the residents of Mayberry Holm. It’s Carter and Enzo this time and it’s quite the journey. They’ve known each other for years as Enzo’s best friend is Carter’s younger brother. Enzo comes back home to start over again and he vows to help Carter find a boyfriend for Christmas. I love the way Enzo does everything he can to find Carter a date while trying not to give in to the feelings he’s had for Carter for years. Enzo’s mom is a hoot and adds a wonderful depth to the story. Add in crazy employees/friends and an adorable dog none of them can resist and you get a wonderful and sweet tale that is an absolute must read!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
November 8, 2022
Enzo and Carson ❤️
3.5 Stars ⭐️
This was an angst filled, fun read with two really likable men. Enzo drove me crazy at times I wanted to slap him, but he was a great character with tons of emotional baggage. It took some time for those walls to come down but when they did....it was on!! His inner dialogue cracked me up as much as it made me hurt for him. Carson, he was a love. His patience, sweetness and understanding with Enzo was perfect. I adored the dynamic between these two, it went from friendship with loads of longing to hot chemistry which lead to something really special and long over due ❤️ if your looking for a sweet story with some ups and downs plus a perfectly satisfying HEA, I'd recommend this one.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
3.5 Stars ⭐️
This was an angst filled, fun read with two really likable men. Enzo drove me crazy at times I wanted to slap him, but he was a great character with tons of emotional baggage. It took some time for those walls to come down but when they did....it was on!! His inner dialogue cracked me up as much as it made me hurt for him. Carson, he was a love. His patience, sweetness and understanding with Enzo was perfect. I adored the dynamic between these two, it went from friendship with loads of longing to hot chemistry which lead to something really special and long over due ❤️ if your looking for a sweet story with some ups and downs plus a perfectly satisfying HEA, I'd recommend this one.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
December 15, 2022
Best Friend's Brother, Yes Please!
Oh Carson and Enzo. What are we going to do with you? If only these two would talk and be honest about how they are feeling they would have saved themselves so much time. Unbeknownst to them both, they have been in love with each other for years. Everyone can see it but them. This book is filled with angst and snarky banter between characters, just the way I like it. Both MCs have a lot of self doubt due to their pasts. Bets are made, "mission find Carson a boyfriend" is underway and both Carson and Enzo start their holiday experiment. The side characters are just as lovable as the MCs. It's A great book with a holiday vibe, but not overly so.
Oh Carson and Enzo. What are we going to do with you? If only these two would talk and be honest about how they are feeling they would have saved themselves so much time. Unbeknownst to them both, they have been in love with each other for years. Everyone can see it but them. This book is filled with angst and snarky banter between characters, just the way I like it. Both MCs have a lot of self doubt due to their pasts. Bets are made, "mission find Carson a boyfriend" is underway and both Carson and Enzo start their holiday experiment. The side characters are just as lovable as the MCs. It's A great book with a holiday vibe, but not overly so.
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