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Williamsville Inn #1
Snowstorms and Second Chances
Erik Josef is a forty-three-year-old, recently divorced businessman with one goal: wrap up his last project of the year so he can spend the holidays in Tahiti. All he wants is drinks on a beach, served to him by a woman in a bikini.
While waiting at an airport bar for his business partner to fly into Buffalo, New York, he encounters Seth Cobb, a chatty travel writer waiting for a flight to Pittsburgh to visit his family.
After a huge snowstorm grounds all flights, a mix-up at the Williamsville Inn leads to Erik and Seth sharing a room. Seth’s love of Christmas gets on Erik’s last nerve, but a mugful of Seth’s hot chocolate slowly melts Erik’s icy exterior.
When Erik realizes he’s attracted to Seth, he must choose between the life he’s always known, or a new adventure with a man a decade younger and a second chance at happiness.
While waiting at an airport bar for his business partner to fly into Buffalo, New York, he encounters Seth Cobb, a chatty travel writer waiting for a flight to Pittsburgh to visit his family.
After a huge snowstorm grounds all flights, a mix-up at the Williamsville Inn leads to Erik and Seth sharing a room. Seth’s love of Christmas gets on Erik’s last nerve, but a mugful of Seth’s hot chocolate slowly melts Erik’s icy exterior.
When Erik realizes he’s attracted to Seth, he must choose between the life he’s always known, or a new adventure with a man a decade younger and a second chance at happiness.
184 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 16, 2019
About the author
Brigham Vaughn
62 books526 followersBrigham Vaughn is on the adventure of a lifetime as a full-time writer. She devours books at an alarming rate and hasn’t let her short arms and long torso stop her from doing yoga. She makes a killer key lime pie, hates green peppers, and loves wine tasting tours. A collector of vintage Nancy Drew books and green glassware, she enjoys poking around in antique shops and refinishing thrift store furniture. An avid photographer, she dreams of traveling the world and she can’t wait to discover everything else life has to offer her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
December 25, 2021
I’m so happy that I found this author right before Christmas. I totally appreciate the no-nonsense, down to Earth approach to romance with characters that are lifelike and relatable.
Erik is out on the road on Christmas Eve, trying to reach a hotel that he’s supposed to assess, as his company owns the property and needs to evaluate it.
However, a snow storm cancels all flights and a mishap at the hotel reception leads to him and a virtual stranger – travel writer Seth – sharing a room.
And the entire book is literally two strangers in a room with snow falling outside and roads being closed. It’s hilariously simple, but damn!
It’s a perfect example why character driven writing works so, so well. You don’t need much of a plot, you don’t need spectacular settings. Just a run-down hotel room with a faulty heating system and two guys trying to stay warm.
Seriously, this is what the romance genre is made for. It just doesn’t get better.
Erik is a 43 year old divorced father who gave up on sex long ago and accepted a love-less marriage until his daughter left for college. Now on his own, he is drifting. And spending Christmas alone in a hotel room during a snow storm is just what he believes life will be like for him from now on.
Chatty travel writer Seth got equally stuck in Erik’s hotel and lands in the man’s room due to a funny misunderstanding. But the hotel is full and no other rooms are available, so the men need to share.
Seth is openly gay and used to hooking up with men during his travels. He doesn’t hide his interest in the older man and puts the offer out there to share body warmth.
However, it takes actually cold temperatures to finally lure Erik into Seth’s bed.
The sequence of events and the guy’s reactions felt very natural and – I guarantee - happen just like this countless of times in the real world. Seeing Erik & Seth’s romance come to life does make it a heart-warming Christmas story, though, even though there’s not a single Christmas tree in sight.
Don’t miss out on this author, I already started another book by Brigham Vaughn, because I seriously enjoy this angle of romance.
5 stars and a favorite!!
Erik is out on the road on Christmas Eve, trying to reach a hotel that he’s supposed to assess, as his company owns the property and needs to evaluate it.
However, a snow storm cancels all flights and a mishap at the hotel reception leads to him and a virtual stranger – travel writer Seth – sharing a room.
And the entire book is literally two strangers in a room with snow falling outside and roads being closed. It’s hilariously simple, but damn!
It’s a perfect example why character driven writing works so, so well. You don’t need much of a plot, you don’t need spectacular settings. Just a run-down hotel room with a faulty heating system and two guys trying to stay warm.
Seriously, this is what the romance genre is made for. It just doesn’t get better.
Erik is a 43 year old divorced father who gave up on sex long ago and accepted a love-less marriage until his daughter left for college. Now on his own, he is drifting. And spending Christmas alone in a hotel room during a snow storm is just what he believes life will be like for him from now on.
Chatty travel writer Seth got equally stuck in Erik’s hotel and lands in the man’s room due to a funny misunderstanding. But the hotel is full and no other rooms are available, so the men need to share.
Seth is openly gay and used to hooking up with men during his travels. He doesn’t hide his interest in the older man and puts the offer out there to share body warmth.
However, it takes actually cold temperatures to finally lure Erik into Seth’s bed.
The sequence of events and the guy’s reactions felt very natural and – I guarantee - happen just like this countless of times in the real world. Seeing Erik & Seth’s romance come to life does make it a heart-warming Christmas story, though, even though there’s not a single Christmas tree in sight.
Don’t miss out on this author, I already started another book by Brigham Vaughn, because I seriously enjoy this angle of romance.
5 stars and a favorite!!
December 13, 2020
I loved Cabin Fever by Brigham Vaughn, and when I saw there’s another Christmas story out by this author, I couldn’t resist to check it out.
Verdict:
a. I like Brigham Vaughn. She writes people I can understand, people I like and feel for.
b. This book is a wee bit shorter than Cabin Fever, but we get two very engaging MCs again:
Erik is a forty-something recent divorcee who drowns himself in work. He’s ticked relationships and human intimacy long off under ‘done’. However, meeting Seth stirs something inside him he’s pushed under the carpet from an early age.
His journey of self-discovery and his blatant honesty with himself is really touching and deliberating. I love how he whole-heartedly embraces his 'new' feelings, allows to see himself in a new light and grabs the chance at another life with both hands.
Seth is so open and friendly and easy-going (and despite Erik's bad behaviour at the beginning), he simply breaks through the walls Erik has put up around him like a ray of sunshine. He is a genuinely nice guy and we do understand what he's feeling most of the time, but I would have loved to get his POV, too.
c. Erik’s firsts are really well written, for me with a lot of compassion and realism. And the heat between the two men certainly combatted the broken heating in their room.
Only thing: It would have been nice to find out why Erik’s father bought that hotel. But maybe that’s revealed in another story?
One thing’s for sure – I will definitely check out further books by this author.
Verdict:
a. I like Brigham Vaughn. She writes people I can understand, people I like and feel for.
b. This book is a wee bit shorter than Cabin Fever, but we get two very engaging MCs again:
Erik is a forty-something recent divorcee who drowns himself in work. He’s ticked relationships and human intimacy long off under ‘done’. However, meeting Seth stirs something inside him he’s pushed under the carpet from an early age.
His journey of self-discovery and his blatant honesty with himself is really touching and deliberating. I love how he whole-heartedly embraces his 'new' feelings, allows to see himself in a new light and grabs the chance at another life with both hands.
Seth is so open and friendly and easy-going (and despite Erik's bad behaviour at the beginning), he simply breaks through the walls Erik has put up around him like a ray of sunshine. He is a genuinely nice guy and we do understand what he's feeling most of the time, but I would have loved to get his POV, too.
c. Erik’s firsts are really well written, for me with a lot of compassion and realism. And the heat between the two men certainly combatted the broken heating in their room.
Only thing: It would have been nice to find out why Erik’s father bought that hotel. But maybe that’s revealed in another story?
One thing’s for sure – I will definitely check out further books by this author.
December 17, 2020
***3.5***
This is a pretty low-angst story about Erik who at forty-three (43) is coming off an epically sad & lonely marriage. He's a bit of a grump, kind of in a perpetual bad mood due to his loneliness. He hates Christmas and all it's cheer so logically on a work trip he gets stuck by a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. Due to a series of events he ends up sharing his hotel room with Seth, a chatty, cheery, Christmas loving travel writer ten years his junior. One thing leads to another, Erik un-grumps and comes to realize (remember) that he's not so straight.
Overall I liked the story, I liked the writing, and that the drama llamas stayed home. The first half is a getting-to-know-you period and then the awareness, exploration, enjoyment, and acceptance. These are two nice people. There's sex positivity. No bashing of Erik's ex wife as a villainess. As I said, nice.
The thing is that I'm not sure I'll remember them. Seth loves, loves, loves Lifetime/Hallmark Christmas movies (who doesn't) and this story comes to resemble one of them albeit with less cheese. What I mean is that you'll have a good time, be assured there will be a HEA, and nothing terrible will happen. Not a bad thing but they're not memorable. Other things are more personal taste related, me letting my Grinch flag fly and absolutely ignorable. READ NO FURTHER.
Recommended for a well written, non sugary sweet, low angst Holiday set romance
This is a pretty low-angst story about Erik who at forty-three (43) is coming off an epically sad & lonely marriage. He's a bit of a grump, kind of in a perpetual bad mood due to his loneliness. He hates Christmas and all it's cheer so logically on a work trip he gets stuck by a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. Due to a series of events he ends up sharing his hotel room with Seth, a chatty, cheery, Christmas loving travel writer ten years his junior. One thing leads to another, Erik un-grumps and comes to realize (remember) that he's not so straight.
Overall I liked the story, I liked the writing, and that the drama llamas stayed home. The first half is a getting-to-know-you period and then the awareness, exploration, enjoyment, and acceptance. These are two nice people. There's sex positivity. No bashing of Erik's ex wife as a villainess. As I said, nice.
The thing is that I'm not sure I'll remember them. Seth loves, loves, loves Lifetime/Hallmark Christmas movies (who doesn't) and this story comes to resemble one of them albeit with less cheese. What I mean is that you'll have a good time, be assured there will be a HEA, and nothing terrible will happen. Not a bad thing but they're not memorable. Other things are more personal taste related, me letting my Grinch flag fly and absolutely ignorable. READ NO FURTHER.
Recommended for a well written, non sugary sweet, low angst Holiday set romance
December 31, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Snowstorms and Second Chances has a lot that would appeal to many readers. Erik and Seth are opposites and there is an age difference and they are stranded and have to share a room and then a bed and it’s set around the holidays.
Erik is not in a good mood as the book opens, and he was the kind of cranky that was more difficult for me to like. He wants to be on his vacation, yet he is stuck in snowstorm on a project he didn’t want to be on. Erik’s recently deceased father owned the hotel Erik is going to look at. No one knew he had owned the hotel for all these years as it was buried under a lot of paperwork and Erik has to decide what to do with it. We never do learn any more details about the hotel, why it was secretly owned, or exactly where it stood by the end of the book.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Snowstorms and Second Chances has a lot that would appeal to many readers. Erik and Seth are opposites and there is an age difference and they are stranded and have to share a room and then a bed and it’s set around the holidays.
Erik is not in a good mood as the book opens, and he was the kind of cranky that was more difficult for me to like. He wants to be on his vacation, yet he is stuck in snowstorm on a project he didn’t want to be on. Erik’s recently deceased father owned the hotel Erik is going to look at. No one knew he had owned the hotel for all these years as it was buried under a lot of paperwork and Erik has to decide what to do with it. We never do learn any more details about the hotel, why it was secretly owned, or exactly where it stood by the end of the book.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
December 3, 2022
I bought this because I live in Williamsville. I assumed the author would be from here too, but no. The book has a careless error about the locale early on. First it describes Williamsville as being 30 miles from Buffalo when it’s only about 12-13 miles, then when he tries to get a taxi from the Buffalo airport the driver balks saying, “...that’s a hell of a distance in this weather and I won’t be able to pick up anyone there so it’s out of my way.” The Buffalo-Niagara Airport is practically in Williamsville. It’s literally 4 miles away and it’s certainly not in the middle of nowhere so another fare is entirely possible, or at least a quick return to the airport.
But the reason I gave up on this was dull dialogue and flat characterizations. I’m not feeling these guys separately or any chemistry together. It’s mostly a buildup to the sex, which to its credit hasn't happened yet. But there's a lot of nudge-nudge, wink-wink. DNF @55%.
But the reason I gave up on this was dull dialogue and flat characterizations. I’m not feeling these guys separately or any chemistry together. It’s mostly a buildup to the sex, which to its credit hasn't happened yet. But there's a lot of nudge-nudge, wink-wink. DNF @55%.
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January 3, 20223.5 stars
This started a bit slow for me, but I'm glad I stuck with it as it turned out to be an enjoyable, sweet story. I'm always willing to pick up a story that has forced proximity in a snowstorm. I enjoyed Erik and Seth together and how Erik was willing to explore his new feelings without shame or freaking out.
I am bummed that the story of why Erik's father bought the hotel was never completed (maybe further in the series?). I had my own theory so I'll just go with that .
This started a bit slow for me, but I'm glad I stuck with it as it turned out to be an enjoyable, sweet story. I'm always willing to pick up a story that has forced proximity in a snowstorm. I enjoyed Erik and Seth together and how Erik was willing to explore his new feelings without shame or freaking out.
I am bummed that the story of why Erik's father bought the hotel was never completed (maybe further in the series?). I had my own theory so I'll just go with that .
December 30, 2020
This was my third book by Brigham Vaughn. I’ve really enjoyed all three. I always love a good story about a curmudgeon like Erik who meets and falls for a sweetie like Seth. The sex is pretty hot too.
April 3, 2021
Another great one by Brigham Vaughn! I love the chemistry! Erik was definitely a grump to Seth at the start but circumstances brought them together. Seth brought Erik to life. Bisexual awakening, age gap, forced proximity, yes! Loved it!
June 10, 2020
DNF @ 14%.
I just found the writing and the plot too awkward.
I just found the writing and the plot too awkward.
December 31, 2020
I liked this fun tale that puts our guys together ! They met at an airport, where businessman Erik, 43, a red haired Viking type, was being a grump and writer Seth, 33, with dark hair and eyes, a "bear," is friendly and happy.
This is a surprise story in a way I hadn't expected, and it is well done. It's deeper and more profound, with some sassy conversations and reveals. After the airport, they meet again under humorous circumstance at the Williamsville Inn.
The snow storm has wreaked havoc and they are stuck, so they make the most of it. Straight Erik and gay Seth really get along like puzzle pieces, and their red hot sex is great, while it is m/m firsts for Erik.... but he is all for it.
When their days are ending, what will happen? Will they go home alone after this amazing Christmas together?
A wonderful story and grand epilogue.
ENJOY !
======
This is a surprise story in a way I hadn't expected, and it is well done. It's deeper and more profound, with some sassy conversations and reveals. After the airport, they meet again under humorous circumstance at the Williamsville Inn.
The snow storm has wreaked havoc and they are stuck, so they make the most of it. Straight Erik and gay Seth really get along like puzzle pieces, and their red hot sex is great, while it is m/m firsts for Erik.... but he is all for it.
When their days are ending, what will happen? Will they go home alone after this amazing Christmas together?
A wonderful story and grand epilogue.
ENJOY !
======
January 4, 2022
This one didn't get to me. It's nice, it's just slow. It lost me at times, I couldn't focus. The story is nice, my main issue is the pacing
October 19, 2023
SNOWSTORMS AND SECOND CHANCES was a cute bisexual awakening romance with an age gap, only one hotel room, and Christmassy snow-filled setting. I wasn't sure about Erik at first because he's a massive grump in the first few chapters but he was also having a terrible day and he let it get to him. Seth is a great counterpoint and he helps Erik find joy in life again and finally move on from Erik's divorce and past relationship. The pacing is a little slow but it's also not a long book so I still read it quickly.
Content Warning: recent-ish death of a homophobic and emotionally abusive parent
Content Warning: recent-ish death of a homophobic and emotionally abusive parent
November 16, 2023
Such a cute quick read. Grumpy/Sunshine vibes to complement an age gap/only one bed story just like I love them. I loved Erik's bi awakening. It didn't feel too rushed and I also appreciated that the MCs fell in friendship first, then in lust, and finally in love. Well done.
December 15, 2019
4.5 Stars
Brigham Vaughn's Snowstorms and Second Chances is a sweet holiday romance.
A Buffalo snowstorm and a hotel mix up results in two strangers sharing a room. Erik and Seth start off with a lot of dislike for one another, causing a lot of tension between them.
Erik is a sympathetic character, as he was in a marriage with no real connection. Hell, they didn't even care enough about their relationship to fight. They just co-existed. It's always wonderful when someone who experienced a lonely marriage finds real love.
My favorite quote is "It doesn't matter how many people are around; if you don't feel a connection them, it's lonely." Truer words have never been spoken!
My favorite thing about this story may be the ease in which their friendship develops. To go from strangers who dislike one another, to friends, to friends with benefits, and then to lovers is not always carried off this well.
And the beauty of this tale is the natural way in which Seth brings out a sense of ease in Erik. With Seth, Erik's able to let go of his stress and discover who he wants to be at this point in his life.
The writing is great, flows well and I actually enjoy the third person pov. I usually find that to be awkward, but the author does a fabulous job with it. The author also excels in the illustration of bisexual awakenning.
Snowstorms and Second Chances is a heartwarming tale of a man who's discovering and exploring his sexuality later in life. This Brigham Vaughn book is a great christmas read when you're in the mood for something sweet.
Brigham Vaughn's Snowstorms and Second Chances is a sweet holiday romance.
A Buffalo snowstorm and a hotel mix up results in two strangers sharing a room. Erik and Seth start off with a lot of dislike for one another, causing a lot of tension between them.
Erik is a sympathetic character, as he was in a marriage with no real connection. Hell, they didn't even care enough about their relationship to fight. They just co-existed. It's always wonderful when someone who experienced a lonely marriage finds real love.
My favorite quote is "It doesn't matter how many people are around; if you don't feel a connection them, it's lonely." Truer words have never been spoken!
My favorite thing about this story may be the ease in which their friendship develops. To go from strangers who dislike one another, to friends, to friends with benefits, and then to lovers is not always carried off this well.
And the beauty of this tale is the natural way in which Seth brings out a sense of ease in Erik. With Seth, Erik's able to let go of his stress and discover who he wants to be at this point in his life.
The writing is great, flows well and I actually enjoy the third person pov. I usually find that to be awkward, but the author does a fabulous job with it. The author also excels in the illustration of bisexual awakenning.
Snowstorms and Second Chances is a heartwarming tale of a man who's discovering and exploring his sexuality later in life. This Brigham Vaughn book is a great christmas read when you're in the mood for something sweet.
January 3, 2020
Hallmark worthy
This story did it for me. I actually teared up and even muttered to thebnain characters, "Don't be idiots. You need each other." When you get so involved then you know it's good.
This story did it for me. I actually teared up and even muttered to thebnain characters, "Don't be idiots. You need each other." When you get so involved then you know it's good.
November 10, 2020
Super cute holiday fling that turns into more. I loved that this one was pretty much angst free and really focused on the building relationship. That's exactly what I want in my Christmas romance.
April 16, 2021
3.5 stars
January 1, 2020
There were a couple of things that stopped me from giving this holiday story 5 Stars and both are because of personal preferences. The story is a really good one, it hooked me right away. I loved the MCs... Erik & Seth even with Erik being in need of an attitude adjustment at the beginning. He comes around so it's all good.
Now for those things that gave me pause. The first was how quickly Erik went from straight to bi without any real hint of hesitation, personally I think someone of his age would have had a bit more trouble with it. I wouldn't have wanted him to freak out because that's just silly, but I would have loved for him to proceed with just a bit more caution. Also, this isn't a short story so I would have loved if it was more of a slow burn not the wham bam thank you ma'am he's the one. It always makes me leery of relationships where the MCs spend more time in bed than out especially when their time together is a span of just a few days. Either way this was an enjoyable read.
TAGS
-- Holiday/Christmas -- enemies to friends to lovers -- second chance at love -- one extremely grouchy MC (at first)... Erik and one very, very sweet MC... Seth -- age difference -- straight to bi -- first time -- not a slow burn -- sigh worthy
December 14, 2019
Snowstorms and Second Chances is a Williamsville Inn Christmas story by Brigham Vaughn. I really liked the story and the characters.
December 26, 2019
4.5 for a hot holiday
I like the author’s work anyway and this was a perfect holiday romance offering for my tastes. 10 yr age gap, a touch of enemy to lover because Erik is a jerk at first and 43 yr old, gay-sex virgin, bisexual awakening. Phew! It was a fair amount of sex scenes but suited to the storyline with lots of personal dialogue to make it believable. No gay panic, no insta-love, just an attraction they don’t want to write off too quickly. Nice epilogue.
I like the author’s work anyway and this was a perfect holiday romance offering for my tastes. 10 yr age gap, a touch of enemy to lover because Erik is a jerk at first and 43 yr old, gay-sex virgin, bisexual awakening. Phew! It was a fair amount of sex scenes but suited to the storyline with lots of personal dialogue to make it believable. No gay panic, no insta-love, just an attraction they don’t want to write off too quickly. Nice epilogue.
December 25, 2019
“How remarkable we are in our ability to hide things from ourselves - our conscious minds only a small portion of our actual minds, jellyfish floating on a vast dark sea of knowing and deciding.” ~ Andrew Sean Greer, The Story of a Marriage
It may be the season of good cheer, but the only spirit of Christmas Erik Josef feels has to do with the “spirit” he is drinking. Erik could challenge the Grinch any time for the bad mood he is currently in. With his disastrous marriage ending in divorce the previous week and his only daughter gone to her fiancé’s home, he has ended up alone at what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. All Erik wants to do is finish up the final business deal of the year, then he is off to Tahiti.
While Erik is trying to ignore all the glad tidings around him, he is disturbed by a chatty, sickeningly happy young man, Seth Cobb, who sits beside him and insists on conversing. All Erik wants to do is sulk. Erik tries to give him the cold shoulder, but Seth simply does not take the hint. When all flights are cancelled, Erik realizes that his business partner, whom he was to meet at the airport, is not going to make it. Erik realizes that he is going to have to complete the business there alone. He secures an ride to the Williamsville Inn. As he is getting into the car, Seth, whose flight was cancelled as well, asks to share the ride with him, but Erik flatly refuses.
Erik arrives at his destination, approaches the front desk to check in, but it seems that there is no reservation for him. He procures another room, then realizes he is starving and goes out to eat. When he returns, he is startled by Seth coming out of his bathroom. Due to a mix-up, they have ended up in the same room. The hotel is booked solid so they decide to make the best of it. Erik wonders how he is going to stand Seth’s enthusiasm, but also, he begins to notice things about Seth like how soft his chest hair looks and how he’d like to touch it. Instead of desire, Erik tries to dismiss the unwanted, unexpected feelings to his being cold and tired, but he can’t quite get them out of his mind. Erik has never been attracted to a man before, but is curious. When he finds out that Seth is gay and more than willing to help him explore his new found desires. When Seth offers to show him the joys of gay sex, Erik takes him up on it.
This is the second book in the Williamsville Inn series, the first being ‘Snowflakes and Song Lyrics’ by Hank Edwards. I enjoyed revisiting and seeing some of the familiar characters. Erik and Seth were both interesting, eccentric in their own ways. There was more sex in this story, but there was romance as well. The first book is more romantic than sexual, which I tend to lean toward, but I am sure that there are plenty of readers who will like this book just as much, if not more, as the other one. Thanks, Brigham, for finding a way to bring Erik and Seth together.
December 17, 2019
This is a lovely Christmas romance, but when you meet Erik, it took a bit of time for me warm up to the man. You learn about his divorce and a bit about his daughter, but the loneliness coming from the man is visceral. It doesn't excuse his treatment of Sean, who is a sweetheart, but it was almost unforgivable how Erik treated Sean during the taxi incident.
The coincidences in this book bothered me at the beginning, but after both men arrived at the inn and Erik and Sean started getting to know one another, I began to enjoy the story. By the end, the book became a sweet holiday read, especially when Erik admitted his attraction to Sean without much fanfare. A feel-good holiday romance!
The coincidences in this book bothered me at the beginning, but after both men arrived at the inn and Erik and Sean started getting to know one another, I began to enjoy the story. By the end, the book became a sweet holiday read, especially when Erik admitted his attraction to Sean without much fanfare. A feel-good holiday romance!
January 6, 2020
This one kinda worked for me... I felt like it missed the "great" mark (not sure why, though) but it did hit the "good" mark... Seth was worthy of 4-stars and Erik slowly grows on you! I guess we did get a lot of "bed" scenes, but we are talking stranded in an inn during a huge snowstorm with 2 strangers sharing a room... so the bed seemed to be the centerpiece of the story! ;D
December 19, 2019
Erik Josef grimaced, in the true spirit of the Grinch, when he heard yet another Christmas song as he drank his Scotch. His marriage had officially ended a week before, and he didn’t even miss his ex-wife. He was hoping to go somewhere warm like Tahiti, but his business partner, Bertram Forsythe, had stumbled upon an old hotel in the property management company’s holdings, acquired by Erik’s father decades ago. Bertram wanted it off their books, so Erik was in an airport bar in Buffalo to meet Bertram and drive to Williamsville together to assess the property and decide if it should be renovated or sold “as is”. Bertram was delayed by the weather, so Erik was staying in the bar for however long it took him to get here. The bar was packed and a stranger asked if he could take the last seat, which was next to Erik. Seth Cobb radiated happiness and the Christmas Spirit and it got on Erik’s nerves quickly. Every time Seth moved, he bumped Erik in the tight quarters.
As Seth told Erik he was headed to Pittsburgh but it looked doubtful now, Erik told him about his plans to meet his partner. Odd questions followed about how he first met his partner and their age difference, which he claimed really didn’t matter as long as they got along. Erik was confused – what difference did it make anyway how old his colleagues were? Bertram called him to tell him all flights were cancelled and asked Erik to drive to the Inn himself for the assessment. But their office temp had neglected to set up a car for them – and the Inn had no reservation for them under their “fake” names they usually used to avoid favorable treatment at a property they owned. With so many drinks swirling in his head, he reserved the room under the name Erik “Cobb”, not remembering where he had heard that name recently. Waiting an hour to get someone willing to drive to the Inn – at twice the cab fare – Erik flatly refused to allow Seth to share the cab when he came outside in the snow and asked. He felt guilty, but he needed silence right now, and paid the cab driver an extra $50 to not say a word.
Through a misunderstanding by the front desk -- no doubt caused by the name Erik unthinkingly gave them for his reservation -- Erik and Seth are booked into the same room and that was the last one the Inn had. Grumpy at first, as Erik and Seth get to know each other better, the tension from their abrasive relationship begins to change into something else. Could Erik admit to his attraction to Sean? Could he give up his loneliness and allow someone in who genuinely cared for him?
This was a sweet story, predictable but “feel-good” and humorous. There is also some history on the Inn’s purchase by Erik’s father, so grab your copy and put it all together.
As Seth told Erik he was headed to Pittsburgh but it looked doubtful now, Erik told him about his plans to meet his partner. Odd questions followed about how he first met his partner and their age difference, which he claimed really didn’t matter as long as they got along. Erik was confused – what difference did it make anyway how old his colleagues were? Bertram called him to tell him all flights were cancelled and asked Erik to drive to the Inn himself for the assessment. But their office temp had neglected to set up a car for them – and the Inn had no reservation for them under their “fake” names they usually used to avoid favorable treatment at a property they owned. With so many drinks swirling in his head, he reserved the room under the name Erik “Cobb”, not remembering where he had heard that name recently. Waiting an hour to get someone willing to drive to the Inn – at twice the cab fare – Erik flatly refused to allow Seth to share the cab when he came outside in the snow and asked. He felt guilty, but he needed silence right now, and paid the cab driver an extra $50 to not say a word.
Through a misunderstanding by the front desk -- no doubt caused by the name Erik unthinkingly gave them for his reservation -- Erik and Seth are booked into the same room and that was the last one the Inn had. Grumpy at first, as Erik and Seth get to know each other better, the tension from their abrasive relationship begins to change into something else. Could Erik admit to his attraction to Sean? Could he give up his loneliness and allow someone in who genuinely cared for him?
This was a sweet story, predictable but “feel-good” and humorous. There is also some history on the Inn’s purchase by Erik’s father, so grab your copy and put it all together.
December 24, 2019
Seth is adorable and Erik . . . well I warred between strangling him and smothering him a big Mama Bear hug. All kinds of holiday feels to get you in the spirit of the season.
Okay so that's a short review but honestly, it says everything that made me love Brigham Vaughn's Snowstorms and Second Chances. When I first met Erik, I kept thinking how am I suppose to cheer for this guy? Then fate intervenes and he actually got snippier and I wanted to smack him one but when fate raises elements to a new level and Erik finally takes a minute to breathe, you begin to see a softer side, a nicer side, and you realizes he is actually human underneath that holiday bah-humbugging gruff. I don't know that I could give him the chances that Seth does but I'm glad he did.
As a lifelong, born and raised Wisconsinite, I can tell you that snowstorms are unpredictable, they pop up with very little to no warning sometimes. Heck I remember more than once when the TV weather morons hype up wicked snow for a week and then the day of infamy arrives they claim weather patterns shift and went more North or stayed South only to find yourself buried in 20+" 24 hours later. Brigham Vaughn creates the setting as someone who knows snow. The weather may mostly be just a setup for getting the main characters in the same close proximity but when it can alter plans so drastically as it does in Snowstorms, Mother Nature becomes a character in itself. One of the things I loved(and yes I laughed and maybe even pointed and said "You had it coming, Erik") about Seth was his preparedness versus Erik's complete lack of readiness and nothing showed that more than in his choice(or lack thereof) of footwear. Again, a great element spoken most likely from experience.
Whether you believe in fate, the magic of the season, or right place right time the end result is the same: the snowstorm is the best thing to happen to Erik and Seth but will they let what they discover continue once Mother Nature lets up? I think you know what's coming: You'll have to read for yourself to find out. Trust me, you will love every minute spent at the Williamsville Inn.
Okay so that's a short review but honestly, it says everything that made me love Brigham Vaughn's Snowstorms and Second Chances. When I first met Erik, I kept thinking how am I suppose to cheer for this guy? Then fate intervenes and he actually got snippier and I wanted to smack him one but when fate raises elements to a new level and Erik finally takes a minute to breathe, you begin to see a softer side, a nicer side, and you realizes he is actually human underneath that holiday bah-humbugging gruff. I don't know that I could give him the chances that Seth does but I'm glad he did.
As a lifelong, born and raised Wisconsinite, I can tell you that snowstorms are unpredictable, they pop up with very little to no warning sometimes. Heck I remember more than once when the TV weather morons hype up wicked snow for a week and then the day of infamy arrives they claim weather patterns shift and went more North or stayed South only to find yourself buried in 20+" 24 hours later. Brigham Vaughn creates the setting as someone who knows snow. The weather may mostly be just a setup for getting the main characters in the same close proximity but when it can alter plans so drastically as it does in Snowstorms, Mother Nature becomes a character in itself. One of the things I loved(and yes I laughed and maybe even pointed and said "You had it coming, Erik") about Seth was his preparedness versus Erik's complete lack of readiness and nothing showed that more than in his choice(or lack thereof) of footwear. Again, a great element spoken most likely from experience.
Whether you believe in fate, the magic of the season, or right place right time the end result is the same: the snowstorm is the best thing to happen to Erik and Seth but will they let what they discover continue once Mother Nature lets up? I think you know what's coming: You'll have to read for yourself to find out. Trust me, you will love every minute spent at the Williamsville Inn.
December 26, 2019
Erik is the Grinch or at least he is now his twenty year marriage is over his daughter is living her own life away at college and he hates the holidays now his stuck in and airport in buffalo in the middle of a blizzard all he wants is to be in Tahiti not investing his late father's investment in a run down Inn. And now he's being annoyed by and all to happy travel writer who loves the Holidays Seth Erik cant get away fast enough. But when theres a mix up at the Inn and they have to share a room they get to know each other better.
Seth knows who he is he loves his job and cant weight to see his family for the holidays when he meets a handsome stranger in a bar at the airport. And by mix up or fate they end up sharing a room Seth helps Erik realize some things about himself and when it's time to part Erik will have to decide if he wants more with Seth or to go back to his life the way it was. I thought this was a really cute holiday store it was funny at times and the romance was sweet and steamy at others. The only reason I couldn't give this book a solid 5 was because I liked the couple so much I wanted more of and ending the epilogue wasn't enough but that's just my personal preference.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review
Seth knows who he is he loves his job and cant weight to see his family for the holidays when he meets a handsome stranger in a bar at the airport. And by mix up or fate they end up sharing a room Seth helps Erik realize some things about himself and when it's time to part Erik will have to decide if he wants more with Seth or to go back to his life the way it was. I thought this was a really cute holiday store it was funny at times and the romance was sweet and steamy at others. The only reason I couldn't give this book a solid 5 was because I liked the couple so much I wanted more of and ending the epilogue wasn't enough but that's just my personal preference.
I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book via Booksprout and this is my honest review
December 25, 2019
Who has ever been stuck at Buffalo airport and found a new lease on life? Erik was settled in a life when he ended up divorced, his daughter in college and scheduled to be newly engaged and he was alone hating the holiday month of December. On Chistmas Eve, he was in an airport bar in Buffalo waiting for his business partner, Bertram so they could assess a property, Erik's father, Josef had purchased in Williamsville. Because of weather delays, the airport waiting areas are packed. Seth, took the seat next to Eric and started chatting. Erik was unaware Seth was gay, so the conversation took a fun pretzel maneuver. The 'partner' confustion started a fun misunderstanding. Seth, as a travel writer found joy in every place he visited, all people he met and situations flown his way. So, being stuck sharing a hotel room with a stranger would be a challenge for Erik and a piece of cake for Seth, right? What happens when Erik finds out Seth is gay? Why does Seth flirt with Erik? Will they ever get out of Buffalo? Will they each complete their work assignments? Will they ever find out why Josef bought the property? Good story! I received an ARC from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2019
Poor Erik is having a rough time.
Newly divorced, alone and working for the Christmas holidays he is no mood for inane chatter from stranger Seth.
One rude encounter and ridiculous mixup at the hotel they're staying at leads to their having to share a room.
Erik is pretty much a sad sack and a grouch.
Poor Seth is sweet and funny and just wants to help ease his burdens.
As their forced proximity increases, Erik is overwhelmed by his sudden attraction to Seth who's constantly flirting with him.
He decides to give in to his curiosity and they have an explosive encounter.
They end up snowed in and continue Erik's sudden plunge into his exploration as a newly discovered bisexual man.
They also get to know each other very well and when it's time for them to head back to their own lives, neither is too happy about it because they've both realized they want more.
Erik once again takes a brave step and pursues Seth, not willing to let him go.
The epilogue was a sweet glimpse into their future together.
Newly divorced, alone and working for the Christmas holidays he is no mood for inane chatter from stranger Seth.
One rude encounter and ridiculous mixup at the hotel they're staying at leads to their having to share a room.
Erik is pretty much a sad sack and a grouch.
Poor Seth is sweet and funny and just wants to help ease his burdens.
As their forced proximity increases, Erik is overwhelmed by his sudden attraction to Seth who's constantly flirting with him.
He decides to give in to his curiosity and they have an explosive encounter.
They end up snowed in and continue Erik's sudden plunge into his exploration as a newly discovered bisexual man.
They also get to know each other very well and when it's time for them to head back to their own lives, neither is too happy about it because they've both realized they want more.
Erik once again takes a brave step and pursues Seth, not willing to let him go.
The epilogue was a sweet glimpse into their future together.
December 21, 2019
I would rate this 3.5 stars.
On Christmas Eve, Erik is stuck in an airport bar on a business trip to Buffalo when he meets a travel writer named Seth. This is a week after Erik's twenty year marriage has ended. After a mix-up in their accommodation they end up being roommates. Erik's company owns the inn. I was a little worried at first since Erik is not the nicest guy and stress seems to make him worse. Their odd conversations turns strangely sexual. The awkward flirting continues as Erik wrestles with being attracted to Seth, but it sounds like Seth has been the only person he's been attracted to for over a decade so he just...goes with it. Seth is a little too good to be true. The intimacy and trust, since they are both open and honest people, makes the sex more than just physical. What's great about this is they actually communicate about their hopes and fears. This happen fast yet had moments that were sweet and hot. However, I felt a little removed from it like it engaged my head rather than my heart.
On Christmas Eve, Erik is stuck in an airport bar on a business trip to Buffalo when he meets a travel writer named Seth. This is a week after Erik's twenty year marriage has ended. After a mix-up in their accommodation they end up being roommates. Erik's company owns the inn. I was a little worried at first since Erik is not the nicest guy and stress seems to make him worse. Their odd conversations turns strangely sexual. The awkward flirting continues as Erik wrestles with being attracted to Seth, but it sounds like Seth has been the only person he's been attracted to for over a decade so he just...goes with it. Seth is a little too good to be true. The intimacy and trust, since they are both open and honest people, makes the sex more than just physical. What's great about this is they actually communicate about their hopes and fears. This happen fast yet had moments that were sweet and hot. However, I felt a little removed from it like it engaged my head rather than my heart.
July 27, 2020
This is entertaining and sweet. When Erik gets snowed in at the inn he is checking on, and his business partner can't join him, he's not happy. Seth is on his way to his parent's house when his flight is cancelled, so he goes to the airport bar to wait for another flight. Sitting next to Erik, Seth starts talking, which Erik funds irritating. Erik abruptly leaves to go to the inn, but he can't get ride from anywhere, untill he finally does. As Erik is getting in the taxi, Seth shows up and he asks to share the ride, and Erik slams the door in his face. After checking into the inn, Erik goes to get lunch, when he comes back, it's to find Seth coming out of the shower. They're told that there was a mix up and that their room was the last available room, so they agree to share. Erik finds himself irrisistably attracted to Seth, and doesn't understand why. But Seth is ready to help Erik figure things out. Things get steamy and serious between them very quickly. Both of the characters are likable and entertaining and the storyline is interesting.
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