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Deck the Hulls
This Christmas, he’s hiding more than his identity…
Fresh from a life tangled with the Greek mob in LA, Adam Sgouros is starting over in witness protection—but he feels unmoored in his new small-town existence. When a sudden need to dispose of a body without drawing attention arises (Not his fault! He can explain!), Adam realizes his first Christmas in the sleepy, wintery little town of Silver Shoals is shaping up to be anything but merry.
Elijah Jensen has always been an optimist, but this year, even he’s struggling to keep his head above water. A head-cold from hell and a boat that’s falling apart at the seams seem determined to sink his holiday spirit, and all he wants is to get through the season without any more complications. Complications like a musclebound ex-gangster hijacking his boat (Accidentally! He can explain!)—and taking him along for the ride.
Stranded on the water by a snowstorm, this unlikely pair must navigate through a holiday filled with danger, unexpected warmth, and enough secrets to sink them both. Can Adam's tough exterior thaw under the force of Eli's unyielding optimism, or will the storm—and Adam’s past—prove too much to weather?
Set course for a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity MM novella with a comedic noir twist. Featuring a relationship between a cisgender male and transgender male main character, Deck the Hulls promises a small-town holiday romance full of festive mayhem, surprising sparks, and a love that just might break through even the iciest of hearts.
Brief mentions of unsupportive family and past relationships, references to addiction and enabling, light gore.
Fresh from a life tangled with the Greek mob in LA, Adam Sgouros is starting over in witness protection—but he feels unmoored in his new small-town existence. When a sudden need to dispose of a body without drawing attention arises (Not his fault! He can explain!), Adam realizes his first Christmas in the sleepy, wintery little town of Silver Shoals is shaping up to be anything but merry.
Elijah Jensen has always been an optimist, but this year, even he’s struggling to keep his head above water. A head-cold from hell and a boat that’s falling apart at the seams seem determined to sink his holiday spirit, and all he wants is to get through the season without any more complications. Complications like a musclebound ex-gangster hijacking his boat (Accidentally! He can explain!)—and taking him along for the ride.
Stranded on the water by a snowstorm, this unlikely pair must navigate through a holiday filled with danger, unexpected warmth, and enough secrets to sink them both. Can Adam's tough exterior thaw under the force of Eli's unyielding optimism, or will the storm—and Adam’s past—prove too much to weather?
Set course for a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity MM novella with a comedic noir twist. Featuring a relationship between a cisgender male and transgender male main character, Deck the Hulls promises a small-town holiday romance full of festive mayhem, surprising sparks, and a love that just might break through even the iciest of hearts.
Brief mentions of unsupportive family and past relationships, references to addiction and enabling, light gore.
103 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2024
26 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Kat Cassidy
8 books35 followersKat Cassidy is a romance novelist. She’s a dreamer, a schemer and, above all else, a believer in true love. She lives in Canada with her husband, her kids, and her lovable mutt, and she likes loud guitars and strong IPAs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
November 8, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Cute short novella about a ex mobster in witness protection that messes up a teeny tiny bit when he thinks he has to dispose of a body and hijack a ship. Sadly, the ship (The Trans Atlantic, love the name forever) has its captain on board with a cold. Various shenanigans ensue (a storm, a couple of secrets revealed) all the while these two have to cooperate to survive. Of course, they fall in love and live happily ever after.
As always, Extra Love for a trans MC who is bossy and caring.
Cute short novella about a ex mobster in witness protection that messes up a teeny tiny bit when he thinks he has to dispose of a body and hijack a ship. Sadly, the ship (The Trans Atlantic, love the name forever) has its captain on board with a cold. Various shenanigans ensue (a storm, a couple of secrets revealed) all the while these two have to cooperate to survive. Of course, they fall in love and live happily ever after.
As always, Extra Love for a trans MC who is bossy and caring.
November 16, 2024
So I’m not sure what to say about this book. It started out quite good and intrigued me a lot. However, it quickly went into unbelievable territory and unfortunately never left it. I know it’s fiction and we need to let some things go but it was just a bit too much.
Overall Adam (Alex) and Eli kept me interested but there are so many things I wish we had been able to see. A discussion about Eli being trans and his insecurities instead of just side comments that may or may not have been mentioning it (although I did like that Eli being a trans man was not the main plot line). Any kind of intimacy would have been great too.
The plot though unbelievable was fun so if you are looking for an interesting story with little romance (zero spice) with some action then it’s worth a try!
Overall Adam (Alex) and Eli kept me interested but there are so many things I wish we had been able to see. A discussion about Eli being trans and his insecurities instead of just side comments that may or may not have been mentioning it (although I did like that Eli being a trans man was not the main plot line). Any kind of intimacy would have been great too.
The plot though unbelievable was fun so if you are looking for an interesting story with little romance (zero spice) with some action then it’s worth a try!
December 3, 2024
I almost DNF after Alex (Adam) thought he killed a man and then stole a boat. It did get better and became a nice (if different) Christmas story. I have to admit by being touched by the ending.
November 14, 2024
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
"It’s hard to imagine a pivot from “I stole your boat and drove it into a blizzard” to “Did you want to grab coffee sometime?” especially when you needed to sneak a corpse disposal somewhere in there."
.
This is a great novella holiday romance that was perfect for kicking off my holiday season reads!
Alex is built like a bruiser and comes off like one even though he's a softie at heart. He's trying to do the right thing but always seems to make the wrong decision and sometimes , like attempting to dispose of a body that isn't dead , and those mistakes aren't easily fixed. Eli is a sweetheart , I mean the 95% of the time we spend with him he's suffering from a terrible could but still manages to be kind , strong willed and have a sense of humor .
I was almost done before I realized there was no steam 😂 because these two were the level of precious with each other that I didn't even notice .
Overall, Deck the Hulls by Kat Cassidy is great holiday romance between an ex mobster trying to start over again in WITSEC and the man whose boat he stole . A quick read with a trans Male MC, no steam but two characters with great chemistry , unexpected humor, a storm at sea, boat malfunctions , not giving up and a happy ending.
Favorite Qoutes:
Favorite Quotes:
Which is actually quite handy when a burly, beefcake Santa has taken your boat for a joyride with you along as an unwilling passenger.
Adam’s batting zero- for- three tonight in the ‘don’t commit crimes’ department.
Meeting Eli feels like a small, rare gift in a life that’s been short on generosity lately.
“Anybody ever told you you’re bossy?” “Just you,” Eli shoots back with a grin, towel- drying his hair until his curls stick out in charming disarray. “But admit it, you kind of like it, don’t you, tough guy?” Adam smirks. “I mean, someone’s gotta keep me in line.”
“I don’t want you doubting that for a second. You are fucking great, Eli, just the way you are. And don’t let anyone, not even yourself, make you think otherwise.”
"It’s hard to imagine a pivot from “I stole your boat and drove it into a blizzard” to “Did you want to grab coffee sometime?” especially when you needed to sneak a corpse disposal somewhere in there."
.
This is a great novella holiday romance that was perfect for kicking off my holiday season reads!
Alex is built like a bruiser and comes off like one even though he's a softie at heart. He's trying to do the right thing but always seems to make the wrong decision and sometimes , like attempting to dispose of a body that isn't dead , and those mistakes aren't easily fixed. Eli is a sweetheart , I mean the 95% of the time we spend with him he's suffering from a terrible could but still manages to be kind , strong willed and have a sense of humor .
I was almost done before I realized there was no steam 😂 because these two were the level of precious with each other that I didn't even notice .
Overall, Deck the Hulls by Kat Cassidy is great holiday romance between an ex mobster trying to start over again in WITSEC and the man whose boat he stole . A quick read with a trans Male MC, no steam but two characters with great chemistry , unexpected humor, a storm at sea, boat malfunctions , not giving up and a happy ending.
Favorite Qoutes:
Favorite Quotes:
Which is actually quite handy when a burly, beefcake Santa has taken your boat for a joyride with you along as an unwilling passenger.
Adam’s batting zero- for- three tonight in the ‘don’t commit crimes’ department.
Meeting Eli feels like a small, rare gift in a life that’s been short on generosity lately.
“Anybody ever told you you’re bossy?” “Just you,” Eli shoots back with a grin, towel- drying his hair until his curls stick out in charming disarray. “But admit it, you kind of like it, don’t you, tough guy?” Adam smirks. “I mean, someone’s gotta keep me in line.”
“I don’t want you doubting that for a second. You are fucking great, Eli, just the way you are. And don’t let anyone, not even yourself, make you think otherwise.”
December 3, 2024
I liked it,but it was too rushed. I feel like we miss out on all important aspects of their relationship.
2.5 rounded up
2.5 rounded up
December 20, 2024
Here's the deal, drink two glasses of wine and then binge read this and it's plausible. Otherwise, after the first 15 pages you will DNF.
November 7, 2024
3.5 stars
This is a Christmas short that I feel is just a start to Alex and Eli's life
There were a few times whilst I was reading I was kind of "but really?" and it was a bit too much, if that make sense?
I didn't really feel much attraction or spark between them either. I know it took place over such a short time that that did not really have a chance to develop, but even little things like looks and innocent touches felt like they were missing.
It is a good start to what will be an interesting series if we get more in the future.
This is a Christmas short that I feel is just a start to Alex and Eli's life
There were a few times whilst I was reading I was kind of "but really?" and it was a bit too much, if that make sense?
I didn't really feel much attraction or spark between them either. I know it took place over such a short time that that did not really have a chance to develop, but even little things like looks and innocent touches felt like they were missing.
It is a good start to what will be an interesting series if we get more in the future.
December 3, 2024
This was a little Christmas novella that to me started out good then it went a bit choppy and hard to follow at times. It’s still a good little Christmas novella with some great romance.
November 6, 2024
4.5/5 stars
Deck the Hulls is a queer holiday novella about an ex-mobster and a trans boat captain. On his last straw before failing out of witness protection, Adam accidentally causes a death on Christmas Eve and foolishly decides to dispose of the dead body in the ocean. Unfortunately, the small boat he steals belongs to the very under the weather Elijah. When a blizzard pushes them off course with an engine on its last legs, they must work together to return to shore as sparks fly between them.
This novella was a cutesy romantic comedy while having a surprising amount of depth especially for its short length. I thought the entire concept was delightfully quirky with the totally accidental death and inept attempt at a body dump. There might have been a bit too much details on boating, but it was set entirely on a boat so that’s understandable. And the story ties everything together too neatly, but I am willing to accept that in my romcoms.
Both Adam and Eli were genuinely likable, but I do think we get to know Adam more than Eli. Adam is a man who found himself in a life he didn’t expect but is actively trying to make better for himself. It’s easy to root for him with his earnest desire to turn a new leaf despite some questionable choices. It helps that what happened was just so funny. Eli, meanwhile, is a down on his luck trans man whose gender identity was just a matter of fact and not a point of contention on the book. He is sunshiny and sweet and perhaps too optimistic. Their forced proximity, gumpy/sunshine romance felt authentic despite how quick it developed, especially after their rather deep and heartfelt conversations.
Deck the Hulls is a small town queer romantic comedy that offers a quick festive fix of laughs, ridiculousness, and love.
*Thank you to GRR Tours for the eARC.
Deck the Hulls is a queer holiday novella about an ex-mobster and a trans boat captain. On his last straw before failing out of witness protection, Adam accidentally causes a death on Christmas Eve and foolishly decides to dispose of the dead body in the ocean. Unfortunately, the small boat he steals belongs to the very under the weather Elijah. When a blizzard pushes them off course with an engine on its last legs, they must work together to return to shore as sparks fly between them.
This novella was a cutesy romantic comedy while having a surprising amount of depth especially for its short length. I thought the entire concept was delightfully quirky with the totally accidental death and inept attempt at a body dump. There might have been a bit too much details on boating, but it was set entirely on a boat so that’s understandable. And the story ties everything together too neatly, but I am willing to accept that in my romcoms.
Both Adam and Eli were genuinely likable, but I do think we get to know Adam more than Eli. Adam is a man who found himself in a life he didn’t expect but is actively trying to make better for himself. It’s easy to root for him with his earnest desire to turn a new leaf despite some questionable choices. It helps that what happened was just so funny. Eli, meanwhile, is a down on his luck trans man whose gender identity was just a matter of fact and not a point of contention on the book. He is sunshiny and sweet and perhaps too optimistic. Their forced proximity, gumpy/sunshine romance felt authentic despite how quick it developed, especially after their rather deep and heartfelt conversations.
Deck the Hulls is a small town queer romantic comedy that offers a quick festive fix of laughs, ridiculousness, and love.
*Thank you to GRR Tours for the eARC.
November 16, 2024
4.5 ⭐
This is a sweet and easy read, that got me in the holiday spirit. Sometimes in the search for the spiciest, steamiest read, I forget that what I’m really looking for at the end of the day is a good old fashioned love story. This was a good reminder.
Adam/Alex is in witness protection in the sleepy, wintry New England town of Sleepy Shoals, hoping to start over, but not sure how, when he bungles his way into commandeering Eli's boat to dispose of a body.
Eli is a trans captain of a failing fishing charter, trying to rebuild his life after a break-up. He falls asleep on his boat, sick with the flu, only to be surprised by a hulking stranger at the helm.
So here we have Adam/Alex and Eli, who wind up together on Eli‘s boat in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay, in a snow storm, on Christmas Eve after They have to work together to get back to land, and they catch feels in the process.
Both Adam/Alex and Eli are misunderstood in their own ways, but they end up being seen by one another. And isn’t that what we all want? So happy holidays to them.
My one gripe is, why did that poor boy have to lay in the bed with wet draws?
For a 100 page novella, there were some great lines, good banter, and a well paced development to the relationship. Both characters were able to share their backstory, so we can invest in their future. Nothing felt rushed, and the author did not try to squeeze too much in; everything was given its due.
There were actually three characters in the story. Adam/Alex, Eli, and the town where they live. Really, the setting, I suppose. The author does a great job of helping you feel like you are really there, painting the picture for you. I swear I was cold reading the entire story, that could just be because I was reading it from Maine, but she did make it sound cold.
CWs
Mentions of past violence
References to disposal of bodies
References to transphobia
References to bod y discomfort/dysmorphia
Tropes
Size difference
Forced proximity
Details
Sexual orientation of either MC not discussed
Cis/trans MCs
No spice
HEA
Quotes:
Maybe this is how Stockholm Syndrome starts.
Eli’s thigh is pressed against his, the kind of accidental contact that shouldn’t mean anything, but somehow feels like everything.
What had the shrink called it? Maladaptive codependency. Adam figures she should. have just cut to the chase and called it glutton for punishment.
Silver Shoals? Eli? That was always a fantasy, the place he had no right, dreaming about, a world men like him, or never meant to touch.
Eli pulls back with a regretful little sniffle, the drapes, another towel over Adam’s lap, a barrier between whatever this moment is in whatever it might have become.
All Adam wants is to become someone Eli would choose.
Each step is slow, measured, the confidence of a man who knows the world bends for him.
He’s anchored in love, buoyed hope.
This is a sweet and easy read, that got me in the holiday spirit. Sometimes in the search for the spiciest, steamiest read, I forget that what I’m really looking for at the end of the day is a good old fashioned love story. This was a good reminder.
Adam/Alex is in witness protection in the sleepy, wintry New England town of Sleepy Shoals, hoping to start over, but not sure how, when he bungles his way into commandeering Eli's boat to dispose of a body.
Eli is a trans captain of a failing fishing charter, trying to rebuild his life after a break-up. He falls asleep on his boat, sick with the flu, only to be surprised by a hulking stranger at the helm.
So here we have Adam/Alex and Eli, who wind up together on Eli‘s boat in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay, in a snow storm, on Christmas Eve after They have to work together to get back to land, and they catch feels in the process.
Both Adam/Alex and Eli are misunderstood in their own ways, but they end up being seen by one another. And isn’t that what we all want? So happy holidays to them.
My one gripe is, why did that poor boy have to lay in the bed with wet draws?
For a 100 page novella, there were some great lines, good banter, and a well paced development to the relationship. Both characters were able to share their backstory, so we can invest in their future. Nothing felt rushed, and the author did not try to squeeze too much in; everything was given its due.
There were actually three characters in the story. Adam/Alex, Eli, and the town where they live. Really, the setting, I suppose. The author does a great job of helping you feel like you are really there, painting the picture for you. I swear I was cold reading the entire story, that could just be because I was reading it from Maine, but she did make it sound cold.
CWs
Mentions of past violence
References to disposal of bodies
References to transphobia
References to bod y discomfort/dysmorphia
Tropes
Size difference
Forced proximity
Details
Sexual orientation of either MC not discussed
Cis/trans MCs
No spice
HEA
Quotes:
Maybe this is how Stockholm Syndrome starts.
Eli’s thigh is pressed against his, the kind of accidental contact that shouldn’t mean anything, but somehow feels like everything.
What had the shrink called it? Maladaptive codependency. Adam figures she should. have just cut to the chase and called it glutton for punishment.
Silver Shoals? Eli? That was always a fantasy, the place he had no right, dreaming about, a world men like him, or never meant to touch.
Eli pulls back with a regretful little sniffle, the drapes, another towel over Adam’s lap, a barrier between whatever this moment is in whatever it might have become.
All Adam wants is to become someone Eli would choose.
Each step is slow, measured, the confidence of a man who knows the world bends for him.
He’s anchored in love, buoyed hope.
November 7, 2024
All Aboard the Love Boat
Deck the Hulls
Kat Cassidy
Silver Shoals #1
Alex Simpson (aka Adam) got himself in trouble with the Greek mob but after seeing things he couldn't live with, turned witness and is in protection.
He's now in a small Massachusetts harbour town called Silver Shoals, after his last town hideaway went wrong.
Thing is, he's hard to hide.
He's six foot four, built like a linebacker and most people seem him as a dumb thug.
Running an errands for his bosses' so at the hardware store he works for, a mix up and a slippery floor had him stealing a boat to try and dump a body.
The boat - The Trans Atlantic - belongs to Eli who is unconscious inside the boat having downed a cold remedy until he stumbles up deck and finds a giant Santa (Adam) steering his boat.
This is a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity Christmas rom com.
It the kind of sequence of events you'd expect in a comedy of errors, but along the way, Eli, the sweet and cute but assertive trans guy chips away at the ex mob guy's tough veneer and the two have to bond together to survive the storm and get the boat back to shore.
Eli is feeling his body dysphoria without his top surgery, he has the added trauma of seeing his ex with his new boyfriend and he's got a stinking cold on top of it.
And Adam is surprisingly sweet and gentle.
It's also genuinely funny and romantic.
I loved these guys and I honestly look forward to reading more of Silver Shoals.
I also want to find out what happened to the other monster we heard about in anecdotal form from Reynolds near the beginning.
It's gay Hallmark with teeth.
Deck the Hulls
Kat Cassidy
Silver Shoals #1
Alex Simpson (aka Adam) got himself in trouble with the Greek mob but after seeing things he couldn't live with, turned witness and is in protection.
He's now in a small Massachusetts harbour town called Silver Shoals, after his last town hideaway went wrong.
Thing is, he's hard to hide.
He's six foot four, built like a linebacker and most people seem him as a dumb thug.
Running an errands for his bosses' so at the hardware store he works for, a mix up and a slippery floor had him stealing a boat to try and dump a body.
The boat - The Trans Atlantic - belongs to Eli who is unconscious inside the boat having downed a cold remedy until he stumbles up deck and finds a giant Santa (Adam) steering his boat.
This is a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity Christmas rom com.
It the kind of sequence of events you'd expect in a comedy of errors, but along the way, Eli, the sweet and cute but assertive trans guy chips away at the ex mob guy's tough veneer and the two have to bond together to survive the storm and get the boat back to shore.
Eli is feeling his body dysphoria without his top surgery, he has the added trauma of seeing his ex with his new boyfriend and he's got a stinking cold on top of it.
And Adam is surprisingly sweet and gentle.
It's also genuinely funny and romantic.
I loved these guys and I honestly look forward to reading more of Silver Shoals.
I also want to find out what happened to the other monster we heard about in anecdotal form from Reynolds near the beginning.
It's gay Hallmark with teeth.
November 25, 2024
I met Adam in Kat’s LA Vice book and I was intrigued as to what happened to him after the events in that book. This one is short and sweet. Poor Adam is trying to live a quiet life in witness protection and well he’s not so good at it. Eli is just trying to live his life on his boat when he gets hi-jacked on Christmas Eve in a blizzard. Bad boy ex gangster Adam has more under the surface. He truly is trying to move past his former life and it’s adorable to see this big guy following orders instead of giving them. Eli is more than meets the eye, despite being 80 pounds or so smaller than Adam, he puts him right in his place and tells him who’s captaining this boat and I love it! Sorry he’s my favorite, he’s got some great one liner responses that had me giggling to myself. This is a fast paced, quick and easy read. The story flows nicely and ends with my favorite kind of epilogue!
December 11, 2024
This book is entirely ridiculous, but fun the whole way through. Adam (aka Alex) is in witness protection after squealing on the Greek mob. But this poor guy just can't seem to shake off his past, and stumbles into one difficult situation after another! Like accidentally killing a grocery store clerk and stealing a boat to dump the body, only to accidentally add kidnapping to the mix when it turns out the boat's very sick (and very sexy) owner/captain is still on board. Oops!
There's one certain moment where Eli says something to Adam and Adam just sort of... collapses in on himself and gives up, and it just BROKE my heart clean in two. Love these two, and am hoping to read more books set in the small town of Silver Shoals!
There's one certain moment where Eli says something to Adam and Adam just sort of... collapses in on himself and gives up, and it just BROKE my heart clean in two. Love these two, and am hoping to read more books set in the small town of Silver Shoals!
November 7, 2024
A fun quick holiday read. Will keep you entertained and drawn in from the start. Had some issues either continuity of what is going on and is that really possible? It's one of those right on the fine line of reality and fantasy where too much was more fantasy than anything for me.
Did enjoy the chemistry of Eli & Alex for me. This was more of a prequel than an actual story. Would be willing to read more of the Silver Shoals world to see how it all plays out. So overall, a promising start for a quick read with the hope of expansion to tie the loose ends better.
Did enjoy the chemistry of Eli & Alex for me. This was more of a prequel than an actual story. Would be willing to read more of the Silver Shoals world to see how it all plays out. So overall, a promising start for a quick read with the hope of expansion to tie the loose ends better.
November 22, 2024
Ok, this was so short and good, I loved these two.
Adam was hiding and not doing a very good of it. He wanted a diferent life and he didn't the smalltown he was in was the solution. Lo and behold, he was obviously wrong.
I loved Eli, he was wary of Adam at first and the again when he discovered the truth but that didn't stop from really seeing the person Adam was. He wasn't a bad guy, just someone that made bad choices and was trying to leave them behind.
Adam was the cutest, like a giant teddy bear and Eli had spunk, I loved them
Adam was hiding and not doing a very good of it. He wanted a diferent life and he didn't the smalltown he was in was the solution. Lo and behold, he was obviously wrong.
I loved Eli, he was wary of Adam at first and the again when he discovered the truth but that didn't stop from really seeing the person Adam was. He wasn't a bad guy, just someone that made bad choices and was trying to leave them behind.
Adam was the cutest, like a giant teddy bear and Eli had spunk, I loved them
December 27, 2024
5 stars
This was so much fun. Did I think I needed a story about an ex-mobster in witness protection and a transmasc boat captain? No. But that's what I got, and I am here for it. The hijinks are fun and ridiculous, while the emotion is real and raw. This story is short but packs a punch. Adam and Eli are such interesting characters, and we get so much from them in the short amount of time we get with them. Oh, and Eli's ship's name is the Trans Atlantic, so that's just the cherry on top of everything. This was a great Christmas read, and I highly recommend it.
This was so much fun. Did I think I needed a story about an ex-mobster in witness protection and a transmasc boat captain? No. But that's what I got, and I am here for it. The hijinks are fun and ridiculous, while the emotion is real and raw. This story is short but packs a punch. Adam and Eli are such interesting characters, and we get so much from them in the short amount of time we get with them. Oh, and Eli's ship's name is the Trans Atlantic, so that's just the cherry on top of everything. This was a great Christmas read, and I highly recommend it.
December 20, 2024
That was absurd but i get im just not the public for it
December 25, 2024
When you're an ex-mobster hiding under witness protection, the last thing you need to do is accidentally kill someone, decide you're going to dump the body at sea, steal a boat and then discover you've been caught in the (almost) act by the cute, obviously ill owner of said boat...
Deck the Hulls does fall into the "suspend disbelief" realms on occasion, but overall it's a cute, funny story that just happens to occur at Christmas time. I do love that we get to know Adam Sgouros a little better, getting that insight to his past and his journey to mobster status, and I love all the nods to Eli's proud trans status and the way the two characters interact and fall for each other.
I look forward to more from the author in this spin off series.
Deck the Hulls does fall into the "suspend disbelief" realms on occasion, but overall it's a cute, funny story that just happens to occur at Christmas time. I do love that we get to know Adam Sgouros a little better, getting that insight to his past and his journey to mobster status, and I love all the nods to Eli's proud trans status and the way the two characters interact and fall for each other.
I look forward to more from the author in this spin off series.
November 25, 2024
Holiday Cheer Meter: 1/5
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
3rd person, present tense, dual POV
Adam Sgouros / Alexander Simmons (WITSEC identity), sales clerk at Harborview Hardware
Elijah Jensen, captain of the Trans Atlantic, owner of Tide and Seek Charter Tours
I've been waiting for a while for this one; I LOVE hidden identity, it's my favourite trope and Christmas stories are my absolute jam, I pretty much race through as many as I can throughout the months of November and December.
This was something of a zany dark comedy, which was pretty evident from the book synopsis so I went in with the expectation I was about to be taken on a bit of a wild ride, however, the set-up required a little more suspension of disbelief than I was expecting or, if I'm honest, capable of. The plot holes surround the body that ends up needing to be disposed of are big enough to sail a ship though, which is too bad because the rest of the absurd tale is amazing and I enjoyed every unhinged minute of it. Somehow, sheer determination because I loved the whole idea and the characters genuinely appealed to me, I managed to push that all aside and enjoy the rest of the novella.
It had great character development, especially for its length, enough backstory is given to understand who the characters are and their motivations, essentially lost, alone on a boat in the middle of the ocean getting to know one and other the banter was so much fun and the truthful revelations heartfelt. Alex is not adjusting well to his life in WITSEC and I loved how Eli encouraged him to find himself and his own happiness with the cards life had dealt him and the decisions he'd made. It wasn't easy, but it felt honest and genuine.
Their initial subtle attraction is evident, which lead to a sweet low-heat that I enjoyed a lot. As much as I devour the spicier side of romance I'm so glad the author didn't rush the couple into the bedroom here because it absolutely wouldn't have fit with the narrative. With more time, it would have felt right, but it wasn't quite time for them to take their relationship there given everything else that was going on and the heightened emotions between them. I adored that one of the characters was trans and it was not a huge plot point of the story, more just a fact, much like the fact that his hair was curly.
This book does have a spicy bonus scene (tbh I'm a little sad that the bonus epilogue took us there, though I'm sure I'm in the minority) that occurs between the last chapter of the book and its epilogue and it is a smidge awkward, but incredibly sweet.
I wish the author had just included it in the book instead of making the reader jump though a bunch of engagement hoops to get it. It's so discouraging to have to sign up for a newsletter to get the rest of the story I just bought, because, yeah, this read a little like a deleted scene that should have been included to show the couple taking the next steps to establish their relationship. The story was complete without it but it isn't nearly so satisfying as seeing them fit together once they're back in the 'real world'.
Anywho, I enjoyed the story, wish a little more thought had gone into making the entire 'body' storyline a little believable, but that small negative is outweighed by a whole lot of positives so I definitely recommend giving this story a try.
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
3rd person, present tense, dual POV
Elijah Jensen, captain of the Trans Atlantic, owner of Tide and Seek Charter Tours
I've been waiting for a while for this one; I LOVE hidden identity, it's my favourite trope and Christmas stories are my absolute jam, I pretty much race through as many as I can throughout the months of November and December.
This was something of a zany dark comedy, which was pretty evident from the book synopsis so I went in with the expectation I was about to be taken on a bit of a wild ride, however, the set-up required a little more suspension of disbelief than I was expecting or, if I'm honest, capable of. The plot holes surround the body that ends up needing to be disposed of are big enough to sail a ship though, which is too bad because the rest of the absurd tale is amazing and I enjoyed every unhinged minute of it. Somehow, sheer determination because I loved the whole idea and the characters genuinely appealed to me, I managed to push that all aside and enjoy the rest of the novella.
It had great character development, especially for its length, enough backstory is given to understand who the characters are and their motivations, essentially lost, alone on a boat in the middle of the ocean getting to know one and other the banter was so much fun and the truthful revelations heartfelt. Alex is not adjusting well to his life in WITSEC and I loved how Eli encouraged him to find himself and his own happiness with the cards life had dealt him and the decisions he'd made. It wasn't easy, but it felt honest and genuine.
Their initial subtle attraction is evident, which lead to a sweet low-heat that I enjoyed a lot. As much as I devour the spicier side of romance I'm so glad the author didn't rush the couple into the bedroom here because it absolutely wouldn't have fit with the narrative. With more time, it would have felt right, but it wasn't quite time for them to take their relationship there given everything else that was going on and the heightened emotions between them. I adored that one of the characters was trans and it was not a huge plot point of the story, more just a fact, much like the fact that his hair was curly.
This book does have a spicy bonus scene (tbh I'm a little sad that the bonus epilogue took us there, though I'm sure I'm in the minority) that occurs between the last chapter of the book and its epilogue and it is a smidge awkward, but incredibly sweet.
I wish the author had just included it in the book instead of making the reader jump though a bunch of engagement hoops to get it. It's so discouraging to have to sign up for a newsletter to get the rest of the story I just bought, because, yeah, this read a little like a deleted scene that should have been included to show the couple taking the next steps to establish their relationship. The story was complete without it but it isn't nearly so satisfying as seeing them fit together once they're back in the 'real world'.
Anywho, I enjoyed the story, wish a little more thought had gone into making the entire 'body' storyline a little believable, but that small negative is outweighed by a whole lot of positives so I definitely recommend giving this story a try.
November 7, 2024
3.5 stars
This was a really nice Christmas story.
Adam/Alex was involved with greek mob and now is under WITSEC protection. Silver Shoals is not the first town he was placed in, because he previously failed at the "lie low" thing. This is his last chance to make things work, but he feels lonely and he misses his old life, so he's not adjusting very well.
Eli is a trans guy, he owns a boat and he's trying to start his own business but after being dumped by his boyfriend, things are difficult.
After an "accident" Adam wants to use Eli's boat to deal with an unexpected problem, but he doesn't know Eli is on board, sleeping.
During the hours they spend together on the boat, between confessions, lies, affection and attraction, Adam and Eli will find out that they have a lot in common and that they could be good for each other.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
The lack of intimacy between the MCs. I'm not talking about explicit physical scenes, I didn't mind that there aren't ny, but I would have loved for them to be more close with kisses, small touches, sweet talking. The romantic side of the story left me a little disappointed.
Eli's transition: when the character is introduced, we know a few things about that, like him having to postpone top surgery and his boyfriend not completely being able to love him for who he really is. But then, this whole part of him is completely forgotten, he and Adam have a sort of conversation with a lot of thing left unsaid. I believe they should have been more open about that.
The bonus scene could have been a good opportunity to show them being intimate (again, no explicit scenes needed), but it was all about Adam.
Still a lovely story, short, easy to read with a good happy ending.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
This was a really nice Christmas story.
Adam/Alex was involved with greek mob and now is under WITSEC protection. Silver Shoals is not the first town he was placed in, because he previously failed at the "lie low" thing. This is his last chance to make things work, but he feels lonely and he misses his old life, so he's not adjusting very well.
Eli is a trans guy, he owns a boat and he's trying to start his own business but after being dumped by his boyfriend, things are difficult.
After an "accident" Adam wants to use Eli's boat to deal with an unexpected problem, but he doesn't know Eli is on board, sleeping.
During the hours they spend together on the boat, between confessions, lies, affection and attraction, Adam and Eli will find out that they have a lot in common and that they could be good for each other.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
The lack of intimacy between the MCs. I'm not talking about explicit physical scenes, I didn't mind that there aren't ny, but I would have loved for them to be more close with kisses, small touches, sweet talking. The romantic side of the story left me a little disappointed.
Eli's transition: when the character is introduced, we know a few things about that, like him having to postpone top surgery and his boyfriend not completely being able to love him for who he really is. But then, this whole part of him is completely forgotten, he and Adam have a sort of conversation with a lot of thing left unsaid. I believe they should have been more open about that.
The bonus scene could have been a good opportunity to show them being intimate (again, no explicit scenes needed), but it was all about Adam.
Still a lovely story, short, easy to read with a good happy ending.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
December 11, 2024
This is a new to me author and I absolutely loved this book. It was true to the blurb and the promised hijinks and fun was happily enjoyed. This is the story of Adam/Alex Simmons and Elijah Jensen. Adam in in Witness Protection and has been given the new identity of Alex Simmons. As an ex enforcer for the greek mob, Alex is having a hard time fitting in. In a small town that he can't relate to, Alex is working at the local hardware store. When ordered by his boss to go collect owed money, Alex ends up accidentally causing the death of someone. Panicking, he takes his old enforcer friends advice, it is always good to get rid of a body in the ocean. Off he and the body to and he "borrows" a fishing boat to go and dump the body. Things don't go according to plan. Eli is the captain of the Trans Atlantic fishing boat and owner of Tide and Seek Charter Tours. He also lives on board his boat. Once Eli wakes up from heavy due cold medicine he realizes that his boat is moving. This is how he and Alex meet. Realizing that he has to figure out where they are so that they can make it safely back to land, Eli puts the "boatnapping" to the side. Besides, there is also a terrible snow storm that has just blown in to make things worse. This is their story. Now I am sure that you are wondering how in the world that this is going to work out. Don't you worry. The author has it all figured out. Just enjoy the ride. Their relationship is hard enough to figure out but when the dead body isn't dead, all bets are off. That's when the fun really begins. This is a well written book and easy to read. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to more books by this author.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2024
Pépite, pépite!
J’ai énormément rigolé grâce aux personnages principaux (et même malgré eux parfois😆).
Adam a intégré WITSEC (le programme de protection des témoins) après la mort accidentelle du mari de sa patronne baronne de la drogue (qu’il était sensé protéger).
Et très franchement, c’est tant mieux, car il n’était pas fait pour être gangster.😅
Les apparences jouent toujours en sa défaveur (le type est grand, costaud et bourru) mais ce coup-ci les choses sont vraiment mal tombées. (Ahah, jeux de mots! Vous comprendrez quand vous aurez lu le livre😂).
Ce n’est pas un mauvais bougre, loin s’en faut, disons qu’il est juste… pas très doué pour rester discret et loin des ennuis.😅
Elijah est une frêle brindille par rapport à la carrure d’ours d’Adam mais il a l’aplomb d’un capitaine de bateau. Un capitaine qui sait qu’une tempête arrive et qu’il est trop dangereux de naviguer contre elle.
Bloqués ensemble en pleine mer (ça nous change des chalets enneigés), ils n’ont pas grand chose d’autre à faire que parler en attendant de rejoindre le rivage. Et j’ai vraiment adoré leurs interactions tantôt drôle, tantôt sérieuses, touchante et vulnérable.
La romance entre eux est vraiment adorable et très amusante.😂 Car même réduit à l’état d’amas de fluides visqueux divers, malade et affaibli Eli parvient malgré tout à séduire Adam bien que celui-ci ait essayé de voler (emprunté, il l’aurait rapporté) son bateau.
⚓️Romance MM (Trans M/Cis M)
🎅Identité secrète
⚓️Proximité forcée
🎅Différence de tailles
⚓️2POV
Et n’oubliez pas d’aller lire la short story de leur premier nouvel an ensemble.🥰
J’ai énormément rigolé grâce aux personnages principaux (et même malgré eux parfois😆).
Adam a intégré WITSEC (le programme de protection des témoins) après la mort accidentelle du mari de sa patronne baronne de la drogue (qu’il était sensé protéger).
Et très franchement, c’est tant mieux, car il n’était pas fait pour être gangster.😅
Les apparences jouent toujours en sa défaveur (le type est grand, costaud et bourru) mais ce coup-ci les choses sont vraiment mal tombées. (Ahah, jeux de mots! Vous comprendrez quand vous aurez lu le livre😂).
Ce n’est pas un mauvais bougre, loin s’en faut, disons qu’il est juste… pas très doué pour rester discret et loin des ennuis.😅
Elijah est une frêle brindille par rapport à la carrure d’ours d’Adam mais il a l’aplomb d’un capitaine de bateau. Un capitaine qui sait qu’une tempête arrive et qu’il est trop dangereux de naviguer contre elle.
Bloqués ensemble en pleine mer (ça nous change des chalets enneigés), ils n’ont pas grand chose d’autre à faire que parler en attendant de rejoindre le rivage. Et j’ai vraiment adoré leurs interactions tantôt drôle, tantôt sérieuses, touchante et vulnérable.
La romance entre eux est vraiment adorable et très amusante.😂 Car même réduit à l’état d’amas de fluides visqueux divers, malade et affaibli Eli parvient malgré tout à séduire Adam bien que celui-ci ait essayé de voler (emprunté, il l’aurait rapporté) son bateau.
⚓️Romance MM (Trans M/Cis M)
🎅Identité secrète
⚓️Proximité forcée
🎅Différence de tailles
⚓️2POV
Et n’oubliez pas d’aller lire la short story de leur premier nouvel an ensemble.🥰
November 9, 2024
4.5/5 This is a new to me author, and this Christmas novella packed an emotional wallop of second chances and redemption. I’m not a huge fan of mafia stories, but since this was someone getting out, I decided to give it a try, and I’m glad I did. Adam makes some very poor choices, but it’s also clear how much he’s trying to be different (and how those old habits linger).
I really wasn’t sure at first how one big event could possibly be resolved, but the author was well ahead of me. (I should have thought of that, lol!) Despite its relative shortness, I found the arc very believable, with Eli and Adam clicking, shocking revelations messing things up, and extenuating circumstances evening things out. It felt to me like someone might really react like that under those circumstances.
I liked how both Eli and Adam had their struggles, how they could connect through them and find a new future together. (And I really sympathised about Eli’s cold. Those symptoms were brutal, and I was really feeling it while reading it!) This is exactly the sort of redemption story I like, softened with lots of Christmas feels.
I read this in basically one sitting, right before bed. I was just going to start it, and then read one more chapter. Okay, and one more. Alright, what’s a bed time: one more! It sucked me right in to see it through and figure out how everything would get resolved.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
I really wasn’t sure at first how one big event could possibly be resolved, but the author was well ahead of me. (I should have thought of that, lol!) Despite its relative shortness, I found the arc very believable, with Eli and Adam clicking, shocking revelations messing things up, and extenuating circumstances evening things out. It felt to me like someone might really react like that under those circumstances.
I liked how both Eli and Adam had their struggles, how they could connect through them and find a new future together. (And I really sympathised about Eli’s cold. Those symptoms were brutal, and I was really feeling it while reading it!) This is exactly the sort of redemption story I like, softened with lots of Christmas feels.
I read this in basically one sitting, right before bed. I was just going to start it, and then read one more chapter. Okay, and one more. Alright, what’s a bed time: one more! It sucked me right in to see it through and figure out how everything would get resolved.
I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
November 17, 2024
📅 publication date: November 19, 2024
Este libro me llamo la atención por su portada y diré que le hace completamente justicia porque fue una linda historia corta, me reí con estos personajes que fueron muy interesantes, una muy bonita representación y una trama que me gusto. Desde el robo del barco estos dos personajes se embarcan en una tormenta literal) y la magia sucede entre los dos, sienten que se entienden entre ellos y mientras leía solo tenia una sonrisa por lo bonito que fue, al ser corto todo pasa rápido (mucho mas con el problema que llevo a Adam a robar el barco con Elijah dentro) pero me gusto, el final fue lo mas lindo y solo quiero mas de estos personajes.
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This book caught my attention because of its cover and I will say that it completely does it justice because it was a cute short story, I laughed with these characters that were very interesting, a very lovely representation and a plot that I liked. Since the theft of the boat these two characters embark on a storm (literally) and magic happens between the two, they feel that they understand each other and while reading I just had a smile for how nice it was, being short everything happens fast (much more with the problem that led Adam to steal the boat with Elijah inside) but I liked it, the ending was the nicest and I just want more of these characters.
📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
Este libro me llamo la atención por su portada y diré que le hace completamente justicia porque fue una linda historia corta, me reí con estos personajes que fueron muy interesantes, una muy bonita representación y una trama que me gusto. Desde el robo del barco estos dos personajes se embarcan en una tormenta literal) y la magia sucede entre los dos, sienten que se entienden entre ellos y mientras leía solo tenia una sonrisa por lo bonito que fue, al ser corto todo pasa rápido (mucho mas con el problema que llevo a Adam a robar el barco con Elijah dentro) pero me gusto, el final fue lo mas lindo y solo quiero mas de estos personajes.
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This book caught my attention because of its cover and I will say that it completely does it justice because it was a cute short story, I laughed with these characters that were very interesting, a very lovely representation and a plot that I liked. Since the theft of the boat these two characters embark on a storm (literally) and magic happens between the two, they feel that they understand each other and while reading I just had a smile for how nice it was, being short everything happens fast (much more with the problem that led Adam to steal the boat with Elijah inside) but I liked it, the ending was the nicest and I just want more of these characters.
📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
November 18, 2024
"It’s hard to imagine a pivot from “I stole your boat and drove it into a blizzard” to “Did you want to grab coffee sometime?” especially when you needed to sneak a corpse disposal somewhere in there."
Alex/Adam is struggling to re-start his life in WITSEC, especially in the cold, snowy confines of Silver Shoals. To find his true identity, to find his place and purpose while looking over his shoulder for danger can be hard.... when he's sent on a harmless errand that's oddly reminiscent of his criminal past?? Well, things go a wee bit 'overboard' if you'll pardon the pun.
Eli is down on his luck ship captain. Also struggling to start up his business, find his place in Silver Shoals after a break up and his identity as a trans man. I appreciated that Eli being trans is just part of his existence, not a major plot point or conflict in any way.
When Alex's late night mistakes lead him to 'borrowing' Eli's boat and driving them straight into a blizzard?! The sick captain and the reformed mob man find that they actually have more in common than differences.
The plot does require some suspension of disbelief, but overall the story is sweet, kind, and about connection/support. The spice is zero to low, with only a couple of kisses or touches exchanged, but I think it works for the pace and tone of story.
*advanced reader. thoughts and opinions my own*
Alex/Adam is struggling to re-start his life in WITSEC, especially in the cold, snowy confines of Silver Shoals. To find his true identity, to find his place and purpose while looking over his shoulder for danger can be hard.... when he's sent on a harmless errand that's oddly reminiscent of his criminal past?? Well, things go a wee bit 'overboard' if you'll pardon the pun.
Eli is down on his luck ship captain. Also struggling to start up his business, find his place in Silver Shoals after a break up and his identity as a trans man. I appreciated that Eli being trans is just part of his existence, not a major plot point or conflict in any way.
When Alex's late night mistakes lead him to 'borrowing' Eli's boat and driving them straight into a blizzard?! The sick captain and the reformed mob man find that they actually have more in common than differences.
The plot does require some suspension of disbelief, but overall the story is sweet, kind, and about connection/support. The spice is zero to low, with only a couple of kisses or touches exchanged, but I think it works for the pace and tone of story.
*advanced reader. thoughts and opinions my own*
November 6, 2024
Good plot but there were some hard to believe situations. Adam doesn’t bother to check the pulse of the person he accidentally killed. He also scared the guy for no reason with his word choice and locking the door. Also are there no cameras in the store? It’s mentioned that blood is on the floor but Adam doesn’t bother to clean it, he just takes the body and leaves. One of the main characters is a transgender man and that topic isn’t really ever brought up. And I felt like that was a bit of a let down. I wanted them to have a conversation, especially because in the beginning Eli mentions his self doubt flaring up. This led me to believe Eli still struggles with how he views himself or how he wants people to view him. I would have loved to have read him and Adam talking about it and maybe Adam showing his support. The way they resolved the store clerk situation was not really believable. We also only get a few kisses would have loved to have read some more intimate times with them. And the ending where Adam comes face to face with his pass (literally) and the guy doesn’t even recognize him…🙃.
November 20, 2024
3.5 rounded up
Loved this but it needed AT LEAST like, 100 more pages. This was a great INTRODUCTION to the characters, I even loved the setting of how they met - even though the conclusion to that situation is entirely unrealistic I still loved this story.
But unfortunately it left me wanting more and I prefer to be left satisfied instead.
There's a lot of descriptions about how sick Eli is including spraying snot when he sneezes all over something and a constant runny nose, all I kept thinking about was that Adam was definitely going to get sick too. And then they kiss while Eli is sick! And then they kiss again when Adam is the one who is sick and we only get a non-sick kiss in the epilogue!
The entire relationship happens off page. We don't get to see any milestones. There's a proposal in the epilogue but I felt it was sorta' overshadowed by throwing in Adam's panic at seeing someone from his past.
I liked it enough to want more but it also left me wanting more to be satisfied 🙈
Also, no spice which is fine, just 3(?) kisses but the author is offering a spicy scene if you sign up for their newsletter? Which i did not do so 🤷🏻♀️
Loved this but it needed AT LEAST like, 100 more pages. This was a great INTRODUCTION to the characters, I even loved the setting of how they met - even though the conclusion to that situation is entirely unrealistic I still loved this story.
But unfortunately it left me wanting more and I prefer to be left satisfied instead.
There's a lot of descriptions about how sick Eli is including spraying snot when he sneezes all over something and a constant runny nose, all I kept thinking about was that Adam was definitely going to get sick too. And then they kiss while Eli is sick! And then they kiss again when Adam is the one who is sick and we only get a non-sick kiss in the epilogue!
The entire relationship happens off page. We don't get to see any milestones. There's a proposal in the epilogue but I felt it was sorta' overshadowed by throwing in Adam's panic at seeing someone from his past.
I liked it enough to want more but it also left me wanting more to be satisfied 🙈
Also, no spice which is fine, just 3(?) kisses but the author is offering a spicy scene if you sign up for their newsletter? Which i did not do so 🤷🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2024
Godforsaken frozen wasteland, maladaptive codependency, Athena's Grace II
Alex is his witness protection program name. He's been relocated to small port town, Silver Shoals. Through no fault of his own, Alex "steals" Eli's boat, The Trans America in order to dump a body out at sea. Poor Alex, although he's no longer a mob thug, he looks like one and people make assumptions about him.
Eli is a trans male, but it has to be inferred by the reader. He's resting on his boat, dealing with the mother of all head colds when someone commanders the sole source of his livelihood. In a snowstorm.
Most of the story takes place on the Tide & Seek while at sea during a punishing nor'easter. The story is unpredictable and captivating keeping it intriguing. There's really only the MCs and just a few of very minor characters. The imagery is spectacularly descriptive and well-written. It's easily visualized. The storyline is solid and flows splendidly. I enjoyed reading this very much and found it satisfying. I recommend it.
Alex is his witness protection program name. He's been relocated to small port town, Silver Shoals. Through no fault of his own, Alex "steals" Eli's boat, The Trans America in order to dump a body out at sea. Poor Alex, although he's no longer a mob thug, he looks like one and people make assumptions about him.
Eli is a trans male, but it has to be inferred by the reader. He's resting on his boat, dealing with the mother of all head colds when someone commanders the sole source of his livelihood. In a snowstorm.
Most of the story takes place on the Tide & Seek while at sea during a punishing nor'easter. The story is unpredictable and captivating keeping it intriguing. There's really only the MCs and just a few of very minor characters. The imagery is spectacularly descriptive and well-written. It's easily visualized. The storyline is solid and flows splendidly. I enjoyed reading this very much and found it satisfying. I recommend it.
November 19, 2024
Deck the Hull is a heartwarming, easy read that really captures the cozy, feel-good vibes of the holiday season. It’s a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the most satisfying stories aren’t the steamiest, but rather the ones that center around genuine connection and love. The story follows Adam/Alex, who is in witness protection and trying to start fresh in the quiet New England town of Sleepy Shoals and Eli, a trans man and the captain of a struggling fishing charter, is trying to rebuild his life after a tough breakup.
Caught together on Eli’s boat during a snowstorm on Christmas Eve, the two must work together to navigate their way back to land. In the process, they begin to understand each other and develop a connection that turns into something more. Both men are misunderstood in their own ways, but in each other, they find someone who truly sees them for who they are. It’s a sweet story about finding love when you least expect it, and the idea that being seen and understood by someone else is the best gift of all. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with a story that feels warm, genuine, and full of heart.
Caught together on Eli’s boat during a snowstorm on Christmas Eve, the two must work together to navigate their way back to land. In the process, they begin to understand each other and develop a connection that turns into something more. Both men are misunderstood in their own ways, but in each other, they find someone who truly sees them for who they are. It’s a sweet story about finding love when you least expect it, and the idea that being seen and understood by someone else is the best gift of all. Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit with a story that feels warm, genuine, and full of heart.
November 18, 2024
Adam is in witness protection and he’s not good at it. Trying to stay out of trouble only seems to get him into more. An accidental death adds to his trouble and his solution is to hijack a boat to dump the body. Eli happens to be on the boat, suffering from a killer cold and too much medication. Neither man is prepared for the storm they are drifting into.
I liked how strangers slotted together to save themselves from a vicious storm. Eli had every reason to doubt Adam but instead went with his gut and trusted the man that hijacked his boat. Adam knew he couldn’t trust anyone but instinctively trusted Eli with his life. Their secrets, Adam’s past, Eli’s trans journey, both taking second place to staying alive.
This was a sweet story that involved fighting for their lives, some redemption for Adam, finding peace, and finally the person you’ve needed. Christmas was peripheral and there was just a few kisses between the men.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I liked how strangers slotted together to save themselves from a vicious storm. Eli had every reason to doubt Adam but instead went with his gut and trusted the man that hijacked his boat. Adam knew he couldn’t trust anyone but instinctively trusted Eli with his life. Their secrets, Adam’s past, Eli’s trans journey, both taking second place to staying alive.
This was a sweet story that involved fighting for their lives, some redemption for Adam, finding peace, and finally the person you’ve needed. Christmas was peripheral and there was just a few kisses between the men.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
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