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All Wrapped Up
Struggling actor Rick Thornton is on a downward spiral. Once a celebrated stage and screen star, scandal and heartbreak caused the roles to dry up. Persuaded by his agent to take a temp job as Santa at the local mall to get himself back in the game, he's hit rock bottom.
Budding actor Jayden Collins is fighting to fund his drama school education. With no family to turn to, he’s left alone in his university digs over the Christmas holidays. But he’s landed the best temp job ever—playing the elf at the local mall’s grotto, spreading joy and gifts to the children. Especially as he’ll be starring opposite the Rick Thornton.
But Rick is a cynical, bitter shell of his former self, drowning his sorrows in alcohol and Jayden soon learns the truth behind the never meet your heroes. As complaints stack up, threatening to close the grotto, Jayden and Rick must join forces to keep it open. Along the way, they uncover more about each other than meets the eye.
Beneath the glittering wonderland of festivities in London, Jayden and Rick are drawn together by more than just necessity. In each other’s company, they find solace, understanding, and an unexpected spark of romance, giving them both a newfound hope for the future.
But when Christmas is all wrapped up, will Santa still need his playful little elf?
All Wrapped Up is an Age Gap, Grumpy/Sunshine, Found Family steamy standalone MM holiday romance featuring a washed-up actor spiralling out of control and a care-experienced happy-go-lucky drama student desperate to change his fate.
Budding actor Jayden Collins is fighting to fund his drama school education. With no family to turn to, he’s left alone in his university digs over the Christmas holidays. But he’s landed the best temp job ever—playing the elf at the local mall’s grotto, spreading joy and gifts to the children. Especially as he’ll be starring opposite the Rick Thornton.
But Rick is a cynical, bitter shell of his former self, drowning his sorrows in alcohol and Jayden soon learns the truth behind the never meet your heroes. As complaints stack up, threatening to close the grotto, Jayden and Rick must join forces to keep it open. Along the way, they uncover more about each other than meets the eye.
Beneath the glittering wonderland of festivities in London, Jayden and Rick are drawn together by more than just necessity. In each other’s company, they find solace, understanding, and an unexpected spark of romance, giving them both a newfound hope for the future.
But when Christmas is all wrapped up, will Santa still need his playful little elf?
All Wrapped Up is an Age Gap, Grumpy/Sunshine, Found Family steamy standalone MM holiday romance featuring a washed-up actor spiralling out of control and a care-experienced happy-go-lucky drama student desperate to change his fate.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2024
About the author
C.F. White
28 books169 followersBrought up in a relatively small town in Hertfordshire, C F White managed to do what most other residents try to do and fail—leave.
She eventually settled for pie and mash, cockles and winkles and a bit of Knees Up Mother Brown to live in the East End of London; securing a job and creating a life, a home and a family.
She writes gritty British based stories about imperfect men falling in love against the odds and has been accused of sprinkling a bit of humour into them from time to time too.
She eventually settled for pie and mash, cockles and winkles and a bit of Knees Up Mother Brown to live in the East End of London; securing a job and creating a life, a home and a family.
She writes gritty British based stories about imperfect men falling in love against the odds and has been accused of sprinkling a bit of humour into them from time to time too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 15, 2024
I have never read so many Elf puns, or so much Santa themed dirty talk 😂
I really enjoyed Jayden and Rick's grumpy/sunshine relationship, especially because they were both ready to go all in almost immediately but held back because that's not what you're 'supposed' to let someone know!
Also liked the little cameo from Devon, Jay and Seb's fostered/adopted son from the District Line series - still one of my favourite series!!
Definitely got me in the festive mood!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I really enjoyed Jayden and Rick's grumpy/sunshine relationship, especially because they were both ready to go all in almost immediately but held back because that's not what you're 'supposed' to let someone know!
Also liked the little cameo from Devon, Jay and Seb's fostered/adopted son from the District Line series - still one of my favourite series!!
Definitely got me in the festive mood!
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
November 10, 2024
Oh my goodness. I've just finished this book, and I'm sitting in a coffee shop waiting for Matthew to finish shopping, but I had to write this review before I forgot what I wanted to say.
This was an utterly perfect age gap Christmas story with two men who didn't look like they fit, who suddenly did. I absolutely loved Jaden, he'd overcome so much in his life to become such a positive person. And Rick was just awesome, so beaten down but climbing out to be a better man.
It's a complete stand-alone, so there's no extra characters that you need to worry about, and friends and a family play a big part in the story, which is my absolute favourite thing.
Beautifully written.
Highly recommended six out of five!!
This was an utterly perfect age gap Christmas story with two men who didn't look like they fit, who suddenly did. I absolutely loved Jaden, he'd overcome so much in his life to become such a positive person. And Rick was just awesome, so beaten down but climbing out to be a better man.
It's a complete stand-alone, so there's no extra characters that you need to worry about, and friends and a family play a big part in the story, which is my absolute favourite thing.
Beautifully written.
Highly recommended six out of five!!
November 13, 2024
C.F. White has written a real heartwarmer with All Wrapped Up. This sweet, age gap, hurt/comfort romance has all the right feels for a holiday. So grab your cocoa or a rich glass of red, and enjoy!
White always writes steamy romances (you can count on that!), and All Wrapped Up is on the lighter side, which was just what I needed to kick of the 2024 holiday season.
an advanced reader copy of All Wrapped Up was graciously provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
White always writes steamy romances (you can count on that!), and All Wrapped Up is on the lighter side, which was just what I needed to kick of the 2024 holiday season.
an advanced reader copy of All Wrapped Up was graciously provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
December 6, 2024
This was just what I needed to get me out of my grump and get me ready for Christmas!!! I'm a massive fan of C.F. White so I knew I'd enjoy this. Not as steamy as some of her other works BUT this didn't actually need it. There is some spice in there though, don't worry ;)
I'm a sucker for an age gap lately but throw in the whole hurt/comfort side to it too and I was sold!!
Bring on Christmas!!
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
I'm a sucker for an age gap lately but throw in the whole hurt/comfort side to it too and I was sold!!
Bring on Christmas!!
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
November 8, 2024
Rick is a forty-year-old faded actor without work, drinking and smoking way too much, and lying to his proud parents about non-existent roles.
There was a time when he had jobs, friends, a social life, lovers, a future, but now, he’s lonely and grumpy. Betrayal broke him down.
Jayden is a broke, final-year drama student at ULC, brought up in children’s homes and foster placements.
Even where everyone goes home for the holidays, Jayden stays at the U during the summers and the holidays, he has no place to call home.
He’s the sunshine in this story.
The grumpy Santa and the ever-optimistic elf, the elf pokes the bear… ehh Santa. They are soothing for each others battered hearts and souls!
“Last Christmas” is a theme here, an emotional one.
With every chapter we get to know these men better, their characteristics, their ups and downs, their past, the awful amount of hurt both been through, their present and we have a look at their future, because dang they deserve and beautiful future together.
This author writes the best stories, with rich layered characters and emotions all over the pages.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
There was a time when he had jobs, friends, a social life, lovers, a future, but now, he’s lonely and grumpy. Betrayal broke him down.
Jayden is a broke, final-year drama student at ULC, brought up in children’s homes and foster placements.
Even where everyone goes home for the holidays, Jayden stays at the U during the summers and the holidays, he has no place to call home.
He’s the sunshine in this story.
The grumpy Santa and the ever-optimistic elf, the elf pokes the bear… ehh Santa. They are soothing for each others battered hearts and souls!
“Last Christmas” is a theme here, an emotional one.
With every chapter we get to know these men better, their characteristics, their ups and downs, their past, the awful amount of hurt both been through, their present and we have a look at their future, because dang they deserve and beautiful future together.
This author writes the best stories, with rich layered characters and emotions all over the pages.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
October 27, 2024
OMG!!! I loved this book so much, Jayden is the most amazing MC
Rick is an actor in disgrace after a relationship left him without a job, without a career. To relaunch his career, his agent gets him a job as Santa Claus in a decrepit shopping mall about to close.
Jayden, an aspiring college student who works cleaning up the same shopping mall, takes the job as an elf
When they meet, Jayden recognizes Rick as his idol and while Jayden is sunshine, Rick is grumpy.
They start with strangers, acquaintances, friends and hooking up
Can they be something more?
Rick is an actor in disgrace after a relationship left him without a job, without a career. To relaunch his career, his agent gets him a job as Santa Claus in a decrepit shopping mall about to close.
Jayden, an aspiring college student who works cleaning up the same shopping mall, takes the job as an elf
When they meet, Jayden recognizes Rick as his idol and while Jayden is sunshine, Rick is grumpy.
They start with strangers, acquaintances, friends and hooking up
Can they be something more?
November 18, 2024
Rating: 3.5 stars
I really, REALLY like Jayden - not such a fan of Rick (shocking, I know (not)). I want to give Jayden a hug so badly, he puts up with so much and tries so hard and he's just so GOOD. C.F. White did do a good job of making me come around to liking Rick, giving him character growth and redemption in a very believable way. He's the perfect example of the phrase "Hurt people hurt people."
I won't spoil anything, but the ending to this book was the absolutely best ending and the most satisfying (even though, yes, it was kind of predictable and I saw it coming from several chapters away, it was still THE BEST).
I really, REALLY like Jayden - not such a fan of Rick (shocking, I know (not)). I want to give Jayden a hug so badly, he puts up with so much and tries so hard and he's just so GOOD. C.F. White did do a good job of making me come around to liking Rick, giving him character growth and redemption in a very believable way. He's the perfect example of the phrase "Hurt people hurt people."
I won't spoil anything, but the ending to this book was the absolutely best ending and the most satisfying (even though, yes, it was kind of predictable and I saw it coming from several chapters away, it was still THE BEST).
November 20, 2024
Sweet, lovely, and just the right amount of fluffy. Also had some heavy, angsty bits to give it some nice weight and depth. Pleasantly surprised at how well-written it was. My heart ached for both Rick and Jayden. They had both been through it, in very different ways, and I loved how perfect they were for one another, once they got over the angsty bumps. Plenty of Christmas spirit and a very lovely HEA. AND the villain got his just desserts, thank Baby Jesus.
November 20, 2024
Perfect read to get you in the mood for the festive season
November 6, 2024
Wow, what a ride! This made me really feel all the feels. From gloom and despair to hope.
I am honest here when I say I read in the summary: bigger age gap, grumpy sunshine, Christmas, playing Santa and elf...
I immediately was: oh yes please, sign me up! That's right up my alley. Something happy and fun.
Yeah, I managed to ignore the other infos about struggling, and spiralling out of control etc. That's MY mistake.
When I started reading it, a gloom settled over me the more I got to know about Rick's and Jayden's situations. With those difficult and heavy backgrounds of our MCs it's no wonder that for a big part of the story the mood was very sombre.
And honestly I should have expected it if I'd've read the summary careful. My bad.
The book may not have been what I personally hoped for – not the fault of the book – but it was still entertaining and all in all, a good read.
The MCs pasts tugged at my heartstrings and it was often heartbreaking to read about their circumstances. I wanted to hug them – yes, both, because reading about Jayden being all alone in his dorm-room was not what I wished for him.
Jayden may have been more of a happy sunshiny guy all in all but even he couldn't escape his own loneliness and the gloom that sometimes settled over him (no family, alone on campus for Christmas, money is very tight, therefore often hungry etc)
And then there is Rick - a fallen star even if not necessary through his own fault. He's bitter and grumpy, nearly an alcoholic. Partially understandable to be honest. He's broken in some ways, nearly giving up on himself.
When I first saw those two together they did not seem like a match made in heaven. But Jayden, more of an old soul himself, managed to breath new life into Rick and gave him some kind of purpose and hope for the future. They managed to build a solid relationship after some hiccups.
Really CF managed wonderfully to get the story turned around and let these two find what they needed - each other, a solid relationship, love and a new vision as well as purpose in life. Well deserved after those two went through the wringer in their pasts.
So I can still say even if it was not the fluffy, only happy story I was after, it was a solid, well done and entertaining read that had me invested in the story and made me feel all the feels.
Btw I loved Rick's parents. They were simply wonderful, supporting people. I adored them.
And that 'the baddie' got what was coming for him was satisfying to see.
I am honest here when I say I read in the summary: bigger age gap, grumpy sunshine, Christmas, playing Santa and elf...
I immediately was: oh yes please, sign me up! That's right up my alley. Something happy and fun.
Yeah, I managed to ignore the other infos about struggling, and spiralling out of control etc. That's MY mistake.
When I started reading it, a gloom settled over me the more I got to know about Rick's and Jayden's situations. With those difficult and heavy backgrounds of our MCs it's no wonder that for a big part of the story the mood was very sombre.
And honestly I should have expected it if I'd've read the summary careful. My bad.
The book may not have been what I personally hoped for – not the fault of the book – but it was still entertaining and all in all, a good read.
The MCs pasts tugged at my heartstrings and it was often heartbreaking to read about their circumstances. I wanted to hug them – yes, both, because reading about Jayden being all alone in his dorm-room was not what I wished for him.
Jayden may have been more of a happy sunshiny guy all in all but even he couldn't escape his own loneliness and the gloom that sometimes settled over him (no family, alone on campus for Christmas, money is very tight, therefore often hungry etc)
And then there is Rick - a fallen star even if not necessary through his own fault. He's bitter and grumpy, nearly an alcoholic. Partially understandable to be honest. He's broken in some ways, nearly giving up on himself.
When I first saw those two together they did not seem like a match made in heaven. But Jayden, more of an old soul himself, managed to breath new life into Rick and gave him some kind of purpose and hope for the future. They managed to build a solid relationship after some hiccups.
Really CF managed wonderfully to get the story turned around and let these two find what they needed - each other, a solid relationship, love and a new vision as well as purpose in life. Well deserved after those two went through the wringer in their pasts.
So I can still say even if it was not the fluffy, only happy story I was after, it was a solid, well done and entertaining read that had me invested in the story and made me feel all the feels.
Btw I loved Rick's parents. They were simply wonderful, supporting people. I adored them.
And that 'the baddie' got what was coming for him was satisfying to see.
November 7, 2024
I’ve been a fan of CF White’s writing for quite a while now and stories like All Wrapped Up are one of the reasons why.
The blurb lets you know that this is a grumpy/sunshine, age-gap, holiday romance. What it can’t convey is all of the feels that this book gave me. I’m a sucker for stories that feature characters that are opposite in their financial situations. This one takes just a bit different turn than others I’ve read. Here we have Rick, a reasonably wealthy actor who is down on his luck, and Jayden, a university student, who is ever the optimist even though life hasn’t been too good to him. (Usually, it’s the wealthy guy pulling up the poor guy, not the poor guy pulling up the wealthy one.)
The author takes her time, letting us know what caused Rick’s downfall in little tidbits until all is finally revealed at around 60% into the story. While I was on pins and needles wanting to know what happened, I was also captivated by the rest of the story that surrounded the mystery.
Jayden and Rick’s journey to their HEA was not the easiest of roads to travel but it also wasn’t as angsty as some books I’ve read by CF White. I think she found the perfect blend for this wonderful love story that embodied the spirit of Christmas.
I almost forgot to mention that the story contains a lot of punny goodness, most of it involving an impish elf. 😊
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
The blurb lets you know that this is a grumpy/sunshine, age-gap, holiday romance. What it can’t convey is all of the feels that this book gave me. I’m a sucker for stories that feature characters that are opposite in their financial situations. This one takes just a bit different turn than others I’ve read. Here we have Rick, a reasonably wealthy actor who is down on his luck, and Jayden, a university student, who is ever the optimist even though life hasn’t been too good to him. (Usually, it’s the wealthy guy pulling up the poor guy, not the poor guy pulling up the wealthy one.)
The author takes her time, letting us know what caused Rick’s downfall in little tidbits until all is finally revealed at around 60% into the story. While I was on pins and needles wanting to know what happened, I was also captivated by the rest of the story that surrounded the mystery.
Jayden and Rick’s journey to their HEA was not the easiest of roads to travel but it also wasn’t as angsty as some books I’ve read by CF White. I think she found the perfect blend for this wonderful love story that embodied the spirit of Christmas.
I almost forgot to mention that the story contains a lot of punny goodness, most of it involving an impish elf. 😊
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
November 18, 2024
CF White’s All Wrapped Up is a perfect example of why I’ve been a long-time fan of her writing. This grumpy/sunshine, age-gap holiday romance delivers more than the blurb could ever promise—it’s packed with heartfelt moments and unexpected depth.
The story takes a refreshing twist on the usual financial disparity trope. Rick, a once-successful but now down-on-his-luck actor, meets Jayden, an ever-optimistic university student who hasn’t had an easy life. Instead of the typical "wealthy guy saving the poor guy" narrative, it’s Jayden who helps pull Rick back to life. Their dynamic is heartfelt, with Jayden’s relentless positivity and Rick’s guarded vulnerability creating a captivating push-and-pull.
The author masterfully reveals the mystery of Rick’s fall from grace in small, tantalising pieces, keeping you hooked until all is unveiled around the 60% mark. While the tension keeps you engaged, the surrounding story brims with charm, warmth, and the magic of the holiday season.
Rick and Jayden’s path to their happily ever after isn’t without its challenges, but CF White strikes the perfect balance between drama and sweetness. Add in some clever humour—largely courtesy of a mischievous elf—and this book becomes a delightful holiday treat. Full of heart and Christmas spirit, All Wrapped Up is a must-read.
The story takes a refreshing twist on the usual financial disparity trope. Rick, a once-successful but now down-on-his-luck actor, meets Jayden, an ever-optimistic university student who hasn’t had an easy life. Instead of the typical "wealthy guy saving the poor guy" narrative, it’s Jayden who helps pull Rick back to life. Their dynamic is heartfelt, with Jayden’s relentless positivity and Rick’s guarded vulnerability creating a captivating push-and-pull.
The author masterfully reveals the mystery of Rick’s fall from grace in small, tantalising pieces, keeping you hooked until all is unveiled around the 60% mark. While the tension keeps you engaged, the surrounding story brims with charm, warmth, and the magic of the holiday season.
Rick and Jayden’s path to their happily ever after isn’t without its challenges, but CF White strikes the perfect balance between drama and sweetness. Add in some clever humour—largely courtesy of a mischievous elf—and this book becomes a delightful holiday treat. Full of heart and Christmas spirit, All Wrapped Up is a must-read.
November 8, 2024
A fun, age-gap, grumpy/sunshine holiday romance that unwittingly pairs a struggling Santa with an aspiring elf. I’m pretty sure neither Rick nor Jayden expected to find love in Santa’s Workshop, but holiday magic has a way of surprising and delighting.
Rick’s an acclaimed Shakespearean actor who finds himself on the outside looking in, his career in shambles after he’s disgraced by scandal. He’s been given one last chance to turn things around if he can give the performance of his life as a mall Santa. Maybe a little unconventional, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
Every Santa needs an elf, and Jayden’s just the person for the job. Being promoted to elf is the perfect break for an aspiring theater student, and a welcome hiatus from his usual janitorial duties at the mall. He can’t believe his luck when he discovers Santa is none other than one of his biggest idols.
I very much enjoyed this holiday romp with its emotional entanglements and personal challenges. Learning the full extent to Rick’s downfall was maddening, and I was enraged on his behalf. He deserves so much better, and I appreciate how he grows from accepting his plight to going after what he wants. The same could be said for Jayden, who hasn’t had the easiest start and has overcome so much to get to where he is. How he's managed to maintain his positive outlook is truly amazing.
Age gap romances can sometimes be a challenge for me, because I don’t always feel the MCs are portrayed as equals. In the case of Rick and Jayden, they’re forced together by circumstance, and I never felt they were anything but co-workers making the best of the situation. Seeing the spark between them ignite was sweet, and I was rooting for them the whole way.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
Rick’s an acclaimed Shakespearean actor who finds himself on the outside looking in, his career in shambles after he’s disgraced by scandal. He’s been given one last chance to turn things around if he can give the performance of his life as a mall Santa. Maybe a little unconventional, but desperate times call for desperate measures.
Every Santa needs an elf, and Jayden’s just the person for the job. Being promoted to elf is the perfect break for an aspiring theater student, and a welcome hiatus from his usual janitorial duties at the mall. He can’t believe his luck when he discovers Santa is none other than one of his biggest idols.
I very much enjoyed this holiday romp with its emotional entanglements and personal challenges. Learning the full extent to Rick’s downfall was maddening, and I was enraged on his behalf. He deserves so much better, and I appreciate how he grows from accepting his plight to going after what he wants. The same could be said for Jayden, who hasn’t had the easiest start and has overcome so much to get to where he is. How he's managed to maintain his positive outlook is truly amazing.
Age gap romances can sometimes be a challenge for me, because I don’t always feel the MCs are portrayed as equals. In the case of Rick and Jayden, they’re forced together by circumstance, and I never felt they were anything but co-workers making the best of the situation. Seeing the spark between them ignite was sweet, and I was rooting for them the whole way.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
November 12, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
This is a cute story from author C.F. White, even with some heavier themes. Rick wants to be back on stage and certainly doesn’t want to be the mall Santa. He has money to carry him, but he wants his career back, after falling for the wrong guy destroyed it. Jayden is used to being alone, but it never gets any easier. Still, he remains positive, even when his funds are low and life alone in the dorms is bleak.
You’ll find the grumpy/sunshine trope here, as despite his background, Jayden remains upbeat and cheerful. He slowly gets Rick to drink more coffee instead of liquor and look toward a plan for his future.
This is a good choice to get you in the holiday spirit a little earlier this year, with just the right amount of elf puns to keep you smiling.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
This is a cute story from author C.F. White, even with some heavier themes. Rick wants to be back on stage and certainly doesn’t want to be the mall Santa. He has money to carry him, but he wants his career back, after falling for the wrong guy destroyed it. Jayden is used to being alone, but it never gets any easier. Still, he remains positive, even when his funds are low and life alone in the dorms is bleak.
You’ll find the grumpy/sunshine trope here, as despite his background, Jayden remains upbeat and cheerful. He slowly gets Rick to drink more coffee instead of liquor and look toward a plan for his future.
This is a good choice to get you in the holiday spirit a little earlier this year, with just the right amount of elf puns to keep you smiling.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
November 7, 2024
I loved Rick and Jayden’s story, and its focus on family, misconceptions, and following your dreams. I also loved the friendships and side characters, and everything the MCs go through to finally get their HEA. The Elf jokes were a lot of fun.
I loved how Jayden gets past Rick’s walls to the real man behind them, and how Rick starts to come out of himself. Their connection, despite Rick’s determination not to all for his elf, friendship and more is sweet. I loved how the story tone shifts when Rick’s past catches up with him, and how all that is resolved.
Rick’s parents are wonderful, and I loved the small town Christmas vibe, and his plans to give back to the town.
I liked that this world is populated by a mix of good people, those not so great, like Rick’s neighbour, Simeon, and the really awful like Derek, who totally deserves everything karma can throw at him.
Rick and Jayden’s HEA, and the glimpse into their future is a perfect ending to a wonderful read.
I loved how Jayden gets past Rick’s walls to the real man behind them, and how Rick starts to come out of himself. Their connection, despite Rick’s determination not to all for his elf, friendship and more is sweet. I loved how the story tone shifts when Rick’s past catches up with him, and how all that is resolved.
Rick’s parents are wonderful, and I loved the small town Christmas vibe, and his plans to give back to the town.
I liked that this world is populated by a mix of good people, those not so great, like Rick’s neighbour, Simeon, and the really awful like Derek, who totally deserves everything karma can throw at him.
Rick and Jayden’s HEA, and the glimpse into their future is a perfect ending to a wonderful read.
November 10, 2024
This is my favorite book by CF so far!
She has gifted us a wonderful story...and not just for the holiday season, but one filled with reminders to be thankful for what we have, all year long.
You can fill in so many 'pithy' sayings that fit...
What goes around comes around.
You'll reap what you sow.
Good things come to those who wait.
True love is worth waiting for.
It's too bad that Jayden and Rick have to experience so much pain before they get their HEA.
Of course, as they reminded us, Ebenezer Scrooge had to suffer as well, before he became the man he was at the end of the Christmas Carol.
Be prepared for so much love your heart will brim over.
So many sweet moments that your faith in your fellow man will be restored.
Rick and Jayden perfectly complimented each other's strengths.
Jayden found the family he desperately needed and was able to enrich the lives of others in the process.
Thank you GRR for this ARC. I will be rereading this for many years.
She has gifted us a wonderful story...and not just for the holiday season, but one filled with reminders to be thankful for what we have, all year long.
You can fill in so many 'pithy' sayings that fit...
What goes around comes around.
You'll reap what you sow.
Good things come to those who wait.
True love is worth waiting for.
It's too bad that Jayden and Rick have to experience so much pain before they get their HEA.
Of course, as they reminded us, Ebenezer Scrooge had to suffer as well, before he became the man he was at the end of the Christmas Carol.
Be prepared for so much love your heart will brim over.
So many sweet moments that your faith in your fellow man will be restored.
Rick and Jayden perfectly complimented each other's strengths.
Jayden found the family he desperately needed and was able to enrich the lives of others in the process.
Thank you GRR for this ARC. I will be rereading this for many years.
November 14, 2024
Both Rick and Jayden are struggling with live. Rick once had it Allas an actor but a scandal tanked his career and the only job he can get is being a mall Santa. It is there he meets Jayden. Jayden is alone in life and working to pay for his university tuition, and is hired to be Santa's elf. As an aspiring actor Jayden is excited to meet his idol Rick, but when he does he is disappointed to learn that Rick is cynical, bitter and using alcohol to get through life. Despite Rich's personality, these two start hanging out together and the book is a balance of will they or want they act of feelings. I loved how they supported once another and it is thought that support that love blossomed. Sometimes intense, sometimes funny, this age gap book remind me that love wins and finding our true love can change our lives and help correct the path we are on. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
November 23, 2024
I loved that this one brought us Christmas in London at the level of playing Santa and his elf for kids at the mall. I also enjoyed the fact that one main character was on his way down in the acting world and the other was struggling to rise. Each man got a glimpse of his past and his future, respectively. It's no wonder Rick is a bitter man at the beginning with a serious drinking problem and it was sad to see Jayden start out so excited to meet him only to be heartbreakingly disillusioned by the man he meets. A threat to their common livelihood gives them a purpose, however, and in working together the each get to find self-respect again in the case of Rick and understanding in the case of Jayden. That opens up a friendship that leads to much more. A very happy holiday ending for these two and a great read.
November 9, 2024
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Santa gets a gift this season!
A wonderful Christmas story to start the season off that brings all the feels.
Santa, aka Rick, is an accomplished actor on the outs of the industry. Spiralling out of control, he’s taken a job as Santa, a job he’s none to please about. Until he meets Jayden. Young and determined, he gives his all to the job and along the way sparks life back into Rick.
A lot of healing and soul-searching. And love. A lot of love.
All Wrapped Up is full of warmth and holiday vibes.
Santa gets a gift this season!
A wonderful Christmas story to start the season off that brings all the feels.
Santa, aka Rick, is an accomplished actor on the outs of the industry. Spiralling out of control, he’s taken a job as Santa, a job he’s none to please about. Until he meets Jayden. Young and determined, he gives his all to the job and along the way sparks life back into Rick.
A lot of healing and soul-searching. And love. A lot of love.
All Wrapped Up is full of warmth and holiday vibes.
November 17, 2024
3.5⭐️
This has a pretty perfect setup for a lovely holiday romance, grumpy/sunshine with a mall Santa and his university student elf. There’s also quite a lot of heartache and painful pasts for both Jayden and Rick, so I would not say it’s a light holiday read. It does have wonderful characters, an excellent Christmas vibe, and enough humor in the writing to keep it from getting too maudlin. A little long and slow for me, but with tons of emotion in the writing. I did love seeing them grow closer and find some healing in being together. I also loved the ending, it was lovely seeing Rick find some success and contentment in his new theater and in Jayden.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
This has a pretty perfect setup for a lovely holiday romance, grumpy/sunshine with a mall Santa and his university student elf. There’s also quite a lot of heartache and painful pasts for both Jayden and Rick, so I would not say it’s a light holiday read. It does have wonderful characters, an excellent Christmas vibe, and enough humor in the writing to keep it from getting too maudlin. A little long and slow for me, but with tons of emotion in the writing. I did love seeing them grow closer and find some healing in being together. I also loved the ending, it was lovely seeing Rick find some success and contentment in his new theater and in Jayden.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
November 17, 2024
Really enjoyed this sweet story of Rick, a washed up actor whose career was derailed by false allegations of inappropriate behavior, and Jayden, essentially an orphan and an university acting student on the verge of graduation. Rick, grumpy, takes a job as a mall Santa and Jayden, sunshine, has taken on the role of his elf assistant. Over time, they get to know one another and also to discover that they are better together than alone. Despite being sweet with just a hint of spice, this story has some darker issues that the MCs must overcome on their way to their HEA. Fear not, however, there is some humor too in the form of Elf/holiday puns and even some festive dirty talk! I enjoyed this very much. I'm pretty tired of age gaps, personally, but this was done very well.
November 9, 2024
Hitting rock bottom, hurts! Rick, was a stage and screen star, he stumbled and looses it all. His agent suggests he take a job as a Santa trying to get back in the game. Jayden, is just beginning his acting career struggling to fun his education. He is happy to be working as an elf opposite Rick Summer, his hero until he meets the new depressed Rick. Then the livlihood of many is in jeopardy and Rick needs to step up and work with Rick to save their jobs. This is a fun feel good story that works through real problems that happen during the holidays unexpectedly challenging Rick and Jayden. Good story, well done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2024
C.F has fast become one of my go to authors. I fell in love with her Fall Into Love series,and have read the majority of her books since. This one didn't disappoint. When I read a Christmas tale I want traditional offerings, trees (✓), pressies (✓), happy families (✓), snow (✓), good food (✓), and love, with a HEA (✓ ✓). This has it all. Rick, who's a grumpy auld bugger at the beginning of the story, and Jayden, who's a sweet young guy, lonely , but with an old soul, are perfect for one another. I love how they were drawn together, and became a couple. There's some dastardliness, causing Rick's unhappiness, but fortunately the baddie gets his comeuppance, the bastard! I cheered 🤓 C.F has put together a story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, it totally left me emotionally invested in Rick and Jayden's journey. Their relationship is the heart of the story, their connection, despite the age difference, is both palpable and believable. I absolutely loved Rick's mum and dad, they brought Rick down to earth, and never judged. Lovely tale 😍
November 6, 2024
Rick's only acting gig he could get was Santa Claus at the Mall after the scandal. It doesn't get much lower than that! Jayden is a third year acting student at the University and with his background has little trust. Rick feels broken but Jayden breathes new life into him. With hot times between them, they build a bridge to restore their confidence and create a solid relationship. The piece of sunshine Jayden brings a Christmas miracle to grumpy Rick, one that Santa couldn't top. I received a copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my voluntary opinion.
November 9, 2024
This book even though based in England hit a little to close to home for me this holiday season. It truly was a beautiful story and a reminder to not take our life situations for granted but also we have a choice in how we choose to see the world despite those circumstances.
Men from two different sides of the track so to speak both in terms of financial but also attitude. I love where this book went and how the idea of making it big doesn’t always mean what we think it does and your plan B so to speak can be so much more fulfilling and life giving.
Men from two different sides of the track so to speak both in terms of financial but also attitude. I love where this book went and how the idea of making it big doesn’t always mean what we think it does and your plan B so to speak can be so much more fulfilling and life giving.
November 8, 2024
This isn't your average light and fluffy Christmas romance. There are some darker issues, like the trauma of a care home upbringing, sexual misconduct allegations, depression and alcoholism. There is a neat and fluffy ending, which I liked. It depends whether you like your Christmas romance with a darker (realistic?) side too. I was rooting for Jayden all the way, he keeps smiling in the face of adversity and deserved all the good things.
November 30, 2024
Rick and Jayden ❤️
4 Stars ⭐️
Awwww!!! This was so swoon worthy!! I mean we get a grumpy Santa and a sunny elf who's determined to break through Santa's hard shell and reach the squishy middle 🥹 surprisingly this book had so much more emotion than I was expecting but it only added to this super sweet and heartfelt read. I'd recommend, this book made me happy.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
4 Stars ⭐️
Awwww!!! This was so swoon worthy!! I mean we get a grumpy Santa and a sunny elf who's determined to break through Santa's hard shell and reach the squishy middle 🥹 surprisingly this book had so much more emotion than I was expecting but it only added to this super sweet and heartfelt read. I'd recommend, this book made me happy.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
November 7, 2024
This was a good read it’s not the fluffy story you think from the cover as both MCs have difficult backgrounds. The story is an age gap grumpy/sunshine holiday romance. Reading the start of the story it’s hard to see Rick and Jayden together but as you read you see the connection growing between them and it feels great to watch them them get their hea. Good read.
November 7, 2024
This was a fun, undemanding read. I'm not sure I believe some of the premises, but I liked both the MCs, and the way the story progressed wasn't overly predictable. The creepy neighbor seemed out of place, but I guess that's partly a setup for a forthcoming book. At any rate, I enjoyed reading this story.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
November 8, 2024
This book was a fun holiday read. This is an age gap, grumpy/sunshine read about disgraced former actor Rick and Jayden, who is working through college trying to make it as an actor. Rick has had his life destroyed by a past relationship and is trying to work his way back into acting. I loved how this HEA ended, great way to find their happiness.
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