The greatest gift might be what they already have.After years away building his career, event planner Sebastian Chesnut returns to his small hometown of Fir Falls to reconnect with his mother, sister, and young nieces before his job takes him to London.He doesn’t expect to find his high school boyfriend, Matty, has become a virtual member of Seb’s family. Back then, Matty only offered a casual … only offered a casual relationship, but Seb fell hard, and history is soon repeating itself. Seb’s afraid to hope for a second chance, no matter how much they’ve grown and despite the family they share. Instead, he focuses on creating a last perfect holiday, which won’t be easy with his sister’s ex planning to take the girls over Christmas.
Seb and Matty might not know what to do about their feelings for each other, but one thing’s for sure—it won’t be Christmas without the kids. Can these star-crossed lovers pull off a holiday miracle?
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Sebastian seems to be battling himself and his personal responsibilities. He really has helped his family stay afloat but coming home is causing him to shift his thinking and it is taking him time to figure out what to do next. As he reconnects with his family and his old friend it gives him a whole new perspective. Helping to make dreams come true really gives him what he needs to move forward in a new way. I love the epilogue and the way it wraps and how we get to see how it all works out.
I found this story lots of fun to read. I loved all of the characters from Matt and Seb to Seb’s mom, sister and of course the two little girls. I love second chances and this was a good example. There are a couple of interesting subplots like the issue of Seb’s sister’s divorce and the kids having to spend the holiday with their dad and Seb’s looming job offer.
The story is sweet, romantic at times, and witty too. (I hope to get to see Jackson and Cam’s story soon!)
If you like event planners, artists, second chances, cute kids, holiday stories and a sweet, hot romance you will like this.
I enjoyed this story about a second chance at love.
I thought both men felt very real, as did their reactions to what happens in the story. I loved their connection, and how they are awkward around each other at first, then rediscover friendship and more. I liked that the author showed them at work, and how good they both are at what their chosen paths in life.
I loved the family vibe, and how, although the Chesnut’s aren’t Matt’s family they are his family by choice, and that Seb, feels like the outsider because he hasn’t been around. I felt for Matt and the stark difference between the atmosphere of his own home growing up, and the welcoming down to earth vibe of Seb’s family. I also liked how Seb’s nieces slowly warm to him as they get to know each other and I felt for him not knowing his family and feeling like Matt is more family than he is. I loved Steph, Seb’s sister, and her friendship with Matt. This story has several strong women, which I like.
I also liked the glimpses of Jackson, Matt’s apprentice, and Cameron, and would love to read more about them.
This story reminded me of a Hallmark movie, and I mean that in a very positive way as I love Hallmark Christmas movies, and I loved the theme through it that home isn’t a place, it’s being with the people you love.
The ending made me happy and I loved the peek with the epilogue into the future. All in all a very satisfying read, which I thought was perfect for Christmas but also for any time of the year.
I’d recommend this story to readers who enjoy feel good, low angst Christmas stories with realistic characters, and a strong family vibe.