LIGHT UP is a hurt comfort one bed holiday romance with a paranormal twist. This is an absolute must read if you're in the mood for a magical holiday romance!
From the blurb:
Corey’s day has gone from bad to worse. First, he loses his job. Then his home. Now he’s crawling through a blizzard in a beat-up car, hoping to sneak into his uncle’s empty house for a lonely Christmas in front of a big-screen TV. But the universe isn’t done with him yet. He’s lost, the snow’s getting heavier—and there’s a truck riding his bumper like it’s personal.
Tal can’t escape his office Christmas party fast enough—especially after a humiliating nickname from his school days rears its ugly head. All he wants is peace and quiet at the Airbnb he’s rented for the holidays. No friends, no fuss, no festive drama. But when he sees a truck barrelling towards him, all he can do is swerve, hang on tight and hope.
The hit and run leaves Corey and Tal stranded in the middle of a snowy nowhere. With no help in sight, their only choice is to walk. Thank goodness for the isolated hotel they finally stumble across when they just can’t go on anymore. It seems like salvation. But something isn’t quite right, and that isn’t just because when the doors open, it looks as if Christmas has exploded.
Warnings
Magical realism. Age gap. Road traffic accident. Neurodivergent representation including an autistic main character. Reference to past trauma as a young adult and mental health care. Brief mention of suicide ideation. Loss of parents. Sexual assault—not rape (off page). A hotel straight out of a Hallmark movie. And snow! An amazing amount of snow, in England, at Christmas. Unheard of.
The main characters are navigating what they need in a relationship, which at times gently explores themes related to kink. There are references to BDSM labels, but nothing explicit or intense—no hardcore content, and nothing that should feel unsafe to most readers.
Angel's review:
Barbara is a new-to-me author and what better time to get introduced to her work? Holiday MM romance with autism rep? Yes, please!
I enjoyed reading this book, its unique because of the hotel these two stumble upon after their crash. I don't want to spoil anything but I found that whole aspect to be immensely detailed, well described, and it was absolutely magical!
At first glance you wouldn't think Tal and Corey go together, there's an age gap between the two, and while Corey thrives in chaos and holiday cheer, Tal does not. I absolutely loved this opposites attract romance story, its probably one of the most unique holiday stories I've read. Its just so adorable and I loved reading about all the holiday activities both of these men participated in.
The growth both of these characters went through was immense, I enjoyed being able to see both of them grow more comfortable with themselves and standing up for what they want. That moment where Corey stood up to Louis was amazing! I was mentally cheering him on for not only standing up for himself, but also for standing up for his relationship with Tal as well.
The relationship building was so cute and these two have so much chemistry and depth between them. Their banter was amusing to read, they exchanged barbs, witty remarks, corny jokes, and also had heartfelt and raw conversations that helped make their relationship feel more real.
All in all this was a fantastic read and I wish there was a Solas Suas in real life because I would definitely go! Cookie decorating, bingo, painting?? Sign me up!!
Molly Otto's review:
All I can say this book is not what I was expecting and wow does it put you through all the emotions.
Tal & Corey both on their way to escape end up in a car wreck that changes everything. They land at a hotel where they learn to let each other in and heal from their pasts. Barbara does a beautiful job in their autism rep, where it didn't feel forced but is what it is. When they are rescued from their ordeal and real life comes crashing in thats when thIngs get real. Their time at the hotel enabled them to fight for the future they deserve. A unique holiday read that I can say is unlike any others I've read.
SNik's review:
Holiday standalone. Mystical. Age gap. Neurodivergent representation. Light BDSM. Only one bed. Forced proximity. Dual POV.
Corey just lost his job and his bedsit, so he is traveling to his uncle’s empty house when he’s in a horrible car accident. Tal is escaping the holidays to stay alone in a vacation rental and is involved in the same car accident as Corey, so they trudge together towards an isolated hotel in order to find shelter.
There’s certainly something special about the hotel Corey and Tal find, and as they are forced to room together they spend time getting to know each other and enjoying holiday activities together. Corey and Tal have a huge amount of honest communication that leads to shared interests, but neither is sure of looking toward the future when they are in the unusual bubble of the hotel. I enjoyed Corey’s joyful and positive determination as it draws Tal into intimate conversations and fun. Both these men have faced difficulties both in the present and past, but they have a special connection which is so hopeful and perfect for them; I rooted for them to find a way to be together. This was a special and sweet holiday read.
Light Up is currently available as an e-book and can be read as part of your Kindle Unlimited Subscription
Light Up is currently available as an e-book and can be read as part of your Kindle Unlimited Subscription
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