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Holiday Hideaway
1 hour, 59 minutes
From New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews comes a charming holiday romance about a newly single thirtysomething whose unauthorized vacation rental turns into a hilarious game of hide-and-seek when the new owner unexpectedly shows up.
Tilly Farriday isn’t feeling very jolly this season. Recently divorced and broke, she’s squatting in one of her rental agency’s properties until her new home is ready. The sprinkles on top of the burnt Christmas cookie that is her life? The new owner shows up early, forcing Tilly to hide in the attic to save her job…and what remains of her dignity.
George Holloway is here to sell his granduncle’s house—and to reconsider whether he and his fiancée are right for each other. Amid home repairs, George notices strange noises and missing food, but as much as he gets his rental agent on the phone, Tilly dodges every invitation to meet. He’s sure that someone’s here with him, and it’s certainly not the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present, or Future.
As Tilly and George circle each other, they both wonder where their lives are headed and if, maybe, meeting each other is just the Christmas miracle they need.
From New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews comes a charming holiday romance about a newly single thirtysomething whose unauthorized vacation rental turns into a hilarious game of hide-and-seek when the new owner unexpectedly shows up.
Tilly Farriday isn’t feeling very jolly this season. Recently divorced and broke, she’s squatting in one of her rental agency’s properties until her new home is ready. The sprinkles on top of the burnt Christmas cookie that is her life? The new owner shows up early, forcing Tilly to hide in the attic to save her job…and what remains of her dignity.
George Holloway is here to sell his granduncle’s house—and to reconsider whether he and his fiancée are right for each other. Amid home repairs, George notices strange noises and missing food, but as much as he gets his rental agent on the phone, Tilly dodges every invitation to meet. He’s sure that someone’s here with him, and it’s certainly not the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present, or Future.
As Tilly and George circle each other, they both wonder where their lives are headed and if, maybe, meeting each other is just the Christmas miracle they need.
Audible Audio
Expected publication October 29, 2024
About the author
Mary Kay Andrews
65 books12.5k followershttps://marykayandrews.com/
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MARY KAY ANDREWS is the New York Times bestselling author of 30 novels (including The Homewreckers, The Santa Suit, The Newcomer; Hello, Summer; Sunset Beach; The High Tide Club; The Weekenders; Beach Town; Save the Date; Ladies’ Night; Christmas Bliss; Spring Fever; Summer Rental; The Fixer Upper; Deep Dish; Blue Christmas; Savannah Breeze; Hissy Fit; Little Bitty Lies; and Savannah Blues), and one cookbook, The Beach House Cookbook.
A native of St. Petersburg, Florida, she earned a B.A. in journalism from The University of Georgia. After a 14-year career working as a reporter at newspapers including The Savannah Morning News, The Marietta Journal, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, where she spent the final ten years of her career, she left journalism in 1991 to write fiction.
Her first novel, Every Crooked Nanny, was published in 1992 by HarperCollins. She went on to write ten critically acclaimed mysteries under her real name, Kathy Hogan Trocheck. In 2002, she assumed the pen name Mary Kay Andrews with the publication of Savannah Blues. In 2006, Hissy Fit became her first New York Times bestseller, followed by twelve more New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestsellers. To date, her novels have been published in German, Italian, Polish, Slovenian, Hungarian, Dutch, Czech and Japanese.
She and her family divide their time between Atlanta and Tybee Island, GA, where they cook up new recipes in two restored beach homes, The Breeze Inn and Ebbtide—both named after fictional places in Mary Kay’s novels, and both available to rent through Tybee Vacation Rentals. In between cooking, spoiling her grandkids, and plotting her next novel, Mary Kay is an intrepid treasure hunter whose favorite pastime is junking and fixing up old houses.
https://www.facebook.com/marykayandre...
https://www.instagram.com/marykayandr...
MARY KAY ANDREWS is the New York Times bestselling author of 30 novels (including The Homewreckers, The Santa Suit, The Newcomer; Hello, Summer; Sunset Beach; The High Tide Club; The Weekenders; Beach Town; Save the Date; Ladies’ Night; Christmas Bliss; Spring Fever; Summer Rental; The Fixer Upper; Deep Dish; Blue Christmas; Savannah Breeze; Hissy Fit; Little Bitty Lies; and Savannah Blues), and one cookbook, The Beach House Cookbook.
A native of St. Petersburg, Florida, she earned a B.A. in journalism from The University of Georgia. After a 14-year career working as a reporter at newspapers including The Savannah Morning News, The Marietta Journal, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, where she spent the final ten years of her career, she left journalism in 1991 to write fiction.
Her first novel, Every Crooked Nanny, was published in 1992 by HarperCollins. She went on to write ten critically acclaimed mysteries under her real name, Kathy Hogan Trocheck. In 2002, she assumed the pen name Mary Kay Andrews with the publication of Savannah Blues. In 2006, Hissy Fit became her first New York Times bestseller, followed by twelve more New York Times, USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestsellers. To date, her novels have been published in German, Italian, Polish, Slovenian, Hungarian, Dutch, Czech and Japanese.
She and her family divide their time between Atlanta and Tybee Island, GA, where they cook up new recipes in two restored beach homes, The Breeze Inn and Ebbtide—both named after fictional places in Mary Kay’s novels, and both available to rent through Tybee Vacation Rentals. In between cooking, spoiling her grandkids, and plotting her next novel, Mary Kay is an intrepid treasure hunter whose favorite pastime is junking and fixing up old houses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 4, 2024
cute holiday short, Mary Kay always does a good job w holiday tales
October 2, 2024
─ 𝟑.𝟓 ★ 🐾🎄 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐮𝐧𝐧𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲.
ℋ𝑜𝓁𝒾𝒹𝒶𝓎 ℋ𝒾𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓌𝒶𝓎 by Mary Kay Andrews is a delightful and witty short story that I thoroughly enjoyed. What immediately drew me in was the cute little backstory between the two main characters—they share a history that made up for a sweet reunion, once they recognized each other from their past.
Adding to the charm of the story is the adorable dog named “Smoosh,” who steals the spotlight in many scenes, adding a playful and heartwarming element. The fact that the story is told from both the female and male main characters’ points of view makes it feel well-rounded, allowing us to connect with each of their perspectives.
The humor throughout is spot-on, especially in the text message exchanges between the two leads. These moments are sharp, funny, and add a modern touch to the romance. The witty banter between them kept me smiling, making this a light, feel-good read that’s perfect for the holiday season.
I only felt that the first 70% of the book was flowing very well, with a good pace, but then the author rushed it and I would’ve loved to get more of the backstory of the FMC and MMC during their school years and during the glee club, which is where they met.
Overall, Holiday Hideaway is a charming story that balances humor, romance, and a touch of nostalgia. Mary Kay Andrews packs a lot of heart into this short tale, making it a cute and quick escape.
Thanks to Netgalley, Amazon Short Stories and the author for the ARC! 🎄
ℋ𝑜𝓁𝒾𝒹𝒶𝓎 ℋ𝒾𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓌𝒶𝓎 by Mary Kay Andrews is a delightful and witty short story that I thoroughly enjoyed. What immediately drew me in was the cute little backstory between the two main characters—they share a history that made up for a sweet reunion, once they recognized each other from their past.
Adding to the charm of the story is the adorable dog named “Smoosh,” who steals the spotlight in many scenes, adding a playful and heartwarming element. The fact that the story is told from both the female and male main characters’ points of view makes it feel well-rounded, allowing us to connect with each of their perspectives.
The humor throughout is spot-on, especially in the text message exchanges between the two leads. These moments are sharp, funny, and add a modern touch to the romance. The witty banter between them kept me smiling, making this a light, feel-good read that’s perfect for the holiday season.
I only felt that the first 70% of the book was flowing very well, with a good pace, but then the author rushed it and I would’ve loved to get more of the backstory of the FMC and MMC during their school years and during the glee club, which is where they met.
Overall, Holiday Hideaway is a charming story that balances humor, romance, and a touch of nostalgia. Mary Kay Andrews packs a lot of heart into this short tale, making it a cute and quick escape.
Thanks to Netgalley, Amazon Short Stories and the author for the ARC! 🎄
October 1, 2024
I enjoyed this, it was very cute. The first 70% is a great pace and sets up for a potentially great story, then it just gets super rushed and ended. There wasn't much time for them to build a connection actually being together, I know it's a short story, but just a handful more pages could have really given them a better bond to make their interest in each other feel believable.
3.75 rounded up
3.75 rounded up
October 4, 2024
Holiday Hideaway is a holiday themed short story from Mary Kay Andrews. In this quick read we meet Tilly who is squatting in one of the rental properties she manages while she waits to move into her new apartment. The unexpected arrival of George, the grandnephew of the owner who has recently passed away, has her scrambling to figure out where to go.
I am a fan of this author’s past books including, The Santa Suit, and was super excited to get the chance to read an advanced copy of this short story. I was pulled into the story right away and although it was super-fast, I really enjoyed this book. It had all the holiday feels and cozy vibes you are looking for in a holiday romcom. This book publishes on October 29th and I recommend you pick it up for a little holiday cheer!
Thank you to Amazon Original Stories and NetGalley for the gifted digital ARC to review in exchange for my honest review.
I am a fan of this author’s past books including, The Santa Suit, and was super excited to get the chance to read an advanced copy of this short story. I was pulled into the story right away and although it was super-fast, I really enjoyed this book. It had all the holiday feels and cozy vibes you are looking for in a holiday romcom. This book publishes on October 29th and I recommend you pick it up for a little holiday cheer!
Thank you to Amazon Original Stories and NetGalley for the gifted digital ARC to review in exchange for my honest review.
October 4, 2024
Tilly is really down on her luck and with her apartment not ready for her yet, she is living in one of the rentals that her company has but no one is staying there. She is surprised by a vehicle driving up and escapes upstairs to the freezing attic!! George had recently inherited the house with some other family members and is there to get the house ready to sell.
Am unfortunate accident leaves Tilly needing to watch George and he realizes that he knows her from high school. He begins to think about his life in Boston and some changes might be coming!
Loved this cute book and recommend you get it on Oct 29!! I just want more time with these characters!!
Am unfortunate accident leaves Tilly needing to watch George and he realizes that he knows her from high school. He begins to think about his life in Boston and some changes might be coming!
Loved this cute book and recommend you get it on Oct 29!! I just want more time with these characters!!
October 3, 2024
Loved this short rom-com. MKA always gives me beach and Christmas feels. I would love to have a longer version of this story, but it was perfect for a lunch time read.
October 7, 2024
It's enjoyable but too short to be something more.
October 6, 2024
Thank you to Net Galley and Amazon Original Stories for providing me this copy of Holiday Hideaway.
Whenever October hits, I immediately go into holiday mode. Specifically, I get into the Christmas spirit very, very early. Therefore, this book was the perfect short story to get me in the mood for soup season and hot chocolate weather.
Tilly Farraday is in a housing predicament, having just gotten kicked out of her previous apartment due to her dog, Smoosh, and being broke after spending all her money on her new place which, by the way, she can't even move into until January?! So, for the time being, she's "squatting" in one of the vacant rental properties she helps manage. Too bad the original owner has died, and now his great-newphew, George, has shown up to "take care of the property." Now she to figure out what to do, since she can't afford to stay anywhere else, but she also can't let George know she's been staying at his great Uncle's property!
This story was short, cute, and definitely gave off Christmas vibes. The banter between Tilly and George had me LOL'ing, I loved the sarcasm. I wish we got a larger glimpse into their individual characters besides just the knowledge that they were choir mates in their high school glee club. Also, that it was longer, and that the conflict with Tilly's previous relationship, and George's current relationship before running into Tilly, was explored more. But I understand, this is a short story so the conflict resolution is obviously going to run its course pretty fast.
Holiday Hideaway is definitely a feel-good read. All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking to get in the holiday spirit, and just needs an overall cute and sweet story to read to get in the mood for Christmastime!
Whenever October hits, I immediately go into holiday mode. Specifically, I get into the Christmas spirit very, very early. Therefore, this book was the perfect short story to get me in the mood for soup season and hot chocolate weather.
Tilly Farraday is in a housing predicament, having just gotten kicked out of her previous apartment due to her dog, Smoosh, and being broke after spending all her money on her new place which, by the way, she can't even move into until January?! So, for the time being, she's "squatting" in one of the vacant rental properties she helps manage. Too bad the original owner has died, and now his great-newphew, George, has shown up to "take care of the property." Now she to figure out what to do, since she can't afford to stay anywhere else, but she also can't let George know she's been staying at his great Uncle's property!
This story was short, cute, and definitely gave off Christmas vibes. The banter between Tilly and George had me LOL'ing, I loved the sarcasm. I wish we got a larger glimpse into their individual characters besides just the knowledge that they were choir mates in their high school glee club. Also, that it was longer, and that the conflict with Tilly's previous relationship, and George's current relationship before running into Tilly, was explored more. But I understand, this is a short story so the conflict resolution is obviously going to run its course pretty fast.
Holiday Hideaway is definitely a feel-good read. All in all, I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking to get in the holiday spirit, and just needs an overall cute and sweet story to read to get in the mood for Christmastime!
October 7, 2024
Tilly is camping out at an empty rental property because she needs a place to stay until she can figure out where to live next. It was all OK, until the owner’s great-nephew, George, showed up to get the house ready to sell, since his Uncle had recently died. Tilly remains in the attic, unbeknownst to George. George starts noticing her movements, but Tilly assures George that it is just a ghost! Can Tilly find another place before George finds out?
A unique story with laugh-out-loud moments that turns into a heartwarming holiday read! I liked how there are relatable characters and a satisfying ending. The humor, the drama, and the entertainment definitely check all the boxes for a fun holiday read! A great book to add to your holiday TBR list!
Thanks to Amazon Original Stories, I was provided an ARC of Holiday Hideaway By Mary Kay Andrews via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A unique story with laugh-out-loud moments that turns into a heartwarming holiday read! I liked how there are relatable characters and a satisfying ending. The humor, the drama, and the entertainment definitely check all the boxes for a fun holiday read! A great book to add to your holiday TBR list!
Thanks to Amazon Original Stories, I was provided an ARC of Holiday Hideaway By Mary Kay Andrews via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2024
Such a good adult wholesome romance!
Expect no strings attached (no, not talking about spice here!). The main characters were involved with their respective partners. However, issues get resolved and communication well executed as adults are supposed to do so.
Such a short delightful story.
I love the dog so much!
The ending is perfect!
And that cover has my heart!
Thank you, Amazon Original Stories, for the ARC.
Expect no strings attached (no, not talking about spice here!). The main characters were involved with their respective partners. However, issues get resolved and communication well executed as adults are supposed to do so.
Such a short delightful story.
I love the dog so much!
The ending is perfect!
And that cover has my heart!
Thank you, Amazon Original Stories, for the ARC.
October 3, 2024
It's a little early for a Christmas story but I discovered this short read while I was in between books so I plunged in.
Typical MKA style. Easy to read and fun. Perhaps a little more humorous than usual. It’s predictable and enjoyable, maybe even a little corny. This story could go straight from print to a Hallmark Movie. Like a Hallmark movie, it's not over until they kiss! But, it's all in a good way.
It was a great diversion from other books. And, it made me smile.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
Typical MKA style. Easy to read and fun. Perhaps a little more humorous than usual. It’s predictable and enjoyable, maybe even a little corny. This story could go straight from print to a Hallmark Movie. Like a Hallmark movie, it's not over until they kiss! But, it's all in a good way.
It was a great diversion from other books. And, it made me smile.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
October 5, 2024
Thank you Amazon Original Stories and to NetGalley for this advance readers copy in exchange for my honest feedback. This is a cute little small town cat and mouse meet cute short story set during the holiday season. Beautiful short story for the upcoming holiday season!!
October 4, 2024
[arc review]
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Original Stories for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Holiday Hideaway release October 29, 2024
Tilly is squatting in one of the vacant vacation rental properties she manages as a rental agent for the month of December until her place is available in January, but is forced to hide out in the attic with her dog when a family member of the recently deceased owner unexpectedly shows up and decides to move in and renovate the place.
The plot was too outrageously over-the-top and far-fetched to take seriously. Setting aside all the missed opportunities to discreetly leave the house, the broken down car, and George’s fall off of the ladder, I can’t get over the fact that he didn’t care she was trespassing and in his attic the whole time all because they were in the same club in high school. How long would he have let her tiptoe around while pretending he had no idea she was there? The full two weeks?!
The romance in this is so dumb and unconvincing. Everything hinges on them both attending the same high school twenty years prior, and two days of being concussed/on meds and bed-ridden due to a broken ankle. A person can change a lot in twenty years…
I might have given this two stars if it wasn’t for the fact that Tilly jumped into George’s lap and started straddling him not even five minutes after he ended things with his fiancée who had just driven away from the property.
Flirting through text messages in a professional context while knowing the recipient is in a committed relationship is a no-go.
If you want a holiday read by this author that’s actually good, check out Bright Lights, Big Christmas.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Original Stories for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Holiday Hideaway release October 29, 2024
Tilly is squatting in one of the vacant vacation rental properties she manages as a rental agent for the month of December until her place is available in January, but is forced to hide out in the attic with her dog when a family member of the recently deceased owner unexpectedly shows up and decides to move in and renovate the place.
The plot was too outrageously over-the-top and far-fetched to take seriously. Setting aside all the missed opportunities to discreetly leave the house, the broken down car, and George’s fall off of the ladder, I can’t get over the fact that he didn’t care she was trespassing and in his attic the whole time all because they were in the same club in high school. How long would he have let her tiptoe around while pretending he had no idea she was there? The full two weeks?!
The romance in this is so dumb and unconvincing. Everything hinges on them both attending the same high school twenty years prior, and two days of being concussed/on meds and bed-ridden due to a broken ankle. A person can change a lot in twenty years…
I might have given this two stars if it wasn’t for the fact that Tilly jumped into George’s lap and started straddling him not even five minutes after he ended things with his fiancée who had just driven away from the property.
Flirting through text messages in a professional context while knowing the recipient is in a committed relationship is a no-go.
If you want a holiday read by this author that’s actually good, check out Bright Lights, Big Christmas.
October 7, 2024
3.5 Stars
One Liner: Cute!
Tilly Farriday (with her dog, Smoosh) has camped in one of the properties her company deals with. Being recently divorced, broke, and out of home doesn’t help with Christmas around the corner.
George Holloway wants nothing to do with the house inherited from a dead uncle. He arrives at the house to see what needs to be done to sell it. Moreover, George needs time away from his successful girlfriend, Vanessa, who is ready for a grand engagement.
Tilly becomes the hidden resident of the house as George plans to stay back for a few days. What kind of Christmas miracle can help them?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Tilly and George.
My Thoughts:
I’ve wanted to read the author’s works for a while, so this short story seemed like a good start. The main characters have some depth, which makes it easy to empathize with them.
The story is split into day-wise chapters, with some development occurring each day.
Since everything takes place in less than 50 pages and the initial setup takes around 35% of the book, the ending feels rushed.
It appears to be a standalone, but I won’t be surprised if there’s a series with the setting. If there isn’t, it's time to write one, author!
There is not much to say except that the story does what it should do. No romance as such, though. Just some banter. Squeaky clean.
To summarize, Holiday Hideaway is a short and cute story about two people becoming unexpected housemates, even if one of them doesn’t know of the other’s presence.
Thank you, NetGalley and Amazon Original Stories, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #HolidayHideaway
One Liner: Cute!
Tilly Farriday (with her dog, Smoosh) has camped in one of the properties her company deals with. Being recently divorced, broke, and out of home doesn’t help with Christmas around the corner.
George Holloway wants nothing to do with the house inherited from a dead uncle. He arrives at the house to see what needs to be done to sell it. Moreover, George needs time away from his successful girlfriend, Vanessa, who is ready for a grand engagement.
Tilly becomes the hidden resident of the house as George plans to stay back for a few days. What kind of Christmas miracle can help them?
The story comes in the third-person POV of Tilly and George.
My Thoughts:
I’ve wanted to read the author’s works for a while, so this short story seemed like a good start. The main characters have some depth, which makes it easy to empathize with them.
The story is split into day-wise chapters, with some development occurring each day.
Since everything takes place in less than 50 pages and the initial setup takes around 35% of the book, the ending feels rushed.
It appears to be a standalone, but I won’t be surprised if there’s a series with the setting. If there isn’t, it's time to write one, author!
There is not much to say except that the story does what it should do. No romance as such, though. Just some banter. Squeaky clean.
To summarize, Holiday Hideaway is a short and cute story about two people becoming unexpected housemates, even if one of them doesn’t know of the other’s presence.
Thank you, NetGalley and Amazon Original Stories, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #HolidayHideaway
October 4, 2024
Tilly, a vacation rental broker, finds herself squatting (or “exercising prudent property management responsibilities”) in one of her business’s unrentable weed-infested properties, a Victorian mansion called the Crowe’s Nest. It’s a temporary residency until she can properly move in January, with her adorable shelter dog Smoosh (the reason she lost her last lease). Unfortunately, the normally absent owner of the property, an irascible and horrible human being, has died and left his millions to a cat. His few descendants are left with the house they consider a decrepit money pit, and great-nephew George has been elected to get it in shape and sell it by Christmas. When George suddenly arrives, Tilly and Smoosh have to hide in the attic — but for how long?
Mary Kay Andrews knows how to write a delightful Christmas story. Last year her “Bright Lights, Big Christmas” book was about an urban Christmas tree farm. “Holiday Hideaway” is a short story, but it still has a big Christmas heart and the perfect sweet romance. An excellent choice to spend a few hours with when you find some holiday downtime. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Vanessa has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO It is Christmas, so the fake tree/real tree decision occurs.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
Mary Kay Andrews knows how to write a delightful Christmas story. Last year her “Bright Lights, Big Christmas” book was about an urban Christmas tree farm. “Holiday Hideaway” is a short story, but it still has a big Christmas heart and the perfect sweet romance. An excellent choice to spend a few hours with when you find some holiday downtime. 5 stars!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): YES Vanessa has green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): NO It is Christmas, so the fake tree/real tree decision occurs.
Thank you to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy!
October 2, 2024
I couldn't resist reading a short story from the prolific Mary Kay Andrews. Both of the protagonists in Holiday Hideaway are looking for a change. George comes to town at Christmas time to clear out his deceased granduncle's house and prepare it for sale, with the hope that he will miss the holiday party where his girlfriend is planning to announce their engagement. Tilly, the rental for this property, is broke after her ex-husband got everything in the divorce and has been hiding out there as she gathers enough money to move into a new place. Could it be that they have a connection from their high school days?
It's a fun, holiday-adjacent story that highlights the lives of the two strangers and propels them to a not unexpected ending. I enjoyed it, although lengthening it from a short story to a novella would have given the author--and the reader--more time to appreciate the characters and their stories.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the story.
It's a fun, holiday-adjacent story that highlights the lives of the two strangers and propels them to a not unexpected ending. I enjoyed it, although lengthening it from a short story to a novella would have given the author--and the reader--more time to appreciate the characters and their stories.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the story.
October 4, 2024
Tilly is divorced, and her new home won't be ready until the first of the year. She is broke, so she decides to stay in one of her rental agency’s properties. When she moved in, George Holloway is here to sell his granduncle’s house, so she is forced to move up to the attic. She leaves the food on the counter she had just brought in. It didn't take him long to figure out someone else was living there.
He decided to climb up on the roof to fix the leaks. His girlfriend told him not to do it because he was a klutz, and he needed to come home for her big party. Did he listen? NO!!! Of course, he is injured, so Tilly is helping him out. It is interesting to read, how they get along, and all that happens. Going pretty good, and George's girlfriend is being escorted by Tilly's ex-husband to the rental property. It is a fun read, and it went so smooth, it was done before I knew it, but of so satisfying.
I received an ARC by Amazon Original Stories through NetGalley.
He decided to climb up on the roof to fix the leaks. His girlfriend told him not to do it because he was a klutz, and he needed to come home for her big party. Did he listen? NO!!! Of course, he is injured, so Tilly is helping him out. It is interesting to read, how they get along, and all that happens. Going pretty good, and George's girlfriend is being escorted by Tilly's ex-husband to the rental property. It is a fun read, and it went so smooth, it was done before I knew it, but of so satisfying.
I received an ARC by Amazon Original Stories through NetGalley.
October 2, 2024
Thank you to May Kay Andrews, NetGalley and Amazon Orignal Stories for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was my first book by this author and I LOVED it! From the first page I was immediately in love with the slightly quirky FMC and wanted to learn more about what on earth she was doing squatting in a random house over the holidays!
The story moved at a great pace and despite it being a short story, all the details were well fleshed out to make it feel like a complete story - not too fast or slow, just the right amount of detail to answer all the questions that pop up along the way!
This short story would make a great addition to anyone's holiday reading TBR, it's light, heartwarming and at some points even funny! Highly recommend for this up coming holiday season!
I will be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future!
This was my first book by this author and I LOVED it! From the first page I was immediately in love with the slightly quirky FMC and wanted to learn more about what on earth she was doing squatting in a random house over the holidays!
The story moved at a great pace and despite it being a short story, all the details were well fleshed out to make it feel like a complete story - not too fast or slow, just the right amount of detail to answer all the questions that pop up along the way!
This short story would make a great addition to anyone's holiday reading TBR, it's light, heartwarming and at some points even funny! Highly recommend for this up coming holiday season!
I will be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future!
October 6, 2024
Tilly is between apartments and needs a place to stay, so she's decided to stay for a few weeks near Christmas at her company's derelict property. Realizing she could lose her job if they find out she's squatting, she's out of options, as she's newly divorced and broke. She think she has it all figured out, until the now-deceased owner's nephew George Holloway shows up to look over the house, as he and a few relatives have inherited it. Can Tilly and her pooch Smoosh be quiet enough to wait this out for 2 weeks, or will George figure out the missing food isn't due to a ghost in the house? A quick and funny short story from Mary Kay Andrews, sure to get you ready for warm fires and homemade cookies. Available as an Amazon original on 10/29/24. Thanks to Netgalley for an early read of this; all opinions are my own.
October 3, 2024
The synopsis for this short story made it seem like a delightful holiday romcom, but the only holiday spirit came in the form of two Christmas trees and a passing nod to the calendar. I have enjoyed many of the author’s novels and was disappointed in the superficial tone of the story, the stereotypical characters, and the rushed romance based on high school crushes of twenty years ago. In terms of seasonal literature, this is a pass.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 3, 2024
Tilly is broke. She's recently been divorced and lost everything in the divorce. Her apartment isn't available yet so she's squatting in a falling-apart mansion on the waterfront in Maine. Her company does vacation rentals and the place hasn't had a single rental in over a year. So no one will notice, right? Especially at the Christmas holidays. Well, except for the rich guy who just inherited it and decided that the timing was perfect to start renovations so that he and his cousins could sell it.
Tilly is hiding out in the cold attic with her elderly dog because she has no where else to go.
This is a very fun and sweet Christmas story. Anyone can read it and enjoy.
Tilly is hiding out in the cold attic with her elderly dog because she has no where else to go.
This is a very fun and sweet Christmas story. Anyone can read it and enjoy.
October 8, 2024
Holiday Hideaway is a charming holiday romance about a woman who is a newly singled thirty something whose unauthorized vacation rental turns into a game of hide and seek because the new owner shows up unexpectedly. This is the perfect short read for the Christmas season. The author wrote this well and it had all the Christmas feels. I loved the characters in this book but I especially loved Tilly. Overall this was an amazing short story that I loved so much and would recommend to any reader. Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher for this short story in exchange of my honest review of Holiday Hideaway by Mary Kay Andrews.
October 1, 2024
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Holiday Hideaway” is a short story by Mary Kay Andrews. In typical Andrews fashion, this is a cute little romance - with a different take on a meet-cute. Just because one knows how it’s going to end, doesn’t mean that the ride to get to the conclusion is a bad one. I found myself wondering, a few times, how things were going to happen and being surprised by the direction Ms. Andrews took - always a good sign. It was a quick, fast, and enjoyable read!
“Holiday Hideaway” is a short story by Mary Kay Andrews. In typical Andrews fashion, this is a cute little romance - with a different take on a meet-cute. Just because one knows how it’s going to end, doesn’t mean that the ride to get to the conclusion is a bad one. I found myself wondering, a few times, how things were going to happen and being surprised by the direction Ms. Andrews took - always a good sign. It was a quick, fast, and enjoyable read!
October 3, 2024
Holiday Hideaway was a really fun and romantic short read! I loved how the storyline went, it brought a smile to my face and happiness to my heart. I did feel that it ended rather abruptly though which was a little disappointing. I think Mary Kay Andrews really rushed the couples relationship in the end but perhaps she was only permitted to use so many words for it to be considered a short story. I’m not sure but it was very enjoyable to read and every once in a while it’s nice to get a good short story to pass the time. I’m giving this a 4 star rating.
October 8, 2024
Cute, definitely predictable and kind of "Christmas-ey". In the sense that does occur around Christmas. A nice quick read and MKA is always good with a holiday trope. I especially enjoyed the banter between the two main characters in their text messages. I felt like the first part of the book was us getting to know the characters and then them getting to know each other but then, BAM, it was over. Another chapter or two could have pushed up my rating by another star, oh and the dog, Smoosh, steals the show! Thanks so much to NetGalley and the author for the pleasure of reading an advanced copy of this holiday short story.
October 2, 2024
I absolutely adored this short story. Mary Kay Andrews is an icon and I loved every moment of this book. It’s unfortunately not a full length novel but it easily could be. I liked the main characters and their history together. I’d love to read more about them and how they would restore the historical home. There is so much potential but it was entertaining and has me excited about the upcoming Christmas season.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
October 3, 2024
Mary Kay Andrews always delivers! Holiday Hideaway, an Amazon short story, will be released on October 24, 2024. It’s a charming little rom-com perfect for the holiday season!
Smoosh is adorable, and I loved the moments he was mentioned in the story!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mary Kay Andrews and Amazon Original stories for advanced access to Hidden Hideaways in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date- Oct 29 2024
#HolidayHideaway #NetGalley
Smoosh is adorable, and I loved the moments he was mentioned in the story!
Thank you to NetGalley, Mary Kay Andrews and Amazon Original stories for advanced access to Hidden Hideaways in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date- Oct 29 2024
#HolidayHideaway #NetGalley
October 3, 2024
Holiday Hideaway is a delightfully delicious addition to Mary Kay Andrews portfolio. Tilly and her dog Smooch are occupying the wreck of an abandoned house that George has come to sell after the death of his grandfather. This is a short story that features a humorous reacquainting of two old high school friends during a difficult period for each. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this story from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.
October 7, 2024
I think Smoosh was my favorite part of this story solely because his name was Smoosh.
Pacing was okay for it being a short story, but it felt like we got to the 85% point and then it was like, "oh s**t, I need to wrap this up" so everything was rushed in the last few pages.
It also wasn't super holiday-ish. A quick nod to Christmas plans and some mention of snow, but not too cozy feeling beyond that.
Read this in about an hour, though, so wasn't a total time suck to be disappointed 😬
Pacing was okay for it being a short story, but it felt like we got to the 85% point and then it was like, "oh s**t, I need to wrap this up" so everything was rushed in the last few pages.
It also wasn't super holiday-ish. A quick nod to Christmas plans and some mention of snow, but not too cozy feeling beyond that.
Read this in about an hour, though, so wasn't a total time suck to be disappointed 😬
October 3, 2024
Holiday Hideaway is a delightful little short story to get you in the Christmas mood early; the queen of beach reads Mary Kay Andrews never disappoints! I only wish it had been longer, this is about a 30-40 page short story I’d guess, it can be read in an hour, I wish it had been a fully developed novel! I loved the characters it was so cute and charming!
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