Iced

I loved how Austin isn't one to try to cause trouble for Keith but when trouble happens he's there to give support and care. They move from acceptance to friend, to rescuing, and the more.

3.5 Stars ~ There was something in the description for 'Iced', or maybe just the picture of Keith I got from reading it, that made me want to delve into this addition to Dreamspinner Press's 2016 Advent Calendar. I could feel the despondency dragging Keith down and since I think I've been in that position a few times in my early thirties, well I just wanted to read about someone who got free and had a happy ending.

Keith is not having a good life and his oh so crappy boyfriend, Shawn, needs to be stabbed. Okay, that might have been my overprotectiveness coming through, but I despise seeing someone get disparaged constantly by the person who is supposed to love them. Keith seems to be in a rut and I was hoping that Austin might be the one to help him get out of it.

I would be a total Scrooge "Bah Humbug" too if I worked in retail at the mall over Christmas. I can't even begin to imagine how horrific that would be and then to have to go home to a failing relationship? Keith really deserves all the kindness and love he can get. So when he makes a sacrifice for Shawn in hopes of salvaging their relationship, and then comes home to find Shawn screwing someone else on their couch, well, that just feels like the end to Keith. Luckily he has made a good friend in Austin and has someone to turn to for help.

'Iced' is an enjoyable, sweet read that definitely showcases some of the worst things that can happen during the holiday season but also some of the best.

NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews

Kieth works in a bookstore. One night when getting off of work he found his car with a flat and frozen on the road. Austin, one of his customers and a Barista in the neighborhood helps him get his car out. To repay him for his kindness he invites him over for dinner. Shawn, his boyfriend, has his friend over for dinner. Austin doesn't like Shawn and the way he treats Kevin but keeps his mouth shut. Then one night Keith dials Austin by mistake, and it changes their lives.

Iced is a very well written short story. You get the full story in a short amount of time. I loved both Kieth and Austin. There is tension, drama and romance.
If you like bookstore workers, baristas, and an allover sweet romance this is for you.