SECRET GUNKLE by Andrew Grey

Fiction, Contemporary Holiday Romance, LGBTQ, 78 pages

4****

Blurb: Veterinary student Dutton Glenroth isn’t on speaking terms with his sister, Mary, but he isn’t about to let his niece and nephew suffer because of it. He knows they have very little, so for the holidays, he makes up a basket of gifts for them and leaves it outside their door.   But the kids are getting older, and this year Dutton finds it difficult to pick out their gifts. When he asks for help at Foster’s Toys, he runs into Randy Grant, his high school crush, who even volunteers to wrap and deliver the gifts with Dutton. Suddenly Dutton’s normally lonely holiday has a spark of Christmas cheer. Will this be the year he gets the holiday he’s always longed for?

Thoughts: This was a cute short novella centered around Christmas. Dutton is a sweet character who helps out at a veterinary office and shelter. He’s always been a shy type and when Randy, his high school crush, comes into his life, he’s not sure why such a hunk would be bothering with him. But Randy has always liked quiet Dutton. The two get together and turn Dutton’s lonely holiday into one he’ll always remember. 

The only thing I wish? That this had been a longer story so that something got resolved with Dutton’s sister. But that’s a minor issue. The romance was sweet, and gave you a feel-good ending that satisfied.

Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”