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Icecapade
(Part of His For The Holidays Anthology)
On the eve of the new millennium, diamond thief Noel Snow seduced FBI special agent Robert Cuffe, then fled into the dawn. Now a successful novelist, Noel uses his capers as fodder for his books, and has modeled his hero's nemesis (and potential love interest) on Cuffe. Though he leaves Robert a drunken phone message every New Year's Eve, Noel hasn't seen or heard from him in a decade.
So he's thrilled when his former lover shows up at his upstate farm one Christmas Eve. Elation quickly turns to alarm when Robert accuses Noel of being responsible for a recent rash of diamond heists. Robert is all business and as cold as ice: it seems his only interest in Noel is to put him behind bars.
Innocent of the crimes, and still as attracted as ever to the oh-so-serious lawman, Noel plans a second seduction—providing he can stay out of jail long enough
On the eve of the new millennium, diamond thief Noel Snow seduced FBI special agent Robert Cuffe, then fled into the dawn. Now a successful novelist, Noel uses his capers as fodder for his books, and has modeled his hero's nemesis (and potential love interest) on Cuffe. Though he leaves Robert a drunken phone message every New Year's Eve, Noel hasn't seen or heard from him in a decade.
So he's thrilled when his former lover shows up at his upstate farm one Christmas Eve. Elation quickly turns to alarm when Robert accuses Noel of being responsible for a recent rash of diamond heists. Robert is all business and as cold as ice: it seems his only interest in Noel is to put him behind bars.
Innocent of the crimes, and still as attracted as ever to the oh-so-serious lawman, Noel plans a second seduction—providing he can stay out of jail long enough
92 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2010
15 people are currently reading
825 people want to read
About the author
Josh Lanyon
224 books5,420 followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
November 23, 2024
This was such a sweet and heartwarming Christmas novella. Josh Lanyon is one of the rare authors who can make me feel for characters in a story this short.
I really liked Noel and Robert. They have the same dynamics as Adrien and Jake, and it totally works for me. I liked their backstory, especially Noel's phone messages and books. I only wish we got to learn more about the first night they met. But everything in the present day was lovely, including the perfect setting, friendly neighbours and llamas!
Thank you for the recommendation, AngelFire! 😊
******
Re-read 11/2024: We are having the first snow this season, so this seemed appropriate. 😊
I really liked Noel and Robert. They have the same dynamics as Adrien and Jake, and it totally works for me. I liked their backstory, especially Noel's phone messages and books. I only wish we got to learn more about the first night they met. But everything in the present day was lovely, including the perfect setting, friendly neighbours and llamas!
Thank you for the recommendation, AngelFire! 😊
******
Re-read 11/2024: We are having the first snow this season, so this seemed appropriate. 😊
January 4, 2019
Posted at Shelf Inflicted and at Outlaw Reviews
I have a weakness for stories about lovers on opposite sides of the law. Noel Snow is a reformed diamond thief, now horse breeder and popular novelist who bases his main character on FBI agent Robert Cuffe, a man he seduced a decade earlier and abandoned on New Year’s Eve.
Other than the annual drunken phone messages from Noel, the men have not seen or spoken to each other until the surprise visit from Robert to investigate a rash of jewel thefts in New York City. Though Noel is apprehensive, there is no denying the attraction between the two men.
I loved how Noel’s books were his way of flirting with Robert, of apologizing. The time they spent together showed glimpses of each other’s lives, past and present, all interrupted by the constantly ringing doorbell at Noel’s farmhouse. There’s the guy delivering Noel’s Christmas tree, the neighbor who needed help with rescuing a llama, and the psychic woman whose greenhouse generator stopped working.
If you want to fill your heart with warmth and Christmas spirit, this tender and funny romance is the perfect story to cuddle up with.
I have a weakness for stories about lovers on opposite sides of the law. Noel Snow is a reformed diamond thief, now horse breeder and popular novelist who bases his main character on FBI agent Robert Cuffe, a man he seduced a decade earlier and abandoned on New Year’s Eve.
Other than the annual drunken phone messages from Noel, the men have not seen or spoken to each other until the surprise visit from Robert to investigate a rash of jewel thefts in New York City. Though Noel is apprehensive, there is no denying the attraction between the two men.
I loved how Noel’s books were his way of flirting with Robert, of apologizing. The time they spent together showed glimpses of each other’s lives, past and present, all interrupted by the constantly ringing doorbell at Noel’s farmhouse. There’s the guy delivering Noel’s Christmas tree, the neighbor who needed help with rescuing a llama, and the psychic woman whose greenhouse generator stopped working.
If you want to fill your heart with warmth and Christmas spirit, this tender and funny romance is the perfect story to cuddle up with.
October 10, 2014
3.5 stars.
Noel Snow is a retired cat burglar. He made a fortune by robbing filthy rich people. Noel was forced to retire, however, after On the bright side though, he accomplished a long time dream and bought a remote farm in the middle of nowhere where nobody knew him or his shady past. In fact, he is raising horses now and became an acclaimed author.
Noel is living a lonely life and the prospect of spending another Christmas on his own is not all that appealing anymore as it was a couple of years ago. He feels tired and indulges in somber thoughts.
Then suddenly out of the blue a man is knocking on his door. It's FBI special agent Robert Cuffe, a man with whom he'd been spending one night of passion about ten years ago. A man also who always wanted to put him behind bars once and for all. Funny thing is, Noel's fictional character, Richard Cross, has been inspired by his longstanding nemesis Cuffe. Noel always wanted to make amends but it seems that Cuffe has other purposes for making the long trip to his farm. Robert accuses him openly of being responsible for a recent diamond robbery. Will Noel be able to convince Robert that he is innocent? And will Noel have a chance at making amends and win over Robert's heart?
I'm a Lanyon fan since I read his critically acclaimed Adrian English series, and Icecapade is another entertaining short story that I recommend you to read if you like Lanyon's work in general or if you are on the lookout for a good yet short M/M read. Needless to say that I enjoyed it, although there is no getting round it to point out that I'm not quite happy about the fact that Noel has never been convicted for his wrongdoing. Well, I guess my sense of justice has been offended by Icecapade. Anyway, there is no need to mourn after something I cannot change though. I'm just glad, however, that Noel never physically hurt anyone and he never used a weapon either. Also, I was relieved that he didn't justify his illegal actions. Thanks for small favors.
I liked that Noel tried to apologize through his books and fictional characters. He never meant to hurt Robert after all, and at least he wanted to right a wrong. It's not much but still.
As always the ending is rather abrupt, which seems to be Lanyon's trademark, and even though I got used to it I just wish there was something…more. Very well-written from Noel's POV, Icecapade is a really good and enjoyable novella that provides a well-drawn and interesting character (Noel) and plenty of plot to keep my interest. In fact, it's quite intriguing how much Lanyon can pack into his shorts.
After a few seconds he became aware of Robert's lips moving almost soundlessly against his ear. "If you think the earth moved just now, imagine what'll happen when I f@ck you."
Noel Snow is a retired cat burglar. He made a fortune by robbing filthy rich people. Noel was forced to retire, however, after On the bright side though, he accomplished a long time dream and bought a remote farm in the middle of nowhere where nobody knew him or his shady past. In fact, he is raising horses now and became an acclaimed author.
Noel is living a lonely life and the prospect of spending another Christmas on his own is not all that appealing anymore as it was a couple of years ago. He feels tired and indulges in somber thoughts.
Then suddenly out of the blue a man is knocking on his door. It's FBI special agent Robert Cuffe, a man with whom he'd been spending one night of passion about ten years ago. A man also who always wanted to put him behind bars once and for all. Funny thing is, Noel's fictional character, Richard Cross, has been inspired by his longstanding nemesis Cuffe. Noel always wanted to make amends but it seems that Cuffe has other purposes for making the long trip to his farm. Robert accuses him openly of being responsible for a recent diamond robbery. Will Noel be able to convince Robert that he is innocent? And will Noel have a chance at making amends and win over Robert's heart?
There was wry humor in Robert's voice. "Did anyone ever tell you, you look like an angel?"
My mother. But Noel didn't want to remember. Had worked hard to forget.
"The first time I saw a photo of you," Robert said, "I thought, anyone who looks that innocent has to be wicked as hell. Then I thought, how can I get him to look at me like that?"
I'm a Lanyon fan since I read his critically acclaimed Adrian English series, and Icecapade is another entertaining short story that I recommend you to read if you like Lanyon's work in general or if you are on the lookout for a good yet short M/M read. Needless to say that I enjoyed it, although there is no getting round it to point out that I'm not quite happy about the fact that Noel has never been convicted for his wrongdoing. Well, I guess my sense of justice has been offended by Icecapade. Anyway, there is no need to mourn after something I cannot change though. I'm just glad, however, that Noel never physically hurt anyone and he never used a weapon either. Also, I was relieved that he didn't justify his illegal actions. Thanks for small favors.
"And you justify that…how?"
(…)
"No answer?" Robert prodded curiously.
Noel shrugged. "I'm not proud of being a thief. I'm proud I never hurt anyone--except maybe in their tender insurance policies."
I liked that Noel tried to apologize through his books and fictional characters. He never meant to hurt Robert after all, and at least he wanted to right a wrong. It's not much but still.
As always the ending is rather abrupt, which seems to be Lanyon's trademark, and even though I got used to it I just wish there was something…more. Very well-written from Noel's POV, Icecapade is a really good and enjoyable novella that provides a well-drawn and interesting character (Noel) and plenty of plot to keep my interest. In fact, it's quite intriguing how much Lanyon can pack into his shorts.
It was safe in the darkness.
They could hold each other and kiss and pretend that the tenderness was as invisible as the dark silhouettes of rocking chair and mirrored armoire and antique bird cage. It was there all the same.
"I swear I never meant to hurt you," Noel whispered as Robert's mouth trailed down his ribcage. "I'm sorry, Robbie."
March 21, 2025
Oh this was lovely.
Awesome writing, lots of chemistry, longing and feelings, I adored Noel and Robert's heartwarming story.
Awesome writing, lots of chemistry, longing and feelings, I adored Noel and Robert's heartwarming story.
December 2, 2018
Wow, this was a well-rounded and fascinating Christmas novella by the one and only Josh Lanyon.
Noel is breeding horses for a living. At least when he isn’t writing mystery novels that are becoming more and more popular. The funny thing is, the novels are based on his own past when he used to be a cat burglar / diamond thief, relieving the rich and famous of their sparkling treasures.
Similar to the characters in his book series, Noel too had an arch nemesis he fell for: FBI Special Agent Robert Cuffe. His infatuation for Cuffe even led to Noel seducing the man once on New Year’s Eve 1999 – which I consider one hell of a way to start into the new millennium.
10 years later and with all criminal ties long gone, Noel is surprised to find Cuffe on his horse ranch’s doorstep – intending to frame him for a recent diamond theft case.
This novella basically has Noel and Robert spending Christmas Eve together as a rather unlikely pairing. Their time together gets interrupted several times by neighbors in need of help and Noel and Robert assisting them to ensure a nice Christmas for everyone in that remote part of nowhere.
It’s very sweet and heartwarming and I absolutely loved the typical Adrien/Jake mold that Lanyon uses successfully for so many stories. Noel, the sophisticated yet unlucky writer/slash former thief and Robert, the brooding, taciturn agent who hides his feelings behind a stony facade at all times.
It’s all the more beautiful to see the walls eventually crumble between them.
I absolutely adored this little Christmas romance!
5 stars!
Noel is breeding horses for a living. At least when he isn’t writing mystery novels that are becoming more and more popular. The funny thing is, the novels are based on his own past when he used to be a cat burglar / diamond thief, relieving the rich and famous of their sparkling treasures.
Similar to the characters in his book series, Noel too had an arch nemesis he fell for: FBI Special Agent Robert Cuffe. His infatuation for Cuffe even led to Noel seducing the man once on New Year’s Eve 1999 – which I consider one hell of a way to start into the new millennium.
10 years later and with all criminal ties long gone, Noel is surprised to find Cuffe on his horse ranch’s doorstep – intending to frame him for a recent diamond theft case.
This novella basically has Noel and Robert spending Christmas Eve together as a rather unlikely pairing. Their time together gets interrupted several times by neighbors in need of help and Noel and Robert assisting them to ensure a nice Christmas for everyone in that remote part of nowhere.
It’s very sweet and heartwarming and I absolutely loved the typical Adrien/Jake mold that Lanyon uses successfully for so many stories. Noel, the sophisticated yet unlucky writer/slash former thief and Robert, the brooding, taciturn agent who hides his feelings behind a stony facade at all times.
It’s all the more beautiful to see the walls eventually crumble between them.
I absolutely adored this little Christmas romance!
5 stars!
December 4, 2013
Ten years ago, diamond thief Noel Snow had a wonderful one night with FBI special agent Robert Cuffe, after months of playing cat and mouse. Noel decided to leave in the morning though. After a bad fall that fractured his skull and permanently damaged his inner ear, Noel cannot do heights anymore. Though he already plans to quit his ill-gotten glory days, the fall firmly secure his resignation from the burglary job.
Noel then starts writing a very successful series, whose characters interestingly "imitate" himself and Cuffe. Not only that, over the past ten years, Noel makes it a habit to leave a phone call on New Year's Eve to Robert, as part of his attempt to apologize to the other man. Then, this Christmas, a knock on the door brings Robert Cuffe back into Noel's life.
Unfortunately, Robert accuses Noel of being responsible (the doer or the mastermind) for a series of recent jewel robberies. Despite of that, Noel is still attracted to Robert and he knows the agent feels at least the same way. Well, Noel decides that this Christmas, it will be a whole different outcome for the two of them.
----------------
AWWWWWWW .... this is probably the most romantic story from Josh Lanyon yet. I have practically read almost of his stories, and aside from The Dickens With Love and The French Has Name For It, this is probably one story that does not really involve murder or animosity against the two guys. Oh, sure, Robert claims to come to Noel's house this Christmas to question him about the robberies, but it is SO CLEAR that it's just an empty threat. I don't feel that coldness indifference or deep anger or hostility or someone acting like an ass-hat. There is NOTHING like that at all here. It's plain sweet and written in the perfect pace for the ending, when our heroes FINALLY make it together *sigh*.
A couple of scenes here just make me smile in delight or at one point, choked in surprise then grinning like an idiot ("After a few seconds he became aware of Robert’s lips moving almost soundlessly against his ear. “If you think the earth moved just now, imagine what’ll happen when I fuck you.”). Add a couple of fun secondary characters, including Noel's neighbor who breeds Llama(!) -- thanks Josh, I gather a new knowledge today that baby llama is called "cria" -- this story is captivating AND an absolute winner. One I will easily revisit for re-read.
I would give the story 4.5 stars but let's just say a scene involving a rescue attempt of baby llama pushes it to the perfect 5-star rating. Come on, how many times you encounter llama in romantic story?!? Dogs, cats, horses, sure -- at the last short story I read, a moose. But llama??! That baby llama needs the score of his own *grin*.
Noel then starts writing a very successful series, whose characters interestingly "imitate" himself and Cuffe. Not only that, over the past ten years, Noel makes it a habit to leave a phone call on New Year's Eve to Robert, as part of his attempt to apologize to the other man. Then, this Christmas, a knock on the door brings Robert Cuffe back into Noel's life.
Unfortunately, Robert accuses Noel of being responsible (the doer or the mastermind) for a series of recent jewel robberies. Despite of that, Noel is still attracted to Robert and he knows the agent feels at least the same way. Well, Noel decides that this Christmas, it will be a whole different outcome for the two of them.
----------------
AWWWWWWW .... this is probably the most romantic story from Josh Lanyon yet. I have practically read almost of his stories, and aside from The Dickens With Love and The French Has Name For It, this is probably one story that does not really involve murder or animosity against the two guys. Oh, sure, Robert claims to come to Noel's house this Christmas to question him about the robberies, but it is SO CLEAR that it's just an empty threat. I don't feel that coldness indifference or deep anger or hostility or someone acting like an ass-hat. There is NOTHING like that at all here. It's plain sweet and written in the perfect pace for the ending, when our heroes FINALLY make it together *sigh*.
A couple of scenes here just make me smile in delight or at one point, choked in surprise then grinning like an idiot ("After a few seconds he became aware of Robert’s lips moving almost soundlessly against his ear. “If you think the earth moved just now, imagine what’ll happen when I fuck you.”). Add a couple of fun secondary characters, including Noel's neighbor who breeds Llama(!) -- thanks Josh, I gather a new knowledge today that baby llama is called "cria" -- this story is captivating AND an absolute winner. One I will easily revisit for re-read.
I would give the story 4.5 stars but let's just say a scene involving a rescue attempt of baby llama pushes it to the perfect 5-star rating. Come on, how many times you encounter llama in romantic story?!? Dogs, cats, horses, sure -- at the last short story I read, a moose. But llama??! That baby llama needs the score of his own *grin*.
September 2, 2015
Diamond thief Noel spends the night with the FBI agent whose been hot on his tail for years. (See what I did there?) After their night together, Noel sneaks out of their shared hotel room and makes his getaway.
Noel goes straight (as in stops being a cat burglar) and becomes a writer. The FBI agent, Robert, shows up at Noel's horse farm just in time for Christmas to question him about a new string of jewel heists.
This is one of Josh Lanyon's short, sweet little romances. There's no mystery, just a quick read about two guys who've been separated by time and circumstance coming together again. Josh Lanyon has written this story before, he'll write it again, and I'll read it again. A very pleasant way to spend an hour.
Thanks to Mish and Sandra for the BR!
Noel goes straight (as in stops being a cat burglar) and becomes a writer. The FBI agent, Robert, shows up at Noel's horse farm just in time for Christmas to question him about a new string of jewel heists.
This is one of Josh Lanyon's short, sweet little romances. There's no mystery, just a quick read about two guys who've been separated by time and circumstance coming together again. Josh Lanyon has written this story before, he'll write it again, and I'll read it again. A very pleasant way to spend an hour.
Thanks to Mish and Sandra for the BR!
April 1, 2020
I needed an escapist read that was superbly written and this was perfect. The only qualms I have with it are that:
a) It's short.
b) It left me wanting a whole 1000+ page book on the exploits of diamond thief Noel and the stern faced fed who is after him, and ends up with him. swoons
c) It's set in Christmas. And I just hate Christmas.
a) It's short.
b) It left me wanting a whole 1000+ page book on the exploits of diamond thief Noel and the stern faced fed who is after him, and ends up with him. swoons
c) It's set in Christmas. And I just hate Christmas.
November 29, 2015
Written June 20, 2014
3 1/2 Stars - a sweet shortie novella that might have been a good story for many more pages
It's Midsummer Eve (summer solstice) here today. Not the warmest one but sunny and always a big festivity holiday in Sweden. To start to read an 63 pages icy Xmas & New Years Eve novella was maybe a bit strange choise. But it is an Josh Lanyon and I got it yesterday (se below about the bargain). I wake up early and just couldn't stop myself.
My odd winter-story choise was however ultimately successful. Icecapade was an enjoyable read and a great start to my day. As so often with short novellas is this just too short and I'd like to read twice as many book pages about these two men. It's sort of a bit too sudden and abrupt end.
***********************************************************
On the new millenium night (1999/2000) was the FBI Special Agent, Robert Cuffe seduced by the diamond thief Noel Snow. Every New Year's Eve leaves Noel a drunken phone message to the attractiv agent he can't forget.
~ Ten years later they meet again.
By now is Noel an successful crime author and the agent he still remember is his own book hero Nash Blue's nemesis (Detective Richard Cross) and maybe to be lover. ~ The seventh book in the series has just been published and it's the days before Christmas Day, a few hours drive outside New York City. Noel has horses, friendly neighbors and a very good, honest "smith-life" in the country nowadays. Then it knocks on the door...
***********************************************************
A 'Lanyon' is a 'Lanyon' and always an enjoying read.
Icecapade is maybe not the best story I read from this author but really good enough. It has a interesting second chance topic that could've been a longer novel but I'm glad over what I just got any way. There is not any crime drama here (as next to always in other JL stories), but it is emotional, fun, steamy and there are two very manly men we meet. I like them.
This kind of chafing, rough, unshaven, slightly insecure and a bit aging heroes are so nice to meet. I need to meet their kind at least once a week.
I round up to a weak 4 rating. It is, after all, Midsummer Eve (a generous day) and this is nevertheless a sweet well written JL story.
I LIKE - nice cozy second chance reading
********************
See the anthology for a nice $1 price:
3 1/2 Stars - a sweet shortie novella that might have been a good story for many more pages
It's Midsummer Eve (summer solstice) here today. Not the warmest one but sunny and always a big festivity holiday in Sweden. To start to read an 63 pages icy Xmas & New Years Eve novella was maybe a bit strange choise. But it is an Josh Lanyon and I got it yesterday (se below about the bargain). I wake up early and just couldn't stop myself.
My odd winter-story choise was however ultimately successful. Icecapade was an enjoyable read and a great start to my day. As so often with short novellas is this just too short and I'd like to read twice as many book pages about these two men. It's sort of a bit too sudden and abrupt end.
***********************************************************
On the new millenium night (1999/2000) was the FBI Special Agent, Robert Cuffe seduced by the diamond thief Noel Snow. Every New Year's Eve leaves Noel a drunken phone message to the attractiv agent he can't forget.
~ Ten years later they meet again.
By now is Noel an successful crime author and the agent he still remember is his own book hero Nash Blue's nemesis (Detective Richard Cross) and maybe to be lover. ~ The seventh book in the series has just been published and it's the days before Christmas Day, a few hours drive outside New York City. Noel has horses, friendly neighbors and a very good, honest "smith-life" in the country nowadays. Then it knocks on the door...
‘His black eyes held a grim gleam of satisfaction at Noel's obvious shock.
Noel practially stuttered, “It's...you.”
“You mean you can still recognize the orginal? I'm surprised.” Cuffe's voice was deep, his tone crisp. It had softened considerably in Noel's memory.
***********************************************************
A 'Lanyon' is a 'Lanyon' and always an enjoying read.
Icecapade is maybe not the best story I read from this author but really good enough. It has a interesting second chance topic that could've been a longer novel but I'm glad over what I just got any way. There is not any crime drama here (as next to always in other JL stories), but it is emotional, fun, steamy and there are two very manly men we meet. I like them.
This kind of chafing, rough, unshaven, slightly insecure and a bit aging heroes are so nice to meet. I need to meet their kind at least once a week.
I round up to a weak 4 rating. It is, after all, Midsummer Eve (a generous day) and this is nevertheless a sweet well written JL story.
I LIKE - nice cozy second chance reading
********************
See the anthology for a nice $1 price:
April 10, 2023
This was pretty awesome! Thank you Snjez for bringing it to my attention!
A lovely Christmas story with a retired cat burglar and his nemesis fbi agent.
“Occasionally, rarely, he’d let himself fantasize this moment.”
““The first time I saw a photo of you,” Robert said, “I thought, anyone who looks that innocent has to be wicked as hell. Then I thought, how can I get him to look at me like that?”
Noel huffed a laugh and opened his eyes. “The first time I saw you, I thought, I could love that guy.””
A lovely Christmas story with a retired cat burglar and his nemesis fbi agent.
“Occasionally, rarely, he’d let himself fantasize this moment.”
““The first time I saw a photo of you,” Robert said, “I thought, anyone who looks that innocent has to be wicked as hell. Then I thought, how can I get him to look at me like that?”
Noel huffed a laugh and opened his eyes. “The first time I saw you, I thought, I could love that guy.””
December 19, 2016
Loved it. I think this was perhaps my first Josh Lanyon book .... and I was later surprised to learn that Josh also wrote books about detectives and murder!
August 17, 2016
Good GODS! I have missed you, Josh Lanyon.
Lanyon words, characters, and worlds always find a warm corner of my heart to settle in. The man somehow-- so quietly-- sneaks right in and steals my smiles, laughs, and heart. His scenes and locations always feel so real and alive to me. The way he can ground a story in a place with smells, textures, colors, and more never fails to blow me away! I loved every word of this little Christmas gem.
”Noel reached out and they linked hands, laced fingers. Noel liked the strength that met his own, the fierce grip that held him—no chance of falling with a grip like that.”
Come….drop by this supposedly quiet, secluded farm house and stables stamped with Lanyon’s trademark banter, mystery, and swirl of sexy, sweet, zany charm!
Icecapade is a must read for any and all Lanyon fans.
Favorite Lanyon word: craggy
p.s.
Read
January 23, 2015DNF at 50%
Don't feel it, don't like it.
It's this kind of book you can't remember what it was about a few days after you finished it. I have already forgot the first half of the book while writing these sentences.
Though I can imagine, with the right narrator it could be not bad as an audio book. If I'll give it one more chance, then as an audio version.
Don't feel it, don't like it.
It's this kind of book you can't remember what it was about a few days after you finished it. I have already forgot the first half of the book while writing these sentences.
Though I can imagine, with the right narrator it could be not bad as an audio book. If I'll give it one more chance, then as an audio version.
November 30, 2023
Really sweet. I love how it only takes a few pages for JL to make me so invested in the characters. Great book for a Lanyon fix ;)
April 8, 2023
Rating: 3.5 Stars (rounded up)
This was a very sweet second chance Christmas story! It was perfect for its length with the author doing a great job of establishing the characters, their pre-existing relationship and adding enough plot to make the second chance romance interesting.
I really felt for both of these characters and I loved their dynamic. These two guys should be enemies on paper but ironically, they end up being each other's longest and most meaningful relationship that they've ever had. Both of them spent most of their lives being workaholics (Noel a thief and Robert the FBI agent trying to catch him) so they haven't formed meaningful romantic relationships in their own lives. Since they both spent so much of their time fixated on the other person, they end up knowing each other better than anybody else in their lives and they end up genuinely caring about each other, despite being on opposites sides of the law.
Noel worked hard after being forced to retire for medical reasons and he's created a life he's more or less happy with, despite being a bit lonely. But it's Robert who I really felt for because once his parents pass away and Robert quits the FBI and finally leaves his homophobic colleagues behind, he realizes the only relationship he has left is Noel, which leaves him conflicted. I love that Noel immediately recognized Robert's loneliness and his feelings for Robert make him instantly want to take care of him and finally have the relationship he's always wanted for them.
That being said, the story is full of plot conveniences and there are many unrealistic plot beats that I chose to just ignore because everything else was enjoyable. The biggest plot convenience was having Noel be a 'Robin Hood' type of thief who only steals from the rich, never uses violence and has never hurt anybody except the evil insurance companies. Was this a bit ridiculous? Sure, but it's the only way to make their feelings for each other believable within such a short story.
In addition, the MCs switch from being reunited frenemies to falling into bed was a little fast and unrealistic but again - the length of the story didn't leave the author with any other choice. And the whole thing with Noel's book writing was too unbelievable for me to devote much thought to it. No, it's not remotely believable that all of Robert's FBI colleagues would clue into the fact that a random mystery writer's characters are based on Robert and Noel. It also didn't make sense to me that Noel thought his books were a respectful homage to Robert, but he also admits that he depicted the fictional FBI agent as a fumbling idiot throughout the majority of the series and only made him win at the very end. None of that made sense so I just ignored the whole novel thing.
Overall, I thought this was a really sweet Christmas second chance romance and I would have loved to read a full length version of it. I would have given it 4 stars but the author's tendency to not use dialog tags and use way too many paragraph breaks made the reading confusing at times so I knocked the rating down to 3.5 stars.
This was a very sweet second chance Christmas story! It was perfect for its length with the author doing a great job of establishing the characters, their pre-existing relationship and adding enough plot to make the second chance romance interesting.
I really felt for both of these characters and I loved their dynamic. These two guys should be enemies on paper but ironically, they end up being each other's longest and most meaningful relationship that they've ever had. Both of them spent most of their lives being workaholics (Noel a thief and Robert the FBI agent trying to catch him) so they haven't formed meaningful romantic relationships in their own lives. Since they both spent so much of their time fixated on the other person, they end up knowing each other better than anybody else in their lives and they end up genuinely caring about each other, despite being on opposites sides of the law.
Noel worked hard after being forced to retire for medical reasons and he's created a life he's more or less happy with, despite being a bit lonely. But it's Robert who I really felt for because once his parents pass away and Robert quits the FBI and finally leaves his homophobic colleagues behind, he realizes the only relationship he has left is Noel, which leaves him conflicted. I love that Noel immediately recognized Robert's loneliness and his feelings for Robert make him instantly want to take care of him and finally have the relationship he's always wanted for them.
That being said, the story is full of plot conveniences and there are many unrealistic plot beats that I chose to just ignore because everything else was enjoyable. The biggest plot convenience was having Noel be a 'Robin Hood' type of thief who only steals from the rich, never uses violence and has never hurt anybody except the evil insurance companies. Was this a bit ridiculous? Sure, but it's the only way to make their feelings for each other believable within such a short story.
In addition, the MCs switch from being reunited frenemies to falling into bed was a little fast and unrealistic but again - the length of the story didn't leave the author with any other choice. And the whole thing with Noel's book writing was too unbelievable for me to devote much thought to it. No, it's not remotely believable that all of Robert's FBI colleagues would clue into the fact that a random mystery writer's characters are based on Robert and Noel. It also didn't make sense to me that Noel thought his books were a respectful homage to Robert, but he also admits that he depicted the fictional FBI agent as a fumbling idiot throughout the majority of the series and only made him win at the very end. None of that made sense so I just ignored the whole novel thing.
Overall, I thought this was a really sweet Christmas second chance romance and I would have loved to read a full length version of it. I would have given it 4 stars but the author's tendency to not use dialog tags and use way too many paragraph breaks made the reading confusing at times so I knocked the rating down to 3.5 stars.
February 23, 2011
4 1/2 stars (rounded up to 5 stars because I loved Noel)
I rarely give short stories 5 stars because I always feel there's something missing in them, but this one... Wow, I loved it!
FBI Special Agent Robert Cuffe and diamond thief Noel Snow have been playing cat and mouse for two years with Noel coming out the winner every time, but Robert finally catches the elusive cat burglar - or so he thinks. It's the eve of the new millennium, and their cat and mouse game reaches a new level when they end up sleeping together. Noel flees at dawn, taking his last "acquisition" (a 33-carat diamond ring) with him and leaving Robert to try and explain to his superiors how the hell he let Noel escape.
Fast forward ten years... Noel is no longer in the business of "relieving rich people from their jewelry", but he's never fogotten Robert and has often wondered whether they could have become more than one night lovers if the circumstances of their meeting had been different. Now a successful novelist, Noel uses his experience as a cat burgler to write his books, having modeled his hero on himself and his hero's nemesis (and potential love interest) on Robert. When Robert shows up at his door unexpectedly on Christmas Eve, Noel can't help being thrilled to see him after such a long time - until Robert says he's there to question Noel in connection with a series of jewel robberies occurring in New York City over the past three months. Noel says he has nothing to do with it, but Robert keeps pushing him. As the tension between them builds up, Noel feels there might be something else behind Robert's sudden visit. Has the time come to end their cat and mouse game?
I wish all short stories were like this. I adored Noel and Robert, the sexual tension between them was masterfully built and their HEA made me sigh like a ninny. This book was written in third person POV, but we only "see" what's in Noel's mind (and heart) and we never get Robert's POV. I was pleasantly surprised to see how well that worked, considering I'm not a fan of first-person narratives exactly because I feel there's something missing when I can't "read" all the characters' mind. In this story, not being privy to Robert's thoughts and feelings was essential - and that's all I can say without giving too much plot away.
This was my first read by Mr. Lanyon, but it won't be my last! I really enjoyed his writing style and I think he's made a great job depicting Noel and Robert. The only "complaint" I have is the absence of an epilogue. I had no doubts about Noel and Robert's HEA and liked the ending, but it left one loose end that could have been settled in a nice epilogue. All in all, that was only a minor issue and it was nowhere close to ruining this excellent read.
Note: This story is also available in His For The Holidays anthology.
I rarely give short stories 5 stars because I always feel there's something missing in them, but this one... Wow, I loved it!
FBI Special Agent Robert Cuffe and diamond thief Noel Snow have been playing cat and mouse for two years with Noel coming out the winner every time, but Robert finally catches the elusive cat burglar - or so he thinks. It's the eve of the new millennium, and their cat and mouse game reaches a new level when they end up sleeping together. Noel flees at dawn, taking his last "acquisition" (a 33-carat diamond ring) with him and leaving Robert to try and explain to his superiors how the hell he let Noel escape.
Fast forward ten years... Noel is no longer in the business of "relieving rich people from their jewelry", but he's never fogotten Robert and has often wondered whether they could have become more than one night lovers if the circumstances of their meeting had been different. Now a successful novelist, Noel uses his experience as a cat burgler to write his books, having modeled his hero on himself and his hero's nemesis (and potential love interest) on Robert. When Robert shows up at his door unexpectedly on Christmas Eve, Noel can't help being thrilled to see him after such a long time - until Robert says he's there to question Noel in connection with a series of jewel robberies occurring in New York City over the past three months. Noel says he has nothing to do with it, but Robert keeps pushing him. As the tension between them builds up, Noel feels there might be something else behind Robert's sudden visit. Has the time come to end their cat and mouse game?
I wish all short stories were like this. I adored Noel and Robert, the sexual tension between them was masterfully built and their HEA made me sigh like a ninny. This book was written in third person POV, but we only "see" what's in Noel's mind (and heart) and we never get Robert's POV. I was pleasantly surprised to see how well that worked, considering I'm not a fan of first-person narratives exactly because I feel there's something missing when I can't "read" all the characters' mind. In this story, not being privy to Robert's thoughts and feelings was essential - and that's all I can say without giving too much plot away.
This was my first read by Mr. Lanyon, but it won't be my last! I really enjoyed his writing style and I think he's made a great job depicting Noel and Robert. The only "complaint" I have is the absence of an epilogue. I had no doubts about Noel and Robert's HEA and liked the ending, but it left one loose end that could have been settled in a nice epilogue. All in all, that was only a minor issue and it was nowhere close to ruining this excellent read.
Note: This story is also available in His For The Holidays anthology.
December 17, 2016
This was a wonderful little romance story.
Again Josh Lanyon brought me characters I fell in love with.
For a spot on review read Ami She says it all perfectly.
ETA Happy Sigh
Again Josh Lanyon brought me characters I fell in love with.
For a spot on review read Ami She says it all perfectly.
ETA Happy Sigh
December 19, 2016
3.5 Stars
Noel Snow was once a skilled diamond thief, playing a game of cat and mouse with FBI agent Robert Cuffe. After an explosive night together, Noel sneaks out of his hotel room, leaving a sleeping and unsuspecting Robert behind, and slips away into the night with another stolen diamond.
A few years later, Noel goes straight and begins living a simple life, raising horses and writing successful crime stories (featuring a cat burglar and his FBI nemesis). Every New Year's Eve he calls Robert and leaves a message, one full of apology and longing, and which Robert never returns.
Then, one Christmas Eve, ten years after their initial night together, Robert shows up on Noel's doorstep to question him about a new string of diamond heists that have Noel's MO.
This was short and sweet, with little drama and a hopeful HFN ending. I really enjoyed the premise, too. Noel and Robert had a bit of a star-crossed lovers thing going on and I liked it. It's a shame it was so short, but I'll take what I can get from the always reliable Lanyon.
Noel Snow was once a skilled diamond thief, playing a game of cat and mouse with FBI agent Robert Cuffe. After an explosive night together, Noel sneaks out of his hotel room, leaving a sleeping and unsuspecting Robert behind, and slips away into the night with another stolen diamond.
A few years later, Noel goes straight and begins living a simple life, raising horses and writing successful crime stories (featuring a cat burglar and his FBI nemesis). Every New Year's Eve he calls Robert and leaves a message, one full of apology and longing, and which Robert never returns.
Then, one Christmas Eve, ten years after their initial night together, Robert shows up on Noel's doorstep to question him about a new string of diamond heists that have Noel's MO.
This was short and sweet, with little drama and a hopeful HFN ending. I really enjoyed the premise, too. Noel and Robert had a bit of a star-crossed lovers thing going on and I liked it. It's a shame it was so short, but I'll take what I can get from the always reliable Lanyon.
December 2, 2018
- - This captivating tale is about two very different men, one on the right side of the law and one who used to be on the wrong side. - - Slender Noel was a thief of expensive art and jewelry, and has worked hard to turn his life around and is legit now, as an author and horse breeder. Big, rough, Special Agent Robert is an investigator who has turned up on Noel's doorstep to question him. Years ago they had a good one night stand that rocked both their socks off and Robert severed contact. Now, Robert wants to see if their connection is still there, but uses a ruse of questioning Noel about some robberies. The quirky neighbors of Noel's come into play, the guys are talking, but Noel is skeptical. When the ruse comes to light, the guys seriously talk about the reconnection possibilities. Fascinating short story that will keep you intrigued. Great reuniting sex, an interesting tale, and terrific characters make this story a wonderful read !
ENJOY !!!
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ENJOY !!!
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October 23, 2017
4.25 stars. I saw this book pop up on my feed and someone got it into my head that this was a new release. It's not, but it's definitely new for me. :)
There are not many authors that can pack a lot of history and story into a short work, but Lanyon can. This short story was a fun and saucy read. As always, I wish this author's shorts stories were turned into full-length novels--but only because I always feel bereft when the story ends.
If you like Lanyon's style, you'll like this book. Recommended.
There are not many authors that can pack a lot of history and story into a short work, but Lanyon can. This short story was a fun and saucy read. As always, I wish this author's shorts stories were turned into full-length novels--but only because I always feel bereft when the story ends.
If you like Lanyon's style, you'll like this book. Recommended.
December 29, 2017
Yep, this was a sweet short story. Laynon does not disappoint with this one. I smiled, winced and had a few heart twisting moments. There are no "I love you's" on page, but they are implied. :)
If you are looking for a GOOD short read, this is it. And there is a baby llama!! Aww.
If you are looking for a GOOD short read, this is it. And there is a baby llama!! Aww.
June 22, 2014
I quite liked this one. Sweeter and more tender than I expected, with some really lush prose.
March 6, 2014
Rating: 3.5 stars
Not much drama...okay, maybe a little. Some history between an ex-cat burglar and FBI agent. A llama, a psychic neighbor, and Christmas! So yeah, pick this up if you're looking for a quick goodie.
Not much drama...okay, maybe a little. Some history between an ex-cat burglar and FBI agent. A llama, a psychic neighbor, and Christmas! So yeah, pick this up if you're looking for a quick goodie.
May 30, 2014
Yup, loved this one too.
December 27, 2018
Fun and cute. This one worked quite well for me, I'm not sure why because I'm sure I would have been rolling my eyes if this book was by another author. But it worked and I enjoyed it. It's a lovely Christmas story.
June 23, 2014
Exactly what I needed, a good little short to continue with a smile on my face.
September 28, 2013
This is another Josh Lanyon that everyone loved but I didn't. At this stage I'm used to being the odd one out when it comes to the author. Some of his stories I have loved, and I will admit he is a very talented author. Maybe it's just me? But for some reason I don't have the same love for his books as the majority of people on Goodreads.
There were a couple of things I liked. The couple didn't make me feel a whole lot, but they were nice together... eventually. The whole thing with Noel's... injury was well handled. The ending, though, was like a lot of Lanyon's books, abrupt. Normally I'm not over picky about that if I feel like the book has a HEA. Here, I felt like it was a sort of HFN. With a small bit of hope. Though that's not a bad thing, I felt let down by the ending here. Ex's reuniting normally needs a slightly more solid ending for me to really connect.
I would recommend the book to all Lanyon fans. This is what you expect from his books. And I think his fans will love that.
There were a couple of things I liked. The couple didn't make me feel a whole lot, but they were nice together... eventually. The whole thing with Noel's... injury was well handled. The ending, though, was like a lot of Lanyon's books, abrupt. Normally I'm not over picky about that if I feel like the book has a HEA. Here, I felt like it was a sort of HFN. With a small bit of hope. Though that's not a bad thing, I felt let down by the ending here. Ex's reuniting normally needs a slightly more solid ending for me to really connect.
I would recommend the book to all Lanyon fans. This is what you expect from his books. And I think his fans will love that.
December 26, 2015
The blurb on this one is a bit misleading, but DAYM do I love this Christmas short.
I originally read Icecapade as part of the His For The Holidays anthology last December, and remembered really liking it.
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
And if Noel, former cat burglar, isn't enough. There are also llamas.
I originally read Icecapade as part of the His For The Holidays anthology last December, and remembered really liking it.
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥ Noel Snow ♥
And if Noel, former cat burglar, isn't enough. There are also llamas.
March 21, 2013
Another little gem masterful written by Josh Lanyon. It's a gorgeous short story about an ex-cat burglar and a FBI agent. The interactions between the characters are cute and tender. I love the pace of the story, it's sweet, funny and enjoyable. Perfect for a comfort read.
May 16, 2012
This story just goes to show that sometimes a short story doesn't have to feel short!
Although the story is told in about a 24h timeframe it is really a 10 yr love story in the making!
I really liked it!
Although the story is told in about a 24h timeframe it is really a 10 yr love story in the making!
I really liked it!
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