My Thoughts:
I didn’t pick the novella Home for the Holidays up when it was part of the anthology, The Bite Before Christmas. I preordered the Kindle ebook when I heard that it was being published on its own, and I’m really glad that I didn’t wait very long to start reading it after it showing up on my Kindle. This medium sized novella felt like a full sized novel, and I really enjoyed immersing myself in the Night Huntress world again.
Cat is preparing a surprise birthday party for Bones right before Thanksgiving, and everyone is coming into town to celebrate: Ian, Annette, Spade and Denise, and Mencheres and Kira. When Annette fails to appear at the actual party, Ian volunteers to go to her hotel room and drag her to Cat and Bones’ house. But once he arrives, he immediately calls for help because Annette has been brutalized and doesn’t know who her attacker is.
Everyone is on the defensive when a stranger shows up claiming an unexpected connection to Bones, and Cat has even more reason to be suspicious when everyone starts behaving strangely–everyone except for herself and Ian. Cat and Ian are forced to team up to solve the mystery of what has come over these strong master vampires and their mates before it’s too late.
Home for the Holidays read like a fully developed novel with a complete story arc and strong, even pacing. It didn’t seem rushed and the plot kept me interested as I was completely engaged in Cat and Ian’s odd working relationship. The Cat and Bones moments were steamy, romantic, funny, and highly enjoyable, but I really loved every word written of Cat and Ian. I certainly would buy a book featuring Ian and his cocky and sarcastic self!
I give this novella a five out of five. It’s the perfect story to get you in the holiday mood, with a bit of Cat and Ian kick some ass to set the mood and tide you over as you wait for the final book in the Night Huntress Series.
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Novellas can be hit or miss but this one sounds good! Love when you get a fully developed novel within a wee novella.
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I love these anthologies for around the holiday..they get me in the mood and thought this was a winner too!
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I ADORED this novella. I couldn’t wait, so I borrowed the anthology from my library quite a few months ago. You’re right – the working relationship between Ian and Cat was the best part. When they’re not trying to kill each other, they work surprisingly well together. And, it seems that even Ian is starting to gain a heart. They might be hope for him yet. 🙂 Great review, Heather!
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