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Christmas with the Yared Sheikhs #1
The Sheikh's Christmas Fling
It’s the Christmas season in the tiny Kingdom of Maatkare, and the royal family needs a chef. Desperate to prove herself after her first restaurant failed, Ana Rizzo jumps at this chance for redemption and nabs the high-paying, short-term job. The opportunity couldn’t be more perfect. Ana will be able to stretch her culinary skills, earn enough money to open another restaurant, and still be able to give her adopted daughter the attention she needs. Her biggest challenge will be winning over the family’s elderly cook and getting Noel Yared, the middle son, to give her food his stamp of approval. She only cares about Noel’s palate, not his soulful brown eyes, his gorgeous runner’s body, and his amazing kisses. An avid runner herself, Ana pushes herself to keep up with Noel during their daily runs. But she’s finding the biggest challenge is resisting Noel’s charm.
Noel finds Ana endlessly fascinating and incredibly sexy. With a bit of charming persuasion from him, the two begin what they both know is a short-term affair. No rules, no heartache, just great sex and a bit of fun. So when he believes Ana has betrayed his family’s trust, he’s glad his heart wasn’t involved. Glad she’s gone. Glad he’ll never see her again. Until he realizes a couple terrible truths too late: Ana was actually the one who was betrayed, and somehow he’s fallen hard for her. Now he needs a bit of Christmas magic to prove he’s worthy of her love.
Noel finds Ana endlessly fascinating and incredibly sexy. With a bit of charming persuasion from him, the two begin what they both know is a short-term affair. No rules, no heartache, just great sex and a bit of fun. So when he believes Ana has betrayed his family’s trust, he’s glad his heart wasn’t involved. Glad she’s gone. Glad he’ll never see her again. Until he realizes a couple terrible truths too late: Ana was actually the one who was betrayed, and somehow he’s fallen hard for her. Now he needs a bit of Christmas magic to prove he’s worthy of her love.
First published December 4, 2018
About the author
Leslie North
513 books1,432 followersNew to Leslie? Readers suggest starting with 'The Bossy One' (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6BP3BBF) —Imagine a sunny Minnesotan Mary Poppins, employed by a grumpy Irish billionaire. The story is a blend of humor, revenge, passion, heartbreak, hope, and witty banter. As one reader put it, ‘This story had me squealing at the romantic moments and silly moments.’
Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!
In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!
Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
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Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pseudonym for a critically-acclaimed author of romantic comedies and contemporary romance. The anonymity allows her to fully express her creativity, especially in the romantic and fun sexy scenes!
In fact, she confesses to loving her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her everyday self! Her bestselling books are known for their strong characters, particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha bosshole. And the humor? So infectious, you’ll be laughing out loud in public!
Leslie’s love for romance began when she picked up a worn-out romance book from her local library. She started writing soon after, and as they say, the rest was history. She now resides in a cozy cottage on the British coast, enjoying long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
I'm Social Too:
Website: www.leslienorthbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/leslienorthbooks
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@leslienorthcomments
Instagram:www.instagram.com/leslienorth_books
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
December 8, 2018
I nabbed this one off of NetGalley because I thought it sounded like it would have a very good grovel. It didn't. In fact, it had ZERO grovel. He just shows up, says "sorry" and that is that...much disappointment ensued...sigh.
May 6, 2023
First, I'd like to thank NetGalley, the author and Relay Publishing for this book.
When I first saw this on NetGalley, I though it's going to be a Christmas-y read, with snowflakes and Christmas Tree and hot chocolate and cookies.
Well... it doesn't have any of this. It feels more like summer. And the main character, Anna, is a likeable character. But she cooks traditional and extravagant food, and she goes for running every morning. And she takes care of her child, Linh. And she falls in love with Noel, the master of the palace's middle son. I liked them both. What I didn't liked was that there were 2 chapters only with them doing sex. The places they were doing it, though...they were splendid.
Anyway, the plot was good. I liked the idea, but I knew who will be the one who will sabotage her. It was obvious.
What I liked the most was the ending. I loved Noel for his in-depth search about was has actually happened. I loved the fact that he did justice and he finds Ana. It was a beautiful, happy ending.
2,75 stars for this book.
When I first saw this on NetGalley, I though it's going to be a Christmas-y read, with snowflakes and Christmas Tree and hot chocolate and cookies.
Well... it doesn't have any of this. It feels more like summer. And the main character, Anna, is a likeable character. But she cooks traditional and extravagant food, and she goes for running every morning. And she takes care of her child, Linh. And she falls in love with Noel, the master of the palace's middle son. I liked them both. What I didn't liked was that there were 2 chapters only with them doing sex. The places they were doing it, though...they were splendid.
Anyway, the plot was good. I liked the idea, but I knew who will be the one who will sabotage her. It was obvious.
What I liked the most was the ending. I loved Noel for his in-depth search about was has actually happened. I loved the fact that he did justice and he finds Ana. It was a beautiful, happy ending.
2,75 stars for this book.
December 9, 2018
I enjoyed the first book in Leslie North’s new series Christmas with the Yared Sheihks - The Sheikh's Christmas Fling; however I was disappointed with the ending.
A story of a professional woman down on her luck, Ana is employed as head chef for the royal family and finds subterfuge and drama around every corner. Together with her sou chef Charlie, Ana is determined to prove her worth. But the unexpected romantic entanglement with the middle son, Noel, and the underhanded scheming of a disgruntled foe, make for confusing and often heightened emotions, before the inevitable betrayal occurs.
The characters were likeable, the storyline was well developed for such a short story, and some fun balanced the drama. What I didn’t like was Ana’s instant forgiveness of a monumental lack of faith and trust from the man who easily cast her aside without allowing her a hearing. So, a good story, but the ending lost this one a star.
A story of a professional woman down on her luck, Ana is employed as head chef for the royal family and finds subterfuge and drama around every corner. Together with her sou chef Charlie, Ana is determined to prove her worth. But the unexpected romantic entanglement with the middle son, Noel, and the underhanded scheming of a disgruntled foe, make for confusing and often heightened emotions, before the inevitable betrayal occurs.
The characters were likeable, the storyline was well developed for such a short story, and some fun balanced the drama. What I didn’t like was Ana’s instant forgiveness of a monumental lack of faith and trust from the man who easily cast her aside without allowing her a hearing. So, a good story, but the ending lost this one a star.
December 12, 2018
This was a quick little read. There was some angst and some pretty good "I'm sorry I didn't believe you" actions. Noel was swoony, but I think Ana forgave him a bit too easily.
December 9, 2018
Not for me at all, very short and not so sweet, chemistry rushed and no substance, oh you didn't believe me oh okay then I forgive you. Completely unbelievable and implausible behaviours. If it was padded out more, characters fleshed out and responses more realistic it could have been good, but sadly it wasn't.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
December 9, 2018
She doesn't go looking for heartache, yet somehow it always finds her. He never counted on losing his heart, but fate had other plans. The Sheikh's Christmas Fling is hope at it's worst and love at it's finest. Ana is on the verge of losing everything, when a silver lining heads her way. A stranger in a foreign land with a baby in tow and one friend for support, she realizes she's in over her head. Temptation comes in the form of a frustratingly, sexy Prince who quickly sweeps her off her feet, but will her chance at happiness last? North tugs at the heart as she seduces the soul with this unpredictable duo.
January 6, 2019
I have mixed feelings about this one. On one hand, I love Leslie North’s books and I love her stories with sheikhs and all this interesting land. However, for “The Sheikh's Christmas Fling” it’s the short length that bothers me so much.
We have characters with potential and an interesting plot, but there is not much room for development. Ana is one of the most determined heroines I’ve encountered. She has faced a failed marriage, a ruined business and career. Now she starts over in a small country, where tradition is key and food customs are to be respected. Little did she expect to feel this attraction for her employer’s son – Sheikh Noel Yared. He shows her his country, with all its beauty, the spices that are at the heart of their culinary tradition and all she has to do is work her magic. However, not everybody is happy with the arrival of the new chef and she has to deal with a disgruntled employer, willing to do whatever it takes to see h iner out of the kitchen.
As I was mentioning, there is so much potential here. I wanted to see Ana explore more of the food,
I wanted to see more traditions, just more of Maatkare. Noel knows he should stay away from a single mother, but this angle is not explored enough. As for Ana, she has adopted her daughter from a foreign country – cheers for that! But I wanted to know why. Charlie, Ana’s best friend is more like a shadow and for now I don’t see where he fits in the bigger picture.
With all my complains, we do have this intense attraction between the two and I loved to see Noel’s respect and pride for his country. They are a match for one another in terms of ambition and success.
All in all, I would never pass a Leslie North book. Even if this is not the great start I was expecting, I cannot wait to discover the other stories in the series. I saw that they are a little longer so I have high hopes.
We have characters with potential and an interesting plot, but there is not much room for development. Ana is one of the most determined heroines I’ve encountered. She has faced a failed marriage, a ruined business and career. Now she starts over in a small country, where tradition is key and food customs are to be respected. Little did she expect to feel this attraction for her employer’s son – Sheikh Noel Yared. He shows her his country, with all its beauty, the spices that are at the heart of their culinary tradition and all she has to do is work her magic. However, not everybody is happy with the arrival of the new chef and she has to deal with a disgruntled employer, willing to do whatever it takes to see h iner out of the kitchen.
As I was mentioning, there is so much potential here. I wanted to see Ana explore more of the food,
I wanted to see more traditions, just more of Maatkare. Noel knows he should stay away from a single mother, but this angle is not explored enough. As for Ana, she has adopted her daughter from a foreign country – cheers for that! But I wanted to know why. Charlie, Ana’s best friend is more like a shadow and for now I don’t see where he fits in the bigger picture.
With all my complains, we do have this intense attraction between the two and I loved to see Noel’s respect and pride for his country. They are a match for one another in terms of ambition and success.
All in all, I would never pass a Leslie North book. Even if this is not the great start I was expecting, I cannot wait to discover the other stories in the series. I saw that they are a little longer so I have high hopes.
December 14, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
If you are looking for a great contemporary romance novel that has a holiday flair to it then look no further then this little gem. Ana takes a temporary chef position at the palace for the Kingdom of Maatkare. This is perfect as she gets over a bad divorce and the closing of her restaurant as she adapts to now being a single mother. What she doesn't expect is to be under the management of one of the crown princes. As they attempt to work together the sparks start to fly until we hit the crazy ending that has them living HEA. Perfect fans of Sheikh contemporary romance novels. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
If you are looking for a great contemporary romance novel that has a holiday flair to it then look no further then this little gem. Ana takes a temporary chef position at the palace for the Kingdom of Maatkare. This is perfect as she gets over a bad divorce and the closing of her restaurant as she adapts to now being a single mother. What she doesn't expect is to be under the management of one of the crown princes. As they attempt to work together the sparks start to fly until we hit the crazy ending that has them living HEA. Perfect fans of Sheikh contemporary romance novels. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
December 11, 2018
This short story was like watching a Hollmark Xmas movie.
It was a fast, fun, steamy little read about a down-on-her-luck woman who moved far away to find her footing again. As every romantic book we have a sheikh who is captivated by the woman and will stop at nothing when trying to mend the mistakes he'd made with her.
I really enjoyed this novella and will be picking up Leslie North books in the near future.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
It was a fast, fun, steamy little read about a down-on-her-luck woman who moved far away to find her footing again. As every romantic book we have a sheikh who is captivated by the woman and will stop at nothing when trying to mend the mistakes he'd made with her.
I really enjoyed this novella and will be picking up Leslie North books in the near future.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
November 26, 2018
Going to a strange country is scary enough but add in that Ana is at her lowest point then you have a making for a good book. Ana has been hired to be the head chef in the king’s palace but with the prince breathing down her neck and someone out to sabotage her cooking, she has more on her plate than she can take.
December 5, 2018
This is Short and Sweet🍬
The book is a short and sweet one about a woman chef who goes to The Mideast to take a job in a King's palace after her restaurant fails. She meets, Noel, the middle son of the King and they fall in love💘 over the kitchen stove.
ARC Received from Hidden 💎Gems
The opinions are my own.
The book is a short and sweet one about a woman chef who goes to The Mideast to take a job in a King's palace after her restaurant fails. She meets, Noel, the middle son of the King and they fall in love💘 over the kitchen stove.
ARC Received from Hidden 💎Gems
The opinions are my own.
December 9, 2018
This was on whole a feel good Christmasy book.The feeling of holidays,love and care for one another was depicted very fervently in this story.It encompassed everything that a good book should have.Overall it was a very good book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2018
Ana and her daughter Lihn were spending their first full day at the palace. Lihn was Ana’s three year old adopted daughter. Ana’s best friend and Sous Chef Charlie were being led to the kitchen. Charlie and Ana had been friends for ten years. It was one and a half months before Christmas and this was an important new job. Ana worked a lot and with all the recent upheaval and travel Ana was sure Lihn would not detach from her hip any time soon. This was the kind of kitchen Ana had dreamed about. Ana didn’t know what the right choice was anymore. She had been looking for a challenge. Ana’s ex Reggie had drove their restaurant -Mirage- in L A into the ground. Ana was an exacting professional. Beyond that she was a trained chef and wanted to own her own restaurant again. But first she needed financial stability. This job was her ticket to debt freedom and investment money for her next business endeavor. It was also thousands of miles from Reggie. She had left Reggie almost a year ago. All she had to do was make it through forty three days of elaborate vegan meals in the name of Christmas. The whole palace was aparadise not just the kitchen.t sheikh had even hired her a nanny for Lihn. Reggie had been stealing money from the restaurant and than he bolted form his daughter’s life after adopting her from Vietnam. After putting Lihn down for a nap and having the nanny with her and putting the baby monitor on Ana went back to the kitchen. After a search she had enough to get a test kitchen going. Ana asked Charlie to give her a half hour and he left to take a nap. She needed her time and space to think. To create. To adjust. Than a handsome man came into the kitchen and wanted to know what she was making. Ana than told him she would appreciate if he left. Than he told her it was his palace- It was Noal who was the prince. Than he realized this was the chef his father had brought from America. Ana than said Noel could be her food tester. Noal wasn’t one to hassel strangers but there was something about this woman that felt familiar. Like they’d been giving each other a hard time for years. In the early morning Noel went to go for his run and seen Ana and invited her to run with him. Ana said yes as she didn’t know her way around. They had both been running since they were young. Noel had inspirations for a tem from his country and would be on that team. It became a daily event to run together every morning. There was something about Noel’s solid unwavering presence at her side in the vulnerable misty morning. It felt like having a H S crush all over again. Noel clearly knew his power over Ana. Ana just needed to show up at work and spend time with her daughter. That’s all she needed. Both Ana and Noel had to be the best, the winner. Noel took her on a longer run and passionately kissed her than acted as though nothing had happened between them. Ana had never responded to anyone like she did Noel. As later he felt it was a mistake . he didn’t want to get involved with a single mother or get involved with anyone at all.
I enjoyed reading this book a lot. It did drag some for me at times but not enough for me to stop reading it. I loved Joel and Ana together and how they interacted. I also like how both Joel and Ana were determined at first not to get involved with each other and than to only be a fling. I was a little annoyed with Noel for having doubted Ana and thinking she would steal. But it was from the word of long time employee of thirty years also. But he should have known her better than that. But at least he questioned and proved Ana’s innocence. I do feel the ending was a little rushed but still loved it. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend it
I enjoyed reading this book a lot. It did drag some for me at times but not enough for me to stop reading it. I loved Joel and Ana together and how they interacted. I also like how both Joel and Ana were determined at first not to get involved with each other and than to only be a fling. I was a little annoyed with Noel for having doubted Ana and thinking she would steal. But it was from the word of long time employee of thirty years also. But he should have known her better than that. But at least he questioned and proved Ana’s innocence. I do feel the ending was a little rushed but still loved it. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this book and I recommend it
December 6, 2018
The Sheikh's Christmas Fling (Christmas with the Yared Sheikhs Book 1) By: Leslie NorthEnjoy "The Sheikh's Christmas Fling," It's Sure To Bring A Smile Your Way!
After My life implodes....
I'm giving it the Old College try!
This time I've travelled afar to Prepare some Dishes Bizzar...
It's a Temp job for a Festive Holiday Feast...
Only problem is...
I've stepped on a Local's Feet!
Now, I'm dealing with Sabotage inside My Kitchen...
Just when I should be Dishin'...
Some O' the finest Dinin' to a Royal Pack of Dignitaries!!!
As of that's NOT enough Pressure...
There's HEAT between Me & the Prince, which can't be beat...
Into submission...
No matter how HARD we try to deny IT!
Sooo, why NOT indulge a Bit...
But, as the LAST straw to break this Camel's BACK...
I've been Framed of a Fraudulent Act...
Sent Packing without a Chance for DEFENCE...
Sooo, I'm leaving... head hung in Defeat!
But....
That's NOT the END of My Story...
Of Course, There's a Chance I Rally & the Prince Rides to Glory...
But for ALL those Deets...
You'll need to Buy the Book... Toot Sweet!!
It's a Tale that can't be Beat, & a Delightful Treat!
I was granted an ARC of Leslie North's "The Sheikh's Christmas Fling (Christmas with the Yared Sheikhs Book 1)" via Booksprout; I recommend this book to others based upon its own merits. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
December 16, 2018
This was a quick read. And I was finishing it up, I realized it was too short and not as developed as it should have been.
I found it tough to really like Noel or Ana either one because while we heard some of their history, the character development itself was lacking. I always have trouble liking a character if I can't get a handle on his personality early on in the book. And early on, I didn't particularly like Noel at all. He appeared too serious in his teasing of Ana. I guess teasing is the wrong word - they poked at each other, but there wasn't enough good naturedness OR spark between them to make that poking into a prelude to romance. Instead, it was two people needling each other. Not what I want to see at the beginning of what is purported to be a romance.
If I'm reading something that stops before Location 2000 on my Kindle, it needs punch. A lot of punch, otherwise it is just another novella written in the Steamy Contemporary Romance genre that won't keep me awake. Luckily, I'd had plenty of sleep before I read this. :-)
The sabotage could have been a bit better written, it was too easy to see who was behind it. And Ana disappointed me when Noel came back. She takes him back far too quickly to be realistic. Not one of us reading would have taken him back without some deep conversation, of which there was none. I did like the character of Ana better than Noel, probably because it was clear that she'd had some rough times and was trying to bring herself back into success, and was willing to take her daughter halfway around the world to do it. THAT was realistic.
And I have a few pet peeves about short books, and one is the ending. This one just ended. Period. Nothing. Over. And. Done. With. When an author writes something short, as I said before, it needs the punch to make it something the reader wants to read more of, but most importantly, it has to have an ending that the reader remembers with enjoyment, not shock that they just turned the page and that was the end of that. That's how I felt at the end of this. Maybe an epilogue? Maybe another page or two to let me down easy instead of having me walk off the edge of the Kindle into nothingness?
Yes, I'm a critical reader and in this case I read an ARC of this story and this review is in my own words.
I found it tough to really like Noel or Ana either one because while we heard some of their history, the character development itself was lacking. I always have trouble liking a character if I can't get a handle on his personality early on in the book. And early on, I didn't particularly like Noel at all. He appeared too serious in his teasing of Ana. I guess teasing is the wrong word - they poked at each other, but there wasn't enough good naturedness OR spark between them to make that poking into a prelude to romance. Instead, it was two people needling each other. Not what I want to see at the beginning of what is purported to be a romance.
If I'm reading something that stops before Location 2000 on my Kindle, it needs punch. A lot of punch, otherwise it is just another novella written in the Steamy Contemporary Romance genre that won't keep me awake. Luckily, I'd had plenty of sleep before I read this. :-)
The sabotage could have been a bit better written, it was too easy to see who was behind it. And Ana disappointed me when Noel came back. She takes him back far too quickly to be realistic. Not one of us reading would have taken him back without some deep conversation, of which there was none. I did like the character of Ana better than Noel, probably because it was clear that she'd had some rough times and was trying to bring herself back into success, and was willing to take her daughter halfway around the world to do it. THAT was realistic.
And I have a few pet peeves about short books, and one is the ending. This one just ended. Period. Nothing. Over. And. Done. With. When an author writes something short, as I said before, it needs the punch to make it something the reader wants to read more of, but most importantly, it has to have an ending that the reader remembers with enjoyment, not shock that they just turned the page and that was the end of that. That's how I felt at the end of this. Maybe an epilogue? Maybe another page or two to let me down easy instead of having me walk off the edge of the Kindle into nothingness?
Yes, I'm a critical reader and in this case I read an ARC of this story and this review is in my own words.
December 6, 2018
A short sweet story of insta-lust that turned into real love. The heroine, an American named Ana, is a dedicated, focused, dependable, determined young woman who life's ambition was to become a professional chef. She does accomplish her goal. She wanted to be a mother, so she adopted a Vietnamese little girl named Linh. She is a loving devoted mother and cherishes her relationship with her daughter. Noel is from a royal line of Sheikhs in the Kingdom of Maatkare. He is serious, efficient, politically aware and is steadfastly devoted to his family. Orthodox Christianity is practiced in Maatkare and over the fall and winter holidays the feasts are vegan. Ana is hired by Noel's father to oversee the kitchen and serve her delightful dishes at his palace like the kind he had in L.A. Noel and Ana tease each other mercilessly when they first meet. They find they both run for exercise and decide to do it together. Their attraction grows. However, things in the kitchen are not going as smoothly as Ana hoped. There is a saboteur in their mist. Ana has an idea who it is but can't prove it. Ingredients and food go missing resulting in locks going on the doors for precaution. Then Ana is accused of theft and thrown out of the palace. Ana is forced to take inventory of her life and decides to go another route. This is a sweet story of trial and error, about a fight for justice, romance and love. What started out as a temporary, no strings attached relationship turns into something more. I did enjoy reading this. I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book via Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2018
You pretty much get exactly what is promised in the synopsis and title, folks. So if you like a quick to get to the easy loving without declaring love followed up with relationship angst, this book will likely appeal to you.
My biggest beef is I would have preferred more groveling at the end. I wanted Ana, the chef heroine, to make Noel, the hero, eat his own words. Also, I’m confused why Noel took Ana at her word before having unprotected sex, but automatically assumed she was a liar when accusations were made against her. With all those responsibilities on Ana’s shoulders, she shouldn’t have taken those kinds of risks either.
As always, this author’s writing style flows seamlessly. At only 153 pages, I flew right through this steamy read.
P.S. I did find it a rather stretch of the imagination that the hero was not only gorgeous, rich, a sheikh, but also trying to get him and his team in the next Olympics.
Title: The Sheikh’s Christmas Fling, Series: Christmas with the Yared Sheikhs (Book 1), Author: Leslie North, Pages: 153, stand-alone but part of a series, very steamy scenes, divorced with adopted daughter chef heroine, didn’t stand by his girl hero, no OW/OM, no love triangle, no cheating. Rating: 3 - 3.5 stars
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
My biggest beef is I would have preferred more groveling at the end. I wanted Ana, the chef heroine, to make Noel, the hero, eat his own words. Also, I’m confused why Noel took Ana at her word before having unprotected sex, but automatically assumed she was a liar when accusations were made against her. With all those responsibilities on Ana’s shoulders, she shouldn’t have taken those kinds of risks either.
As always, this author’s writing style flows seamlessly. At only 153 pages, I flew right through this steamy read.
P.S. I did find it a rather stretch of the imagination that the hero was not only gorgeous, rich, a sheikh, but also trying to get him and his team in the next Olympics.
Title: The Sheikh’s Christmas Fling, Series: Christmas with the Yared Sheikhs (Book 1), Author: Leslie North, Pages: 153, stand-alone but part of a series, very steamy scenes, divorced with adopted daughter chef heroine, didn’t stand by his girl hero, no OW/OM, no love triangle, no cheating. Rating: 3 - 3.5 stars
(I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review. There is no affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.)
December 8, 2018
Ana and her friend Charlie come across the country to cook for the royal family. Ana is the chef and Charlie is her sous chef they both are just coming off her other restaurant failing so they really need this to work out. Noel is the middle son of the family and he takes an active role in making sure everything runs smoothly. He comes to check up and Ana because he isn't sure she should be cooking the main dinners for the holiday season. However after tasting some of her samples he knows that his father chose well. Ana and Charlie are stressed because someone keeps trying to sabotage their meals. The only comfort Ana has is when she visits with her daughter. Noel and Ana meet one morning as they are both heading for a run so they run together. They start making a daily thing of it and soon they get real close. Yet when there is a misunderstanding and Ana and Charlie are fired Noel believes the worse and doesn't fight for her. Will Noel figure out that Ana didn't do what she's accused of? Can Ana forgive him for not believing in her?
This is a great story once I started reading I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between them is off the charts hot. This is a well written and very entertaining story. I would recommend this book to any book lover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a great story once I started reading I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between them is off the charts hot. This is a well written and very entertaining story. I would recommend this book to any book lover.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2018
Things have not been going well for Ana. A marriage over, an adopted daughter, the restaurant failed too. The only one she can depend on is her friend Charlie. Then she gets a six week short contract as chef for royal family of the Kingdom of Maatkare. She is determined to do her best and this could lead to more work. But it's the middle son of the royal family, Noel, whose approval [in terms of his opinion of her food only of course] that she seeks. They go running together and get close but it's only casual acquaintances with benefits. Nothing serious. No real feelings involved until it's too late and he thinks that she's betrayed his family and so she goes. Never to be seen again or so Noel thinks. But then the truth emerges and Noel realises that Ana is in his heart and he badly needs to find her and make things right. But is it too late? This is a great story by Leslie North and one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and getting 'to know' these characters. Interesting and realistic and the chemistry between them seemed to sizzle between the 'pages' of my kindle. Great writing, by Leslie North who really knows how to draw you into a story and keep you there right to the very end. I look forward to her next book!I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. Definitely Recommended
December 19, 2018
i read this book as part of an arc program. This is the first book in the Christmas With the Yared Sheikhs series. In this book, Noah is the second son of the Sheilkh and is hoping to find sponsors for the tiny Kingdom of Maatkare to send a running team to the Olympics. Noah is also in charge of the palace finances and hopes to cut costs in the kitchen throughout the holiday celebrations. The Sheikh has hired an American chef and her assistant to take Noah's mother's place, since she is away for treatment for an illness. Ana is the chef and the mother of a three year old daughter she adopted with her ex-husband. When Ana first meets Noah, she stands up to him and he thinks it is fun to annoy her. They clash at first, but eventually learn to tolerate each other. When Ana finds Noah about to go on a run, he asks her to join him and they begin running together everyday. Noah is attracted to Ana, but knows she is leaving after the holidays. Ana tells Noah she doesn't want anything serious, so they act on their attractions for a fling. When Ana is fired and sent away from the palace, Noah refuses to believe she is innocent of wrong doings. I enjoyed this whole series and i really liked Noah. I thought he really cared for Ana and enjoyed their banter. I think Ana had a run of really bad luck and wanted to believe it was over, but she had a hard time having hope. Good one.
December 6, 2018
Ana Rizzo and Charlie, her best friend and sous chef, have a wonderful opportunity to work at a temporary high-paying job in the Kingdom of Maatkare. Ana needed the money to give her the chance to open a new restaurant since her ex-husband caused her to lose her original one. Getting herself re-established would be a new start for her and her daughter.
Ana meets the middle son, Noel Yared, and he seems to enjoy her recipes. But the head chef immediately dislikes her and does all he can to make things difficult for her. Ana and Noel get to know each other better. Since both like to jog, they use that time together to become comfortable and decide to start up a short-term relationship. But when Ana is falsely accused of something she did not do, despite Segal’s “proof” that she was allegedly stealing product and reselling it at the market, Noel sees it as Ana’s betrayal of his family and doesn’t even give her a chance to defend herself before forcing her to leave. Will he finally look further into things and find the truth? Or will he let her go out of his life and lose something very special?
This was an enjoyable story. The characters were likable and the story was paced comfortably. But can Noel repair the trust he broke?
Ana meets the middle son, Noel Yared, and he seems to enjoy her recipes. But the head chef immediately dislikes her and does all he can to make things difficult for her. Ana and Noel get to know each other better. Since both like to jog, they use that time together to become comfortable and decide to start up a short-term relationship. But when Ana is falsely accused of something she did not do, despite Segal’s “proof” that she was allegedly stealing product and reselling it at the market, Noel sees it as Ana’s betrayal of his family and doesn’t even give her a chance to defend herself before forcing her to leave. Will he finally look further into things and find the truth? Or will he let her go out of his life and lose something very special?
This was an enjoyable story. The characters were likable and the story was paced comfortably. But can Noel repair the trust he broke?
December 6, 2018
Ana Rizzo and Charlie, her best friend and sous chef, have a wonderful opportunity to work at a temporary high-paying job in the Kingdom of Maatkare. Ana needed the money to give her the chance to open a new restaurant since her ex-husband caused her to lose her original one. Getting herself re-established would be a new start for her and her daughter.
Ana meets the middle son, Noel Yared, and he seems to enjoy her recipes. But the head chef immediately dislikes her and does all he can to make things difficult for her. Ana and Noel get to know each other better. Since both like to jog, they use that time together to become comfortable and decide to start up a short-term relationship. But when Ana is falsely accused of something she did not do, despite Segal’s “proof” that she was allegedly stealing product and reselling it at the market, Noel sees it as Ana’s betrayal of his family and doesn’t even give her a chance to defend herself before forcing her to leave. Will he finally look further into things and find the truth? Or will he let her go out of his life and lose something very special?
This was an enjoyable story. The characters were likable and the story was paced comfortably. But can Noel repair the trust he broke?
Ana meets the middle son, Noel Yared, and he seems to enjoy her recipes. But the head chef immediately dislikes her and does all he can to make things difficult for her. Ana and Noel get to know each other better. Since both like to jog, they use that time together to become comfortable and decide to start up a short-term relationship. But when Ana is falsely accused of something she did not do, despite Segal’s “proof” that she was allegedly stealing product and reselling it at the market, Noel sees it as Ana’s betrayal of his family and doesn’t even give her a chance to defend herself before forcing her to leave. Will he finally look further into things and find the truth? Or will he let her go out of his life and lose something very special?
This was an enjoyable story. The characters were likable and the story was paced comfortably. But can Noel repair the trust he broke?
December 7, 2018
DASDEREDLY DELICIOUS!!!
Oh man, talk about underhanded deals. This is one exciting, action packed, fast paced, heart pounding, pulse racing, smooth flowing, page turning tale that's as riveting as it is captivating. All the drama, deceit, betrayal, lies, theft, confusion, mystery and suspense increases steadily as the tension spirals while the plot thickens. Twists and turns, ups and downs, unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for one enjoyable experience. When you don't know who's friend or foe it makes for one terrifying encounter. The two main characters chemistry is white hot explosive. They're complex and believable with such depth and individuality. The scenes are so vividly descriptive and detailed it really pulls this little gem together beautifully. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it really makes the storyline pop. Leslie did an incredible job bringing this read to life. Great job Leslie, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
Oh man, talk about underhanded deals. This is one exciting, action packed, fast paced, heart pounding, pulse racing, smooth flowing, page turning tale that's as riveting as it is captivating. All the drama, deceit, betrayal, lies, theft, confusion, mystery and suspense increases steadily as the tension spirals while the plot thickens. Twists and turns, ups and downs, unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for one enjoyable experience. When you don't know who's friend or foe it makes for one terrifying encounter. The two main characters chemistry is white hot explosive. They're complex and believable with such depth and individuality. The scenes are so vividly descriptive and detailed it really pulls this little gem together beautifully. The characters and scenes are written with such realism it really makes the storyline pop. Leslie did an incredible job bringing this read to life. Great job Leslie, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
December 9, 2018
AMAZING!!!! Absolutely fantastic! Leslie starts a new Christmas series with these awesome American women and their sheikh princes.
Anna is looking to start over with her adopted daughter after divorcing her husband who left in an unwelcoming situation in the US. She’s offered a job at the palace as the cook for the Christmas events and decided this is what’s going to get her back into her groove and eventually a new restaurant.
Noel is the 2nd prince and is in charge of the food catering for the next few weeks leading up to Christmas. The family is reeling as mom is in Switzerland try some new meds for her cancer.
Can these two come together to make it a successful holiday or will the staff at the palace make it impossible for the American cook to come through. Will it really be just a fling or will her incompetence in the kitchen make it impossible. Absolutely loved it!!! Another must read by Leslie that keeps on giving. A great start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Anna is looking to start over with her adopted daughter after divorcing her husband who left in an unwelcoming situation in the US. She’s offered a job at the palace as the cook for the Christmas events and decided this is what’s going to get her back into her groove and eventually a new restaurant.
Noel is the 2nd prince and is in charge of the food catering for the next few weeks leading up to Christmas. The family is reeling as mom is in Switzerland try some new meds for her cancer.
Can these two come together to make it a successful holiday or will the staff at the palace make it impossible for the American cook to come through. Will it really be just a fling or will her incompetence in the kitchen make it impossible. Absolutely loved it!!! Another must read by Leslie that keeps on giving. A great start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2018
A Quick Sexy Spicy Read
A quick read that is just spicy enough to get your heart thumping. The characters go great together and give you a sense of normalcy with a touch of royalty. Ana it's trying to gain control of her life after a divorce and losing her restaurant by agreeing to travel to a Palace in Maatkare with her daughter and best friend and Sous Chef Charlie. What she doesn't plan on is middle son, Noel or the glares from their long time chef. While trying to prove herself Ana and Noel grow closer with their morning ritual of flirting jogging sessions and give in to their attraction. When ingredients for special dishes go missing Ana takes steps to protect her kitchen, but the damage is already done. Noel doesn't stand up for Ana and she is removed from the Palace but something doesn't add up with what he knows of her. Will he figure out what is going on veggie it's too late??? This is an entertaining read and I loved reading about Ana's adopted daughter, Lingh.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book
A quick read that is just spicy enough to get your heart thumping. The characters go great together and give you a sense of normalcy with a touch of royalty. Ana it's trying to gain control of her life after a divorce and losing her restaurant by agreeing to travel to a Palace in Maatkare with her daughter and best friend and Sous Chef Charlie. What she doesn't plan on is middle son, Noel or the glares from their long time chef. While trying to prove herself Ana and Noel grow closer with their morning ritual of flirting jogging sessions and give in to their attraction. When ingredients for special dishes go missing Ana takes steps to protect her kitchen, but the damage is already done. Noel doesn't stand up for Ana and she is removed from the Palace but something doesn't add up with what he knows of her. Will he figure out what is going on veggie it's too late??? This is an entertaining read and I loved reading about Ana's adopted daughter, Lingh.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book
December 6, 2018
Ms North has just published her latest romance and I found myself captivated by this storyline. With these amazingly crafted characters, you will be sure to become as addicted as I was from beginning to end. Ana is not only a recent divorcee but she is also a single mother and in need of a change. And what a change she gets when she travels to another country for a job opportunity. Impress with her culinary skills? No pressure there. Unbeknownst to Ana, she about to meet the real man of her dreams, only to have it all ripped away from her. When can anything ever go her way? Can Noel fix it in time? It looks like a Christmas miracle just might be in store for them. Why not follow along to find out?
I was beyond fortunate to have requested an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for my honest and voluntarily given opinion. I truly do recommend reading this book as well as anything written by Ms North.
I was beyond fortunate to have requested an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for my honest and voluntarily given opinion. I truly do recommend reading this book as well as anything written by Ms North.
December 7, 2018
This is the start of Leslie North's holiday series. Book 1 is about Noel and Ana. The king has brought in 3 American women to help with the holidays. Ana is the new chef and the King has asked Noel to oversee the kitchen. If the beginning Noel wasn't comfortable with someone new in the kitchen. He wanted thing to stay the same. Traditional food was what he wanted. But the more he was in the kitchen and getting closer to Ana he know something had changed. The attraction between the two was becoming undeniable. When her life was in danger and things were happening in the kitchen. Everything changed for them. It was good to watch Noel fall in love with Ana. As well as opening his heart and palate to her. The book is fun, family oriented, sexy and put me in the holiday spirit. Now I'm ready to put a twist on my holiday food. Good start to this holiday series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 12, 2018
Anna needs to make some money to set up another restaurant after her ex caused her last restaurant to close down, so she takes a short term contract to cook for Christmas in the small country of Maatkare. Now she her adopted daughter Linh and her sous chef Charlie have arrived and are about to start work She soon finds herself under the eagle eye of the middle son of the royal family Noel. When she is set up to take the fall for something that she didn't do Noel reacts and she is sent on her way but when he has time to think and investigate e realises he has made a terrible mistake Will he be able to find the woman he has grown to love and if he does will she ever forgive him You need to read to see
Another great start to the trilogy's that Leslie writes s well Looking forward to The Sheikh's Christmas Family and the The Sheikh's Christmas Lover both involving woman that we met in this story
Another great start to the trilogy's that Leslie writes s well Looking forward to The Sheikh's Christmas Family and the The Sheikh's Christmas Lover both involving woman that we met in this story
December 8, 2018
Ana Rizzo is desperate to prove she has what it takes after her first restaurant fails but knowing that it was her ex's fault and not something she did wrong. So she nabs a high paying job in the tiny Kingdom of Maatkare where the royal family needs a chef for the holiday period.
Noel Yared, is the oldest son of the King and although he is mesmerized by Ana he is skeptical due to the insinuations of one of the head cooks, Segal.
And as luck would have it Segal wins out or so it seems until Noel sets out to find out for himself if Ana had him fooled because the Ana he knows would never do such a thing. Turns out he was right but it may be too late.
This is a fast paced little book with heat between the two main characters and evil trying to have it's own selfish way.
Will Noel be able to get Ana back or will Segal win after all?
Noel Yared, is the oldest son of the King and although he is mesmerized by Ana he is skeptical due to the insinuations of one of the head cooks, Segal.
And as luck would have it Segal wins out or so it seems until Noel sets out to find out for himself if Ana had him fooled because the Ana he knows would never do such a thing. Turns out he was right but it may be too late.
This is a fast paced little book with heat between the two main characters and evil trying to have it's own selfish way.
Will Noel be able to get Ana back or will Segal win after all?
December 9, 2018
Ana Rizzo accompanied by Charlie, her best friend and sous chef, and Ana's 3 year old adopted daughter, has flown to the other side of the world to take a chef's job for the Othodox Christian small nation of Maatkare. There she will be in charge of a large, modern kitchen to prepare regular state meals during the season leading up to the celebration of Christ's birth in January. The main challenge will be to prepare all strictly vegan meals as the country maintains its seasonal fast. But she will soon meet other challenges: Noel, the Sheikh's middle son who is overseeing the kitchen becomes her running buddy and lover, while the chef of the family kitchen plots her ruination with the Sheikh and his son. Will she return to LA without money, a job, or reputation? North tells her usual great story!
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