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Mission City #1
Ginger Snapping All the Way
Maddox
I’m not a fan of Christmas. I’m happy to stay up in my mountain cabin and let the silly season pass me by. But when a friend asks for a favor, I can’t say no. Now I’m stuck in my cabin during a snowstorm, trapped with the most beautiful man I’ve ever met—who can’t wait to get away. He just might break my heart when he goes.
Ravi
I’m racing to get home for the birth of my goddaughter when mechanical troubles force my plane’s emergency landing. There are no beds at the inn due to a horrendous storm, but a friend says she knows a guy who won’t mind putting me up until the bad weather passes. Now I’m trapped with that man, and I must decide if I stay, hiding from the rest of the world, or go and face my past to earn a shot at my happily ever after.
This is a 72k word, hurt/comfort, lumberjack/nurse, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity MM romance novel with a moderate amount of angst.
I’m not a fan of Christmas. I’m happy to stay up in my mountain cabin and let the silly season pass me by. But when a friend asks for a favor, I can’t say no. Now I’m stuck in my cabin during a snowstorm, trapped with the most beautiful man I’ve ever met—who can’t wait to get away. He just might break my heart when he goes.
Ravi
I’m racing to get home for the birth of my goddaughter when mechanical troubles force my plane’s emergency landing. There are no beds at the inn due to a horrendous storm, but a friend says she knows a guy who won’t mind putting me up until the bad weather passes. Now I’m trapped with that man, and I must decide if I stay, hiding from the rest of the world, or go and face my past to earn a shot at my happily ever after.
This is a 72k word, hurt/comfort, lumberjack/nurse, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity MM romance novel with a moderate amount of angst.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2021
About the author
Gabbi Grey
48 books229 followersGabbi lives in beautiful British Columbia where her fur baby chin-poo keeps her safe from the nasty neighborhood squirrels. Working for the government by day, she spends her early mornings writing contemporary, gay, sweet, and dark erotic BDSM romances. While she firmly believes in happy endings, she also believes in making her characters suffer before finding their true love. She also writes m/f romances as Gabbi Black.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
January 30, 2022
Sometimes it's a case of the right person, at exactly the right time. Maddox and Ravi meet when Maddox's best friend asks him to shelter a stranded traveler in his home for the night. The romance takes hold over a very short time frame, but manages not to feel too insta, perhaps because each man is clearly in just the right place, and they fit so well.
Maddox has been holed up in his remote home, hiding from the world and a painful event in his past, keeping everyone at a distance except his dog, the little white Princess Sofia. But even as the book opens, with Maddox resisting the holiday spirit and the peopling that goes with it, one has the feeling of a man on the brink. Hiding has been his answer to pain, and yet he's starting to realize what he's missed as the world went on without him.
Enter Ravi, a good man and pediatric nurse who also ran from a painful past into doing vital work overseas. He's come back for the birth of his goddaughter, and returning to Canada shakes something loose in him. The escape he crafted for himself isn't such a good fit anymore, and the downsides to escape are starting to make themselves felt. He's not looking for a lover, but after a long time when he let his work consume him, being around a man who pushes all his buttons makes him think about his life. (And I appreciated that included recognizing when he'd hurt someone.)
I liked both these characters (and I have to say that cover picture is perfect for Maddox.) I'm not usually a fan of meddling family or friends, but in this case, there was ample excuse, as the people who loved these two men tried to shake them out of their isolation. The relationship grew in a natural way, despite the short time frame. And Sofia was great fun as a little dog with a big personality, and not too perfect to be true.
This could have been very angsty, with the back stories for these two men, but the overall feel managed to be more hopeful. I liked that Maddox, for all his size, was a softer character than one imagined at first sight. There's a super solid HEA epilogue, and I liked that therapy and counseling were part of the answer to moving on. That true love didn't heal Maddox's problems, but gave him someone at his side while he worked through them.
Maddox has been holed up in his remote home, hiding from the world and a painful event in his past, keeping everyone at a distance except his dog, the little white Princess Sofia. But even as the book opens, with Maddox resisting the holiday spirit and the peopling that goes with it, one has the feeling of a man on the brink. Hiding has been his answer to pain, and yet he's starting to realize what he's missed as the world went on without him.
Enter Ravi, a good man and pediatric nurse who also ran from a painful past into doing vital work overseas. He's come back for the birth of his goddaughter, and returning to Canada shakes something loose in him. The escape he crafted for himself isn't such a good fit anymore, and the downsides to escape are starting to make themselves felt. He's not looking for a lover, but after a long time when he let his work consume him, being around a man who pushes all his buttons makes him think about his life. (And I appreciated that included recognizing when he'd hurt someone.)
I liked both these characters (and I have to say that cover picture is perfect for Maddox.) I'm not usually a fan of meddling family or friends, but in this case, there was ample excuse, as the people who loved these two men tried to shake them out of their isolation. The relationship grew in a natural way, despite the short time frame. And Sofia was great fun as a little dog with a big personality, and not too perfect to be true.
This could have been very angsty, with the back stories for these two men, but the overall feel managed to be more hopeful. I liked that Maddox, for all his size, was a softer character than one imagined at first sight. There's a super solid HEA epilogue, and I liked that therapy and counseling were part of the answer to moving on. That true love didn't heal Maddox's problems, but gave him someone at his side while he worked through them.
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December 17, 2021This will be a DNF for me. It’s very full of depressing characters and loads of angst. I liked the writing and the story so I was putting up with that. However, I hate books where the twink is a top to a big butch man. I just don’t enjoy them. So, this is a case where it’s me and not the writing.
November 17, 2021
I liked the premise a lot more then the actual story. It was difficult getting attached and rooting for the couple. Felt like a lot of the hard topics wasn't well handled in this. Not the worst I've read but didn't give me the warm fuzzy Christmas feelings either
October 30, 2021
Gabbi Grey does it again with a 'can't put down' story. And, best of all, this one is a full-length novel!!
I received an ARC for an honest review but have also preordered this title so I have it in my permanent collection.
I received an ARC for an honest review but have also preordered this title so I have it in my permanent collection.
January 1, 2022
Angst galore but with really lovable main characters and a really cute happy ever after making it bearable.
December 7, 2021
I've enjoyed every one of Gabbi Grey's stories so far, and Ginger Snapping All the Way is a perfect addition to the Holiday Re-Read shelf! This author has a real gift for building chemistry between the main characters, and Maddox and Ravi are a pair who are destined to be together.
Both men have absolutely heartwrenching stories, and thoroughly deserve a happily ever after. The way they bring out the best in each other, and compliment the other... a beautifully done opposites attract pairing.
Michael Dean does a great job, as always. His voice is perfect for these guys - he infuses humor into the light moments, and builds the emotion during the heavier scenes. And nobody can narrate a hot and heavy romance scene better. Nicely done!
an audiobook copy of Ginger Snapping All the Way was provided for the purpose of my honest review
Both men have absolutely heartwrenching stories, and thoroughly deserve a happily ever after. The way they bring out the best in each other, and compliment the other... a beautifully done opposites attract pairing.
Michael Dean does a great job, as always. His voice is perfect for these guys - he infuses humor into the light moments, and builds the emotion during the heavier scenes. And nobody can narrate a hot and heavy romance scene better. Nicely done!
an audiobook copy of Ginger Snapping All the Way was provided for the purpose of my honest review
October 31, 2021
Gabbi Grey’s writing has a way of making me stay up way past my bedtime so I can read her books all in one delicious binge.
This story is full of heart, difficult situations, and hoooooooot sex.
I loved Mad and Ravi as a couple right from the beginning and was rooting for them immediately. Boy, did they make me work to get that HEA!
The epilogue is… SO MUCH YES. Fantastic. Great read!
This story is full of heart, difficult situations, and hoooooooot sex.
I loved Mad and Ravi as a couple right from the beginning and was rooting for them immediately. Boy, did they make me work to get that HEA!
The epilogue is… SO MUCH YES. Fantastic. Great read!
May 24, 2022
M/M
Mutual Hurt/comfort
Forced proximity/snowed in alone
Grumpy/sunshine
One spoiled princess puppy
Family healing
I was given an arc copy from the author and the GRR arc team for review.
I loved this book so much that I bought a copy right after I finished reading the arc.
Be advised there are triggers. This is an emotional read with tragic back stories on both of the main characters sides. Both men have been through great loss and have closed themselves off from dating and even from their families. It is a heart wrenching but also heartwarmingly sweet story and has some pretty steamy moments. I thought that it was well written. In fact this was the 4th book I read by this author and although I loved them all, I think this is my favorite. The characters were loveable and they had amazing chemistry. I will say that for a moment I wanted to hate on Ravi for his past behavior which was horrible but everyone grieves differently and he really redeems himself so I still really liked him. Without spoiloring I will say him being the baby's Godfather was an odd choice that I didn't find believable under the past circumstances.
The story only covers 3 days (I believe with all the flight cancelations), so it may feel like instalove to some. However, I truly felt like these 2 were instantly bonded by their mutual pain and understanding and helped each other heal their hearts, so it was believable to me. They needed each other. I didn't want it to end. However I felt that the story was complete and didn't leave anything out.
Michael Dean did a great job as usual. He has a great reading voice and I could listen to him read anything. He kept a good pace and expressed all the emotions wonderfully. He brought the story to life. He did different voices for the 2 MCs that were easily differentiated and he did the women and little kids voices really well. The only thing I couldn't help but wonder to myself throughout the book is that there were many mentions that Ravi is Indian but both the voice given to him didn't express this at all so that's my only small issue.
Mutual Hurt/comfort
Forced proximity/snowed in alone
Grumpy/sunshine
One spoiled princess puppy
Family healing
I was given an arc copy from the author and the GRR arc team for review.
I loved this book so much that I bought a copy right after I finished reading the arc.
Be advised there are triggers. This is an emotional read with tragic back stories on both of the main characters sides. Both men have been through great loss and have closed themselves off from dating and even from their families. It is a heart wrenching but also heartwarmingly sweet story and has some pretty steamy moments. I thought that it was well written. In fact this was the 4th book I read by this author and although I loved them all, I think this is my favorite. The characters were loveable and they had amazing chemistry. I will say that for a moment I wanted to hate on Ravi for his past behavior which was horrible but everyone grieves differently and he really redeems himself so I still really liked him. Without spoiloring I will say him being the baby's Godfather was an odd choice that I didn't find believable under the past circumstances.
The story only covers 3 days (I believe with all the flight cancelations), so it may feel like instalove to some. However, I truly felt like these 2 were instantly bonded by their mutual pain and understanding and helped each other heal their hearts, so it was believable to me. They needed each other. I didn't want it to end. However I felt that the story was complete and didn't leave anything out.
Michael Dean did a great job as usual. He has a great reading voice and I could listen to him read anything. He kept a good pace and expressed all the emotions wonderfully. He brought the story to life. He did different voices for the 2 MCs that were easily differentiated and he did the women and little kids voices really well. The only thing I couldn't help but wonder to myself throughout the book is that there were many mentions that Ravi is Indian but both the voice given to him didn't express this at all so that's my only small issue.
November 10, 2021
This is an amazing holiday romance with hurt/comfort themes and a cute dog who definitely rules the roost! This book was well written and I adored the two main characters, Maddox and Ravi and I fell in love with Sofia and her sassiness
Firstly, there are some trigger warnings for this book so make sure you read those if you are unsure. I loved how the relationship between Maddox and Ravi built and how they actually had to work at it. I’m all for an insta-love story but I loved how this went past that and showed what happens after that initial phase. The whole story for me was just really well written and you could get behind the characters and really understand their motivations based on their pasts. On the whole, a really well written story that I just adored.
Firstly, there are some trigger warnings for this book so make sure you read those if you are unsure. I loved how the relationship between Maddox and Ravi built and how they actually had to work at it. I’m all for an insta-love story but I loved how this went past that and showed what happens after that initial phase. The whole story for me was just really well written and you could get behind the characters and really understand their motivations based on their pasts. On the whole, a really well written story that I just adored.
November 8, 2021
Ginger Snapping All the Way: WOW! Great story, fantastic writing, and amazing characters. I really enjoyed Ravi and Maddox's story, it was a very emotional story. They helped each other throughout the story! They had a strong connection but they needed to come to peace with what happened in their past. I liked that they had a strong family background even though they cut their sisters out of their lives for a bit. They might have been to opposite people but that is what really worked for their relationship. The dialog was so strong. I loved this story! Great Job! Great title and it was perfect for the story!
October 30, 2021
Gabbi Grey is a rising star in her genre. She writes with emotional intelligence and deals with difficult issues sensitively.
August 1, 2022
Ginger Snapping All the Way is a book of missed opportunities. To be clear, I don't mean that in the "the characters have lots of opportunities and don't take them, thereby complicating their lives" kind of way. No, instead I mean "the book fails to live up to its potential." Ravi and Maddox are two people damaged by events in their past - events that are mentioned repeatedly yet never actually described until well into the book, making for a confusing reading experience. The way these characters react to said events... doesn't really make sense to me. For example, Maddox's trauma occurred on the job, but it was just the nature of the job. Why would he be dwelling on his trauma for five years after it happened? Ravi's situation makes even less sense. Other things that feature confusing reasoning: the way the two were set up; Ravi's sister's reaction towards specific events at the end of the book; Ravi's complete lack of feelings towards his ex-wife and friend... anyways. I don't want to rag too much on this book. I feel like the story was there but the details were lacking and/or needed some finessing. I would be willing to read more by this author but I don't think I'll go out of my way to do so.
October 26, 2024
3.5* Story
4* Narration by Michael Dean
I liked the premise and the characters (and the dog) and although I thought the mystery of Ravi's backstory was dragged out a bit too long, both his and Maddox's were emotional and sad.
They had decent chemistry, although not quite as much as I would have liked. Mostly though, ? I felt like I was missing something.
Two other things that might have something to do with my ambivalent feelings about some of the book: First, I went through what Ravi experienced including the fact that , so while I have compassion for Ravi, I'm glad he realized how he'd hurt people.
Second, I'm a certified Equine Specialist (ES) at an equine therapy center, and I wasn't thrilled about the way the book framed it as sort of an alternate, almost hippie, therapy. Equine facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) and Equine Partnered Play Therapy (EPPT)are legitimate forms of mental health therapy practiced by license therapists and psychologists all across the US. An ES is present for every EFP or EPPT session to insure the horse's welfare.
Michael Dean does a good job with the narration. I especially like how strong his character voices are, both male and female. He does employ some "upspeak/uptalk" (not dropping his voice at the end of sentences, leaving an unresolved feeling) and I find that distracting, so I average his narrations to a B.
4* Narration by Michael Dean
I liked the premise and the characters (and the dog) and although I thought the mystery of Ravi's backstory was dragged out a bit too long, both his and Maddox's were emotional and sad.
They had decent chemistry, although not quite as much as I would have liked. Mostly though, ? I felt like I was missing something.
Two other things that might have something to do with my ambivalent feelings about some of the book: First, I went through what Ravi experienced including the fact that , so while I have compassion for Ravi, I'm glad he realized how he'd hurt people.
Second, I'm a certified Equine Specialist (ES) at an equine therapy center, and I wasn't thrilled about the way the book framed it as sort of an alternate, almost hippie, therapy. Equine facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) and Equine Partnered Play Therapy (EPPT)are legitimate forms of mental health therapy practiced by license therapists and psychologists all across the US. An ES is present for every EFP or EPPT session to insure the horse's welfare.
Michael Dean does a good job with the narration. I especially like how strong his character voices are, both male and female. He does employ some "upspeak/uptalk" (not dropping his voice at the end of sentences, leaving an unresolved feeling) and I find that distracting, so I average his narrations to a B.
November 17, 2021
an audio review
Ginger Snapping All the Way is a beautifully written forced proximity, insta-love, emotional holiday story about Maddox, Ravi and a very spoiled dog. This story grabbed me from the very beginning and I didn't want it to end. I'd love to know more of their story. When Maddox agreed to do a favor for a friend and let said friend's girlfriend's brother stay with him because the brother's plane had mechanical problems and was forced to land before reaching its destination, he had no idea his entire world would change, for the better. Two tortured souls finding their way to each other, helping each other, and loving each other. This story had a twist I wasn't expecting and had me reaching for the tissues. I loved Maddox and Ravi together from the beginning. And I loved both their grand gestures. They really are better together than on their own. I definitely recommend this book, it's one to enjoy again and again.
Narrator Michael Dean does a fabulous job. He really has a special way of bringing these characters and story to life. Another book to add to my favorites.
Ginger Snapping All the Way is a beautifully written forced proximity, insta-love, emotional holiday story about Maddox, Ravi and a very spoiled dog. This story grabbed me from the very beginning and I didn't want it to end. I'd love to know more of their story. When Maddox agreed to do a favor for a friend and let said friend's girlfriend's brother stay with him because the brother's plane had mechanical problems and was forced to land before reaching its destination, he had no idea his entire world would change, for the better. Two tortured souls finding their way to each other, helping each other, and loving each other. This story had a twist I wasn't expecting and had me reaching for the tissues. I loved Maddox and Ravi together from the beginning. And I loved both their grand gestures. They really are better together than on their own. I definitely recommend this book, it's one to enjoy again and again.
Narrator Michael Dean does a fabulous job. He really has a special way of bringing these characters and story to life. Another book to add to my favorites.
November 17, 2021
This is the story of two lonely men,both dealing with deeply emotional pasts. Being snowbound together in Maddox's mountain cabin home they see the pain in each other and share their painful pasts. Their instant attraction quickly turns into a deeply connected relationship with a sizzling hot chemistry. Loves comes quickly for both men. The author does a beautiful job bringing all the feels in this emotionally heartfelt story and moves it fluidly with her detailed and descriptive writing. It's a beautiful Christmas love story and I loved reading it. Highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
November 13, 2021
I loved this Christmas whirlwind romance.
Maddox and Ravi were both such sweet souls who suffered horrible tragedies.
Both hiding from the world in their own ways but a storm brings them together.
As they're forced to spend close quarters with each other, desire and romance blooms between them.
They both also push each other's boundaries which forces them to confront their respective pasts and start the healing process that ultimately brings them together.
After a grand gesture because it is Christmas after all.
Maddox and Ravi were both such sweet souls who suffered horrible tragedies.
Both hiding from the world in their own ways but a storm brings them together.
As they're forced to spend close quarters with each other, desire and romance blooms between them.
They both also push each other's boundaries which forces them to confront their respective pasts and start the healing process that ultimately brings them together.
After a grand gesture because it is Christmas after all.
November 17, 2021
Sisters are the best! Maddox, is content with his life in the mountains. He is not a fan of Christmas, he avoids festivities when he can. He did his friend, Meg a favor, by offering lodging to her girlfriend, Namita's brother, Ravi. Ravi, was rushing home to be there for the birth of his god daughter.The men exchanged looks when they first met. The connection, clicked. Both men are dragging heavy baggage behind them that affects their day to day lives. They are loners avoiding commitment. they wear their pain like a coat. Being snowed in, forced a confrontation with emotions they were not ready for. This story is intense and emotionally pulling at heartstrings. The author lets you see these men. Will the men put down their baggage to see each other? The sisters are amazing. Nicely done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 17, 2021
Maddox is somewhat broken. He lives in a cabin in the mountains alone from anyone with the exception of his dog. When a friend calls him and asked him to do a favor, he agrees grumpily! Ravi is trying to get back home to Canada to be there for his goddaughter’s birth when he is stranded at the airport. Maddox rescues him grudgingly. Now they are stuck together with some serious chemistry and a connection that neither of them realizes until its almost too late. This was excellent!! I seriously adored Ravi and Maddox!! It was really well written, highly recommend.
November 17, 2021
I am so in love with Maddox and Ravi. I will admit a shed a few tears throughout the story because of all the pain from their pasts they needed to work through. The development of their story was heartbreaking at times, but won’t leave spoilers. They do however get their very happily ever after. I also found myself being so proud of each MC for all of the emotional (and some physical) trauma they overcame. I strongly recommend this book as it was a good comfort read.
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.
November 15, 2021
This is the first book I read by this author and I enjoyed it. This book is perfect for the Christmas season because there is a lot of snow, there is a Scrooge who has lost his Christmas feeling, a man who has lost hope in miracles and a doggy Princess. What else could you want?
It's true, Mad and Ravi are immediately attracted to each other. Still, I wouldn't define it as an instalove, but rather as two souls who recognized their similarities and their visceral need to find someone who understands the grief and unsolved issues each is dealing with without judging. Each faced a tragedy and developed a coping mechanism that unfortunately caused other people to suffer and be put aside. Thanks to their coming together, they face the consequences of their past decisions and learn to act differently in order to shape their future full of love, friendship, and family.
I think the following sentence taken from the book perfectly summarises the spirit of this tale: "Sometimes you slide into love because of familiarity, and other times it hits you like a freight train or a broken plane, and you find the one you're meant to be with."
It is a book potentially full of triggers depending on your personal history, but it is a story of hope that tragedy may be overcome.
This is my honest review of the ARC I received and read thanks to Gay Book Promotions.
It's true, Mad and Ravi are immediately attracted to each other. Still, I wouldn't define it as an instalove, but rather as two souls who recognized their similarities and their visceral need to find someone who understands the grief and unsolved issues each is dealing with without judging. Each faced a tragedy and developed a coping mechanism that unfortunately caused other people to suffer and be put aside. Thanks to their coming together, they face the consequences of their past decisions and learn to act differently in order to shape their future full of love, friendship, and family.
I think the following sentence taken from the book perfectly summarises the spirit of this tale: "Sometimes you slide into love because of familiarity, and other times it hits you like a freight train or a broken plane, and you find the one you're meant to be with."
It is a book potentially full of triggers depending on your personal history, but it is a story of hope that tragedy may be overcome.
This is my honest review of the ARC I received and read thanks to Gay Book Promotions.
November 17, 2021
This was an emotional Christmas read! Two men.. our big sad Ginger Maddox agrees to drive sweet nurse Ravi and they end up stranded together in his remote cabin. These two are both very insecure and scared of intimacy due to things that had happened to both of them in past. They can feel a kindred spirit in one another though! Still they are both very cautious as they grow close to one another. The story takes place over a short period of time so it has an instalove feel and this are quite a few steamy times between the two! I received an ARC of this book and recommend for those who really enjoy a holiday hurt comfort read where two wounds souls find happiness together.
May 3, 2022
4.5 stars
November 10, 2021
Maddox and Ravi are both hiding away from their pasts but come together when Maddox agrees to pick up Ravi from the airport, thinking it was only one night. The attraction starts off slowly, but as they get to know each other and share their secrets, they become closer despite their limited time. Along with their family and friends, Maddox and Ravi heal together. A wonderful story, one that I highly recommend!
December 28, 2021
Ginger Snapping All the Way, by Gabbi Grey, spreads a bit of holiday magic when Mother Nature provides a generous heaping of snow, combining one grumpy ginger lumberjack, an outwardly effervescent nurse and a sassy pooch with an attitude. By forcing this trio together, years of emotional baggage is unpacked, revealing that life is worth living with the one who absconds with your heart.
This review is based on the audiobook, narrated by Michael Dean, who does a first-rate job of animating these personalities. He puts a lot of energy into his narration, so much that you feel like a voyeur on the sidelines. With Ginger Snapping All the Way, this intensifies the heat during the drool-worthy intimate interludes.
Former search and rescue guru, turned grumpy ginger lumberjack, Maddox Baker, is living isolated in his mountain cabin with his snarky pooch, Princess Sofia. Events five years earlier left him with a chronic knee injury and unresolved emotional strain. Maddox is going through the motions, but stagnating. He’s bitter and remorseful, short-tempered and a bit of a recluse… a Scrooge.
Outwardly effervescent nurse, Ravi Laxamana, is on the run from a past that is too painful for him to confront. Two years ago, Ravi suffered a tragic loss and instead of dealing with the loss, ran to the Philippines to work with a children’s charity as a surgical nurse. The premature birth of his goddaughter forces him to make an expeditious trip home to Calgary, Canada where his past lies in wait.
Well, Calgary, Canada was the intended destination for Ravi, but due to airplane mechanical issues, he arrives in Abbotsford with nowhere to stay. That is, until Meg, Maddox’s friend, arranges for Maddox to brave the weather to retrieve Ravi, her girlfriend’s brother, from the airport. Maddox gives Ravi a place to stay for the night. Mother Nature has other plans and one night turns into several.
Forcing these two tortured soles together with no out for days is the work of divine intervention and a bit of Christmas magic. It starts out as they both recognize they harbor a pain which is slowly consuming them. Oddly enough, it is Maddox who shares his past first, while Ravi holds his tightly to his chest. Their histories are heartbreaking, that is a given, but the guilt they hold onto isn’t their fault.
Maddox and Ravi’s walls weaken through a series of shared moments, mishaps and physical pleasure. There is an innate sense that they both share a similar soul crushing pain which leaves them non-judgmental. Although this happens over the course of a few days, the fascinating part is that it doesn’t feel like instant love. It is more of a bonding that forges love, while their deep connection sneaks up on them.
I love how Maddox and Ravi had to work at their relationship in Ginger Snapping All the Way. They realized the need to correct the trajectory of their lives and acted. The fact that they each made a grand jester was so romantic and it was pure satisfaction to get a glimpse into their future.
This review is based on the audiobook, narrated by Michael Dean, who does a first-rate job of animating these personalities. He puts a lot of energy into his narration, so much that you feel like a voyeur on the sidelines. With Ginger Snapping All the Way, this intensifies the heat during the drool-worthy intimate interludes.
Former search and rescue guru, turned grumpy ginger lumberjack, Maddox Baker, is living isolated in his mountain cabin with his snarky pooch, Princess Sofia. Events five years earlier left him with a chronic knee injury and unresolved emotional strain. Maddox is going through the motions, but stagnating. He’s bitter and remorseful, short-tempered and a bit of a recluse… a Scrooge.
Outwardly effervescent nurse, Ravi Laxamana, is on the run from a past that is too painful for him to confront. Two years ago, Ravi suffered a tragic loss and instead of dealing with the loss, ran to the Philippines to work with a children’s charity as a surgical nurse. The premature birth of his goddaughter forces him to make an expeditious trip home to Calgary, Canada where his past lies in wait.
Well, Calgary, Canada was the intended destination for Ravi, but due to airplane mechanical issues, he arrives in Abbotsford with nowhere to stay. That is, until Meg, Maddox’s friend, arranges for Maddox to brave the weather to retrieve Ravi, her girlfriend’s brother, from the airport. Maddox gives Ravi a place to stay for the night. Mother Nature has other plans and one night turns into several.
Forcing these two tortured soles together with no out for days is the work of divine intervention and a bit of Christmas magic. It starts out as they both recognize they harbor a pain which is slowly consuming them. Oddly enough, it is Maddox who shares his past first, while Ravi holds his tightly to his chest. Their histories are heartbreaking, that is a given, but the guilt they hold onto isn’t their fault.
Maddox and Ravi’s walls weaken through a series of shared moments, mishaps and physical pleasure. There is an innate sense that they both share a similar soul crushing pain which leaves them non-judgmental. Although this happens over the course of a few days, the fascinating part is that it doesn’t feel like instant love. It is more of a bonding that forges love, while their deep connection sneaks up on them.
I love how Maddox and Ravi had to work at their relationship in Ginger Snapping All the Way. They realized the need to correct the trajectory of their lives and acted. The fact that they each made a grand jester was so romantic and it was pure satisfaction to get a glimpse into their future.
November 28, 2021
I just finished this and am not quite sure what I think. I... didn't enjoy it. But I also didn't DNF it, and honey, I will DNF in a heartbeat usually. I think I kept going because I liked the *idea* of the story, but the execution - or maybe the author's writing style? - just left me feeling super unfulfilled. I reached the end and had none of the happy, "aww" kind of satisfaction that I want out of a romance (and from a Christmas story).
This is my first time with this author, and I think, for me, she's a miss.
This is my first time with this author, and I think, for me, she's a miss.
December 8, 2021
3.5 Stars
Gabbi Grey’s Ginger Snapping All the Way follows the now familiar story line of two hurting, almost broken strangers (Maddox and Ravi) who are suddenly forced together in a mountain home during a blizzard. The plot is so familiar, in fact, that as I began reading I though this might be a book I’d read previously.
Vacillating between 3 and 4 stars, the final chapter, epilogue, and likely the holiday season, caused me to settle for 4.
As an aside, cover art can make or break a book choice for me. The cover by Cate Ashwood Designs for Ginger Snapping All the Way could not have been more prefect.
November 9, 2022
I’m reviewing the audio edition. This story started off with bit of comedy, grumpy guy sort of stuck with a favor for friend meets this great looking guy who he is attracted to. Being stuck in a cabin during a storm brings out the painful pasts for each. The attraction turns into more but there is a lot of emotional issues to face. While there are plenty of triggers there is also hope. I believe the narration by Michael Dean made the story so much true to life.
November 3, 2024
3.5 stars
December 1, 2021
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Up until now I have only read or listened to novellas by this author and I was excited to see what she could do with a full-length novel. To start I thought the title was clever. One of the main characters, Ravi, loves baking and makes some delicious ginger snap cookies, but with the other mc, Maddox, being an actual ginger (redhead) there is a play on words that I found amusing.
I’d say that this story stays close to the sweet romance format. Maddox is man who likes his privacy but a favor owed to a friend has him inviting a stranger into his house. He isn’t extremely gracious at first, but his physical attraction to Ravi, and some time spent getting to know him has him changing his tune. Ravi is a sweet and generous man who seems to be overcompensating for something in his past. Both men have secret hurts and while they do act on their mutual attraction, they are holding a part of themselves back.
After a few more delays in Ravi’s trip to visit his ex and his sister, the two men eventually come clean about everything. I definitely felt for them, but also, I felt like they were punishing themselves needlessly; neither one of them at fault. Still, though, Ravi works out of the country as a nurse most of the time, and has somewhere else to be at least for the time being. And Maddox likes his quiet life in his secluded cabin. It is a love story though so, of course things are bound to work out. Or at least they should…
When Maddox confesses his love for Ravi and a willingness to follow him wherever his work takes him, there is moment of hesitancy between the two. It felt a little abrupt to me. I found myself a little confused how things went off the rails, but if I think about it, I suppose it was jitters on Maddox’s part. After a past lover jilted him, he suddenly isn’t sure he can trust Ravi not to do the same. Also, he knows he needs to work on himself and has an appointment to see a counselor in just a few days. Despite my slight confusion, it is still a romance and the author definitely provides a happy ending and I loved the epilogue. The two men definitely do some growing and their families play a special part in their future.
This story does take place during the holidays, but it doesn’t feel limited to the holiday romance genre. The two men aren’t particularly religious and Maddox at least isn’t a big fan of Christmas at all. I feel like this story can be enjoyed all year round. Last but not least is the narration. I am a fan of Michael Dean. He emotes well and does a good job of bringing the story to life. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet romance.
9/10 Pots of Gold (90% Recommended) – Compares to 4.5/5 Stars
Up until now I have only read or listened to novellas by this author and I was excited to see what she could do with a full-length novel. To start I thought the title was clever. One of the main characters, Ravi, loves baking and makes some delicious ginger snap cookies, but with the other mc, Maddox, being an actual ginger (redhead) there is a play on words that I found amusing.
I’d say that this story stays close to the sweet romance format. Maddox is man who likes his privacy but a favor owed to a friend has him inviting a stranger into his house. He isn’t extremely gracious at first, but his physical attraction to Ravi, and some time spent getting to know him has him changing his tune. Ravi is a sweet and generous man who seems to be overcompensating for something in his past. Both men have secret hurts and while they do act on their mutual attraction, they are holding a part of themselves back.
After a few more delays in Ravi’s trip to visit his ex and his sister, the two men eventually come clean about everything. I definitely felt for them, but also, I felt like they were punishing themselves needlessly; neither one of them at fault. Still, though, Ravi works out of the country as a nurse most of the time, and has somewhere else to be at least for the time being. And Maddox likes his quiet life in his secluded cabin. It is a love story though so, of course things are bound to work out. Or at least they should…
When Maddox confesses his love for Ravi and a willingness to follow him wherever his work takes him, there is moment of hesitancy between the two. It felt a little abrupt to me. I found myself a little confused how things went off the rails, but if I think about it, I suppose it was jitters on Maddox’s part. After a past lover jilted him, he suddenly isn’t sure he can trust Ravi not to do the same. Also, he knows he needs to work on himself and has an appointment to see a counselor in just a few days. Despite my slight confusion, it is still a romance and the author definitely provides a happy ending and I loved the epilogue. The two men definitely do some growing and their families play a special part in their future.
This story does take place during the holidays, but it doesn’t feel limited to the holiday romance genre. The two men aren’t particularly religious and Maddox at least isn’t a big fan of Christmas at all. I feel like this story can be enjoyed all year round. Last but not least is the narration. I am a fan of Michael Dean. He emotes well and does a good job of bringing the story to life. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet romance.
9/10 Pots of Gold (90% Recommended) – Compares to 4.5/5 Stars
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November 29, 2021A Fabulously Moving & Heartfelt Story! Great Narration🎧
Ginger Snapping All the Way
By: Gabbi Grey
Narrated by: Michael Dean
Gabbi Grey pens another wonderful romance novel, the story not only grabbed my attention, but it grabbed and tugged on my heartstrings too. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to, connect with and care about. I adored the two lead characters, each one is broken in their own way and are constantly battling their inner demons. Maddox lives off the grid with his best friend, Lucy, his four-legged fur baby, he prefers to be away from people and civilization, only goes to town for supplies. A storm has blown in and his friend, Meg, calls asking him for a favor, to pick up her girlfriend’s brother who is stranded at the airport because of a cancelled flight. Not wanting company, especially someone he does not know, but he can not say no to Meg and he goes and picks him up. Ravi just returned from the Philippines, he is so not ready for the Canadian winter, never mind the storm, Maddox finds him huddling outside the airport trying to keep warm. He gets him in the truck but is not exactly warm and welcoming, but Ravi does not let that bother him, but Maddox manages to show him some kindness when he sees how cold Ravi is, so does Lucy. shoulders, Ravi hides it a little better than Maddox who is a grump but once these two get to know each other and open up it melts the walls of ice surrounding their broken hearts, the first step to healing and letting someone in. I loved how everything played out in this beautifully written and plotted story, there is a perfect balance of drama, heartfelt emotions, heavy ones and some light-hearted ones, and a wonderful, meant to be romance. It was great to watch these two let go of their grief and allow themselves to live again and love again, too. Gabbi Grey, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧 📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Michael Dean is a talented narrator and a versatile voice artist. He does an awesome job bringing these characters to life, giving each their own distinct voice and personality, making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. I love how he takes each role and makes it his own, sounding believable in every role he played and just as I pictured the character to sound. He set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and projected them into his performance. Michael Dean is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen.
Thank you GRR
Ginger Snapping All the Way
By: Gabbi Grey
Narrated by: Michael Dean
Gabbi Grey pens another wonderful romance novel, the story not only grabbed my attention, but it grabbed and tugged on my heartstrings too. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to, connect with and care about. I adored the two lead characters, each one is broken in their own way and are constantly battling their inner demons. Maddox lives off the grid with his best friend, Lucy, his four-legged fur baby, he prefers to be away from people and civilization, only goes to town for supplies. A storm has blown in and his friend, Meg, calls asking him for a favor, to pick up her girlfriend’s brother who is stranded at the airport because of a cancelled flight. Not wanting company, especially someone he does not know, but he can not say no to Meg and he goes and picks him up. Ravi just returned from the Philippines, he is so not ready for the Canadian winter, never mind the storm, Maddox finds him huddling outside the airport trying to keep warm. He gets him in the truck but is not exactly warm and welcoming, but Ravi does not let that bother him, but Maddox manages to show him some kindness when he sees how cold Ravi is, so does Lucy. shoulders, Ravi hides it a little better than Maddox who is a grump but once these two get to know each other and open up it melts the walls of ice surrounding their broken hearts, the first step to healing and letting someone in. I loved how everything played out in this beautifully written and plotted story, there is a perfect balance of drama, heartfelt emotions, heavy ones and some light-hearted ones, and a wonderful, meant to be romance. It was great to watch these two let go of their grief and allow themselves to live again and love again, too. Gabbi Grey, thank you for another amazing story and emotional rollercoaster ride.
🎧 📚🎧 And for the fabulous narration, Michael Dean is a talented narrator and a versatile voice artist. He does an awesome job bringing these characters to life, giving each their own distinct voice and personality, making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. I love how he takes each role and makes it his own, sounding believable in every role he played and just as I pictured the character to sound. He set the perfect tone for the story, captured all the characters’ emotions and projected them into his performance. Michael Dean is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another great listen.
Thank you GRR
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