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Unwrapping Hank #1
Unwrapping Hank
Sloane loves a good mystery. He grew up as the son of two psychiatrists, so he finds most people tediously easy to figure out. He finds his way to Pennsylvania State University, longing for a rural experience, and ends up being lured into joining a frat by Micah Springfield, the hippest guy on campus.
Nothing in Sloane’s classes is as intriguing as Hank Springfield, Micah’s brother and fellow frat house member. Hank looks like a tough guy—big muscles, tatts, and a beard—but his eyes are soft and sweet. He acts dumb, but he’s a philosophy major. He’s presumably straight, but then why does Sloane feel such crazy chemistry whenever Hank is around? And why does Hank hate Sloane so much?
When Sloane ends up stuck on campus over Christmas, Micah invites him to spend the holidays at their family farm in Amish country. It’s a chance to experience a true Americana Christmas--and further investigate the mystery that is Hank Springfield. Can Sloane unlock the secrets of this family and unwrap the heart hidden inside the beefcake?
Nothing in Sloane’s classes is as intriguing as Hank Springfield, Micah’s brother and fellow frat house member. Hank looks like a tough guy—big muscles, tatts, and a beard—but his eyes are soft and sweet. He acts dumb, but he’s a philosophy major. He’s presumably straight, but then why does Sloane feel such crazy chemistry whenever Hank is around? And why does Hank hate Sloane so much?
When Sloane ends up stuck on campus over Christmas, Micah invites him to spend the holidays at their family farm in Amish country. It’s a chance to experience a true Americana Christmas--and further investigate the mystery that is Hank Springfield. Can Sloane unlock the secrets of this family and unwrap the heart hidden inside the beefcake?
138 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2014
67 people are currently reading
1511 people want to read
About the author
Eli Easton
83 books2,787 followersHaving been, at various times and under different names, a minister’s daughter, a computer programmer, the author of paranormal mysteries, a game designer, an organic farmer, an avid hiker, and a profound sleeper, Eli is happily embarking on yet another incarnation as a m/m romance author.
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here:
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 720 reviews
November 26, 2014
4 fun stars. Review completed November 20, 2014
I'm sorry but I liked the unicorn gif more. It's prettier.
"Sure, uh…There was a guy in the kitchen…Hank."
Micah stopped and looked at me, smiling shyly. "Yeah?" What'd you think?"
What'd I think?
"He seemed really…domesticated. You know, for a white supremacist."
I was being perhaps a wee bit judgmental, but Micah laughed, a big booming laugh that made everyone turn to see what was so funny.
"You're going to drive me crazy, aren't you," Hank said.
"Crazy is an ambiguous term with no clinical meaning, and it's insulting to mental health patients. Can you be more specific?"
I want to unwrap aman present. Mission accomplished. Hank owns that motherfucker now.
You can't beat Christmas time to spread some love. Hot (gay) guys and cute dogs galore!
I had a little chat with Santa and believe it or not but he says everyone should unwrap a Hank because it will cheer you up and leave you smiling goofily all day long. Do you see the hot dude at the top of my review? Yeah, up there…nope, it's not the sweaty guy who looks pissed and ready to hit anyone who dares to get in his way…higher…no, not the dogs, you dorks...a little higher. Bingo. That's him. My Hank. Friendly advice, just ignore his frown. Poor Hank had a hard time figuring out for which team he should play but now he nailed it…er…him. Whatever. Just so you know, I got dibs on my sexy Hank, so I'd say we need to clone him. There's a deadline, though. I'll take orders till December 18th in order to guarantee you a fresh and crunchy delivery before Christmas Eve. *Baba pokes Hank in the ribs* Stop scowling at me, Hanky boy or you know what's going to happen. I'll tell everybody your real name. *cheeky grin* See? Works wonders. *pets Hank on his bearded jaw* Anyway, there's nothing like the original, though, and it goes without saying that he stays with me.
"Don't come in, Dad!" Hank said.
"Believe me, I won't," Karma said with a vocal shiver. "Just…I have, um, condoms and lube." And in a mutter, "Your mother made me."
I'll admit it was a sweet read but it's the kind of sweet I can approve of because this story oozed a fuck-ton of feel good vibes and that's exactly what a Christmas story should be all about. Also, I'm in the mood where sweet is needed. Dealing with a huge work load and digesting new work processes don't lift my spirit at the moment. So this quick and fun read came in darn handy because I enjoyed every minute of it. Unwrapping a hot guy can be very entertaining, after all. Again, it might have been a little bit too perfect to be real but it was fine by me. I'm usually a reader who doesn't enjoy YA stories. A few authors, however, manage to do it right and that's why I enjoy the heck out of a few YA/NA books. I'm happy to say that Eli Easton is one of those lucky writers. I loved to see and unwrap so many, many layers of Hank. A big bear of a man with an intellectual mind, sporting a ripped and tattooed body, topped off with warm eyes and gentle hands. Hank is a heartwarming, walking contradiction. BTW, I loved all three guys. Hank, Sloane and Micah.
"Be careful. You know what they say: once you go dick, that's the end of the chicks."
"They don't say that."
"I say it, man, and I'm a philosopher. So it counts."
A shout out to the author
I'd love to read Micah's story and I wouldn't mind revisiting Hank and Sloane a few years down their merry road either. Maybe Sloane will be working in rural county being manipulated by a bunch of adorable dogs.
Bottom line, Unwrapping Hank is the perfect little treat to savor during a contemplative season. Snarky and funny dialogue and very likable characters are the ingredients to bake your own delicious Christmas cookies. Use your imagination.
Recommended read.
I'm sorry but I liked the unicorn gif more. It's prettier.
"Sure, uh…There was a guy in the kitchen…Hank."
Micah stopped and looked at me, smiling shyly. "Yeah?" What'd you think?"
What'd I think?
"He seemed really…domesticated. You know, for a white supremacist."
I was being perhaps a wee bit judgmental, but Micah laughed, a big booming laugh that made everyone turn to see what was so funny.
"You're going to drive me crazy, aren't you," Hank said.
"Crazy is an ambiguous term with no clinical meaning, and it's insulting to mental health patients. Can you be more specific?"
I want to unwrap a
You can't beat Christmas time to spread some love. Hot (gay) guys and cute dogs galore!
I had a little chat with Santa and believe it or not but he says everyone should unwrap a Hank because it will cheer you up and leave you smiling goofily all day long. Do you see the hot dude at the top of my review? Yeah, up there…nope, it's not the sweaty guy who looks pissed and ready to hit anyone who dares to get in his way…higher…no, not the dogs, you dorks...a little higher. Bingo. That's him. My Hank. Friendly advice, just ignore his frown. Poor Hank had a hard time figuring out for which team he should play but now he nailed it…er…him. Whatever. Just so you know, I got dibs on my sexy Hank, so I'd say we need to clone him. There's a deadline, though. I'll take orders till December 18th in order to guarantee you a fresh and crunchy delivery before Christmas Eve. *Baba pokes Hank in the ribs* Stop scowling at me, Hanky boy or you know what's going to happen. I'll tell everybody your real name. *cheeky grin* See? Works wonders. *pets Hank on his bearded jaw* Anyway, there's nothing like the original, though, and it goes without saying that he stays with me.
"Don't come in, Dad!" Hank said.
"Believe me, I won't," Karma said with a vocal shiver. "Just…I have, um, condoms and lube." And in a mutter, "Your mother made me."
I'll admit it was a sweet read but it's the kind of sweet I can approve of because this story oozed a fuck-ton of feel good vibes and that's exactly what a Christmas story should be all about. Also, I'm in the mood where sweet is needed. Dealing with a huge work load and digesting new work processes don't lift my spirit at the moment. So this quick and fun read came in darn handy because I enjoyed every minute of it. Unwrapping a hot guy can be very entertaining, after all. Again, it might have been a little bit too perfect to be real but it was fine by me. I'm usually a reader who doesn't enjoy YA stories. A few authors, however, manage to do it right and that's why I enjoy the heck out of a few YA/NA books. I'm happy to say that Eli Easton is one of those lucky writers. I loved to see and unwrap so many, many layers of Hank. A big bear of a man with an intellectual mind, sporting a ripped and tattooed body, topped off with warm eyes and gentle hands. Hank is a heartwarming, walking contradiction. BTW, I loved all three guys. Hank, Sloane and Micah.
"Be careful. You know what they say: once you go dick, that's the end of the chicks."
"They don't say that."
"I say it, man, and I'm a philosopher. So it counts."
A shout out to the author
I'd love to read Micah's story and I wouldn't mind revisiting Hank and Sloane a few years down their merry road either. Maybe Sloane will be working in rural county being manipulated by a bunch of adorable dogs.
Bottom line, Unwrapping Hank is the perfect little treat to savor during a contemplative season. Snarky and funny dialogue and very likable characters are the ingredients to bake your own delicious Christmas cookies. Use your imagination.
Recommended read.
December 14, 2014
Why do I bother reading books from other authors when Eli Easton just seems to knock it out of the park every single time!?
I always know when I'm loving a book when my heart gets a little vice-like feeling. You know what I mean. That squishy, choked up feeling that you get when you read something that really touches you. This book squeezed my heart and I effing loved it!
This was another new adult, opposites attract story from one of my most reliable authors. It was sweetly holiday, totally believable, and really emotional for only 138 superbly written pages.
And though there is only one sex scene, let me tell you, it is worth the wait! Damn, boy! I know what I'm going to be thinking about tonight! Guy, you know me. Can I ever resist a ? HELLS NO!
This was warm chocolate chip pancakes good. This was sleeping in on a rainy day good. This was Eli Easton good!
Don't miss out on this one. It is simply delectable.
I always know when I'm loving a book when my heart gets a little vice-like feeling. You know what I mean. That squishy, choked up feeling that you get when you read something that really touches you. This book squeezed my heart and I effing loved it!
This was another new adult, opposites attract story from one of my most reliable authors. It was sweetly holiday, totally believable, and really emotional for only 138 superbly written pages.
And though there is only one sex scene, let me tell you, it is worth the wait! Damn, boy! I know what I'm going to be thinking about tonight! Guy, you know me. Can I ever resist a ? HELLS NO!
This was warm chocolate chip pancakes good. This was sleeping in on a rainy day good. This was Eli Easton good!
Don't miss out on this one. It is simply delectable.
December 7, 2014
Before reading
: Look at me. Willingly adding a Christmas jizz story to my TBR.
I've seen the Easton light, it's filled with peppermint sticks.
Whoa. *smh*
After reading :
Why thou shalt not sleep on Eli Easton's Santa Jizz: A Reflection by SRAL
It's a well known fact, Santa Jizz/Christmas Jizz/Fucking Holiday Sugar stories, they are not my deal. I'll own and will admit it. While others find Christmas joy in reading about that winter romance hullabaloo...I just can't. I'll own my Grinch-iness.
I don't mind others reading it but I have to sift though the metric tons of gingerbread-sticky gooeyness to find tolerable reads. Too much peppermint fluff and...*smh* I can't gorge on them or it'll make me crabby. Again, my deal, not yours. I'm not out there pushing down carolers or giving mall Santa Clauses the bird when I'm in public or anything. In fact, if you came to me in a Santa Jizz sweater, extolling the joy of St. Nick, I'd listen. (Or pretend to - my pretend face is fucking flawless after many years)
So last year, a bit of the Jizzmas spirit came in my throat in the form of Blame It On the Mistletoe. I swallowed that load and did not spit at any point in time.
So cut to this year, me being in a smidge of a book slump...after a bunch of mediocre reads, I need my next book to be a slam dunk. So after a few false starts, I remembered "Unwrapping Hank". So my frown got turned upside down without me even realizing.
Dudes and Dudettes, I'm reading and I'm breezing thorugh this story...my cheeks hurt...from grinning like a loon at these characters. Hank and his macho closet, Micah and sexiness (like without him having to try, I'm intrigued by him) and of course, Sloane. Oh Sloane, you're adorable without being sticky sweet, thoughtful while still not coming across older than your age. He's a great main character. Damn so is Hank.
*happy sigh*
See, Sloane is the only child of two psychologists, who has lived abroad for some years and he wants some stable in his life...even if his parents still like to live in the new and exciting. So he joins a frat...and meets the Springfield brothers, Micah and Hank. Micah is a hipster without buying into the hype (I loathe hipsters who try too hard) and Hank...from the name Hank (which is such a straight boy name - I love it) you can tell Hank is trying to be an anti-Micah. He's a muscle head (but he's actually brilliant), he tries to be everything he thought of as heterosexual to hide his true self.
Gah, the pacing of the story fits these two so well. I could go either way with a "gay for you/ out for you", the best way for it to work is to give the questioning MC time to realize their true feelings themselves, let their reactions be natural instead of forced. And this story does that AND more.
No PWP, no rushed erotica to be found in here. The author included her favorite things in here and created an endearing Christmas novella without SHOVING AN UNBELIEVABLE SANTA SEMEN COATED PEPPERMINT STICK DOWN THE GULLET. (Because those things are impossibly enormous to try to deep throat)
*clears throat*
I was so disappointed at the end. Not because it finished off weakly or things were unresolved. I was disappointed at seeing: The End. I would have continued reading about this pair for days! They're funny, real and sexy. They are touching and relatable.
And another reason why it rocks?
So if you don't like heavy Jizzmas sugar or want to read a well written new adult novella with an "out for you" theme, don't miss this.
I've seen the Easton light, it's filled with peppermint sticks.
Whoa. *smh*
After reading :
Why thou shalt not sleep on Eli Easton's Santa Jizz: A Reflection by SRAL
It's a well known fact, Santa Jizz/Christmas Jizz/Fucking Holiday Sugar stories, they are not my deal. I'll own and will admit it. While others find Christmas joy in reading about that winter romance hullabaloo...I just can't. I'll own my Grinch-iness.
I don't mind others reading it but I have to sift though the metric tons of gingerbread-sticky gooeyness to find tolerable reads. Too much peppermint fluff and...*smh* I can't gorge on them or it'll make me crabby. Again, my deal, not yours. I'm not out there pushing down carolers or giving mall Santa Clauses the bird when I'm in public or anything. In fact, if you came to me in a Santa Jizz sweater, extolling the joy of St. Nick, I'd listen. (Or pretend to - my pretend face is fucking flawless after many years)
So last year, a bit of the Jizzmas spirit came in my throat in the form of Blame It On the Mistletoe. I swallowed that load and did not spit at any point in time.
So cut to this year, me being in a smidge of a book slump...after a bunch of mediocre reads, I need my next book to be a slam dunk. So after a few false starts, I remembered "Unwrapping Hank". So my frown got turned upside down without me even realizing.
Dudes and Dudettes, I'm reading and I'm breezing thorugh this story...my cheeks hurt...from grinning like a loon at these characters. Hank and his macho closet, Micah and sexiness (like without him having to try, I'm intrigued by him) and of course, Sloane. Oh Sloane, you're adorable without being sticky sweet, thoughtful while still not coming across older than your age. He's a great main character. Damn so is Hank.
*happy sigh*
See, Sloane is the only child of two psychologists, who has lived abroad for some years and he wants some stable in his life...even if his parents still like to live in the new and exciting. So he joins a frat...and meets the Springfield brothers, Micah and Hank. Micah is a hipster without buying into the hype (I loathe hipsters who try too hard) and Hank...from the name Hank (which is such a straight boy name - I love it) you can tell Hank is trying to be an anti-Micah. He's a muscle head (but he's actually brilliant), he tries to be everything he thought of as heterosexual to hide his true self.
Gah, the pacing of the story fits these two so well. I could go either way with a "gay for you/ out for you", the best way for it to work is to give the questioning MC time to realize their true feelings themselves, let their reactions be natural instead of forced. And this story does that AND more.
No PWP, no rushed erotica to be found in here. The author included her favorite things in here and created an endearing Christmas novella without SHOVING AN UNBELIEVABLE SANTA SEMEN COATED PEPPERMINT STICK DOWN THE GULLET. (Because those things are impossibly enormous to try to deep throat)
*clears throat*
I was so disappointed at the end. Not because it finished off weakly or things were unresolved. I was disappointed at seeing: The End. I would have continued reading about this pair for days! They're funny, real and sexy. They are touching and relatable.
And another reason why it rocks?
So if you don't like heavy Jizzmas sugar or want to read a well written new adult novella with an "out for you" theme, don't miss this.
January 30, 2015
~ 4.5 TOTES ADORBS stars~
Puppies and kittens have nothing on this story!
Sophisticated, openly gay Sloane gets paired with the beefy Hank to put together their frat's Christmas party. Sloane finds Hank interesting. And sexy as sin. Hank is a mystery Sloane wants to unwrap (in more ways than one).
But Hank is intimidated by Sloane. Sloane makes him feel things he doesn't want to feel. So he avoids Sloane, pushes him away.
After Sloane's parents stand him up for the holidays, the guys, along with Hank's brother Micah, spend the Christmas at Hank and Micah's classic Americana farm.
CUTENESS ABOUNDS!
There are Amish pies, pushy cows, hay stacks, liberal hippie parent, and dogs!
This story is all about growing up and growing into your own skin. It's about acceptance, family, being young and confused and a little scared. It's about figuring shit out on your own, with a little nudge from your brother and the very sexy boy who joined your fraternity.
Sloane and Hank felt like real college boys. They were smart, but they stumbled. They wanted, but were afraid to want. I really liked Micah's character too; he was perceptive and a very good brother.
The first-person dual POV worked very well here. Each MC had a distinct voice (I certainly noticed that Hank became more introspective as the story progressed). The banter between Hank and Sloane was hilarious. Really, the entire story was FUNNY, so very funny.
There was very little steam here, but the slow burn, the awareness, was exactly right.
And the cuddles in that barn could have burned the place down, baby!
Puppies and kittens have nothing on this story!
Sophisticated, openly gay Sloane gets paired with the beefy Hank to put together their frat's Christmas party. Sloane finds Hank interesting. And sexy as sin. Hank is a mystery Sloane wants to unwrap (in more ways than one).
But Hank is intimidated by Sloane. Sloane makes him feel things he doesn't want to feel. So he avoids Sloane, pushes him away.
After Sloane's parents stand him up for the holidays, the guys, along with Hank's brother Micah, spend the Christmas at Hank and Micah's classic Americana farm.
CUTENESS ABOUNDS!
There are Amish pies, pushy cows, hay stacks, liberal hippie parent, and dogs!
This story is all about growing up and growing into your own skin. It's about acceptance, family, being young and confused and a little scared. It's about figuring shit out on your own, with a little nudge from your brother and the very sexy boy who joined your fraternity.
Sloane and Hank felt like real college boys. They were smart, but they stumbled. They wanted, but were afraid to want. I really liked Micah's character too; he was perceptive and a very good brother.
The first-person dual POV worked very well here. Each MC had a distinct voice (I certainly noticed that Hank became more introspective as the story progressed). The banter between Hank and Sloane was hilarious. Really, the entire story was FUNNY, so very funny.
There was very little steam here, but the slow burn, the awareness, was exactly right.
And the cuddles in that barn could have burned the place down, baby!
December 26, 2016
At 18, Sloane is a freshman veterinary student who has recently been encouraged to join a fraternity by its uber-cool president, Micah.
And after growing up with world-traveling psychologist parents, Sloane finally feels like he's somewhere that he truly belongs.
Until he meets Micah's brother, Hank, who is a philosophy student and also in the frat.
Hank is a big, muscley, tattooed guy, but also a bit of an enigma. One which Sloane, loving a good mystery, must solve -- no matter how many times he tries to let that 'straight' sleeping dog lie.
What I absolutely LOVED about Sloane is that he's a bit fearless. He'll walk right up to a bear and poke it. Then poke it again, until he gets what he wants.
But the bear in this instance is gruff, loner Hank. Hank is not amused.
But as the story progresses, Hank and Sloane become frenemies, both giving as good as they get, then lines on both sides begin to blur feeling-wise, which scares Hank to death.
Watching Sloane toy with Hank was a thing of beauty, akin to watching a cat play with a mouse.
Only in this game, the cat plays with his mouse until it's literally *begging* to be eaten. And. Hard.
Meee-Motherfucking-Yowww!
I. Loved. That. Shit.
The book is insanely slow-burn, but the sexy scene in the barn more than makes up for the built-up anticipation.
The scene is smoking hot, with a bit of a flip that I didn't see coming at all.
And the guys do get their HFN, with Hank very firmly staking his claim on Sloane in a very public way.
So I highly recommend this one, with an insanely solid 4.5 *A-Bottom-Is-Born* stars.
---------------------------------------------
This was my own copy of the book and was not provided by the publisher or author.
November 4, 2014
I recently had the great thrill of beta-reading this little gem. I loved every word.
The plot concerns Sloane, a college student, and his attempts to understand Hank, a hunky fraternity brother who looks like a muscle-head but turns out to be much more. Sloane and Hank are forced together by Hank's brother, Micah.
The boys end up spending Christmas together and then things get sexy, sweet, and adorably romantic. This is low-angst, but there are some great emotional scenes sprinkled here and there. This book is a perfect example of why I love Eli Easton.
Recommended to anyone looking for some early holiday cheer.
The plot concerns Sloane, a college student, and his attempts to understand Hank, a hunky fraternity brother who looks like a muscle-head but turns out to be much more. Sloane and Hank are forced together by Hank's brother, Micah.
The boys end up spending Christmas together and then things get sexy, sweet, and adorably romantic. This is low-angst, but there are some great emotional scenes sprinkled here and there. This book is a perfect example of why I love Eli Easton.
Recommended to anyone looking for some early holiday cheer.
December 22, 2015
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: December 21, 2015
4 stars
Tristan Wright is my favorite narrator and he matches perfectly with Eli Easton's writing. I LOVED , and I really really enjoyed Unwrapping Hank as well. Tristan Wright has really contemporary voice that lends well to new adult storytelling.
When I first read the ebook last year, I think I had a hard time getting over the "Hank" on the cover. I'm not a big fan of that model for the character. But, the narrator in the audiobook allowed me to see him differently. And I really really liked this version.
And since it's written in 1st person, I think the narrator nailed the character of Sloane perfectly!
If you're in the mood to listen to a fun holiday story, definitely give this one a go.
ORIGINAL REVIEW: November 15, 2014
4 stars
Eli Easton just gets me. I mean…she just knows what I want to read. And she writes it just for me (ok, I’m sounding delusional…but this is how I FEEEEEL!)
I think her books are such a great mix of humor and quirkiness, HEART, stories that draw you in but don’t DEVOUR you so that you’re ruined (time and place for those kinds of books…)…and I feel so satisfied at the end.
Blame it on the Mistletoe was one of my FAVORITE holiday reads last year so I was really excited to read Unwrapping Hank!
Loved it!
Sloane is a new college freshman rushing a fraternity. He has a mild crush on Micah, the fraternity president and then a bigger crush on Hank, the fraternity musclehead. Turns out Hank is a real enigma…all that working out, but is there more to this guy? One thing is clear, he does not like Sloane. Or does he?
I love Sloane. I love Hank (yes, I know, I know…he’s bristly and a pain-in-the-ass, but I loved him). I love Micah. I love the parents (well, not Sloane’s parents…grrrr). I love the dogs. I love the Amish. I loved it all.
Christmas at the Springfield family farm in Pennsylvania was idyllic. I wanted to be there! I typically DON’T love anything resembling a love triangle…but that was only a ghost of a possibility here. And it wasn’t off-putting in any way.
Sloane is a really strong and likable character…sure of himself, but not arrogant. And the Springfield family warmed my heart with their love and loyalty to each other.
Holiday books are an easy sell for me: make me feel warm fuzzies and throw in some mistletoe and I’m golden. This book did both! ☺
My first holiday read of 2014…and already set the bar in the “favorites” zone.
January 20, 2018
► I'm a horrible person. No, now, don't be polite and disagree with me on principle. I swear, I really am.
*whispers* I have pet peeves.
✘ When parents are playing Cupid with their son and go as far as bringing him lube and condoms while he's off with his - possible - love interest in a barn - I KID YOU NOT - it turns me off completely. I mean, ew, is that supposed to be cute?
Honestly? I liked Hank's family until they all started to be so freaking pushy. But that's just me. And don't get me started about Micah, his brother. Why am I supposed to like him stays a mystery for me.
✘ When a confused but straight guy accepts the fact that he's gay, kisses, has sex with a man, comes out publicly, in the span of a day (I'm hardly exaggerating), I have a hard time suspending my disbelief.
✘ Oh, and when people tell me that their favorite French novelist is Guillaume Musso, I tear up a little.
I know, I know, how mean of me, blablabla, but I can't help, it's a visceral reaction. Sloane's parents would have an explanation for my overreacting, I'm sure.
That's why you shouldn't listen to me. I am not fair.
*goes hide in shame*
November 14, 2018
Re-listen 11/14/18; bumping it up to 4.5 Stars
I'm not sure what it is about Eli Easton's writes but she can suckerpunch me sometimes. This was and is one of those times.
My original review was kind of stupid so I've deleted it excepting the pic of Grinchy who is still TOTES ADORBZ!
Grinch became totally enamored with Sloane over the Christmas holidays at the Springfield farm. As a matter of fact, Sloane got a little attached himself. Who wouldn't? Wook at his face! Yes, baby talk to pictures of dogs. *shrugs* I own it at least.
This is such a sweet coming of age story that has characters that you root for and an emotionality to sneaks up on you. It's not overly reliant on the whole "miracle of Christmas" thing which I appreciate since I, myself, am kind of a grinch when it comes to "the holiday spirit". Can't we just be good to each other year round? Why does there have to be lights and a tree involved?
I digress.
Hank and Sloane are thrown together by Hank's older brother to come up with a theme for their frat's holiday party. Hank is standoffish towards Sloane and immediately takes a dislike to him. But the more time we spend inside Hank's head it becomes apparent that Hank is hiding from himself.
Sloane is temptation personified and the more they're around each other, discovering how much they have in common, the harder it becomes for Hank to deny what's happening.
Sloane is hipster adjacent. He's worldly thanks to his wanderlusting parents but there's a loneliness about him that's borne of not having a "home" to call his own. Plus his parents a bit flighty and he's an only child.
Whereas Hank's family is straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting with the cute dogs, humane raising of animals, kombucha making, living in the same town since forever and just... salt of the earth kind of people.
I really loved Hank who's a tattooed lumbersexual virgin and doesn't have a clue who he is or what he wants but through these few weeks of knowing Sloane and with some encouragement and the support of his family he gets a little closer to the answer. He's been fumbling around since his mother almost died of cancer when he was a boy.
That one event changed him in ways I don't think he fully understands, but the way Easton integrated that event into his character is what makes me like her writing so much.
The tension between Hank and Sloane builds along with the evolution of their relationship. The benefit of having both their perspectives helped that along greatly. Easton is always good for at least one sexy scene and she brought the goods here.
Honestly, I think this story is great regardless of the holiday twist or setting, but I surely did enjoy this pastoral Pennsylvania setting with the family farm, Hank and Micah's parents, the dogs, the pies but especially Sloane and Lilith's Christmas present to him.
As for the narration, it was good. Tristan Wright made Hank sound like Keanu Reeves which was sort of... jarring but he differentiated the voices and sold the story well enough so I'm not opposed to listening to him again.
Whether you read or listen to this story I'd recommend it to NA, enemies to lovers, hurt/comfort lite or contemporary romance fans.
I'm not sure what it is about Eli Easton's writes but she can suckerpunch me sometimes. This was and is one of those times.
My original review was kind of stupid so I've deleted it excepting the pic of Grinchy who is still TOTES ADORBZ!
Grinch became totally enamored with Sloane over the Christmas holidays at the Springfield farm. As a matter of fact, Sloane got a little attached himself. Who wouldn't? Wook at his face! Yes, baby talk to pictures of dogs. *shrugs* I own it at least.
This is such a sweet coming of age story that has characters that you root for and an emotionality to sneaks up on you. It's not overly reliant on the whole "miracle of Christmas" thing which I appreciate since I, myself, am kind of a grinch when it comes to "the holiday spirit". Can't we just be good to each other year round? Why does there have to be lights and a tree involved?
I digress.
Hank and Sloane are thrown together by Hank's older brother to come up with a theme for their frat's holiday party. Hank is standoffish towards Sloane and immediately takes a dislike to him. But the more time we spend inside Hank's head it becomes apparent that Hank is hiding from himself.
Sloane is temptation personified and the more they're around each other, discovering how much they have in common, the harder it becomes for Hank to deny what's happening.
Sloane is hipster adjacent. He's worldly thanks to his wanderlusting parents but there's a loneliness about him that's borne of not having a "home" to call his own. Plus his parents a bit flighty and he's an only child.
Whereas Hank's family is straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting with the cute dogs, humane raising of animals, kombucha making, living in the same town since forever and just... salt of the earth kind of people.
I really loved Hank who's a tattooed lumbersexual virgin and doesn't have a clue who he is or what he wants but through these few weeks of knowing Sloane and with some encouragement and the support of his family he gets a little closer to the answer. He's been fumbling around since his mother almost died of cancer when he was a boy.
That one event changed him in ways I don't think he fully understands, but the way Easton integrated that event into his character is what makes me like her writing so much.
The tension between Hank and Sloane builds along with the evolution of their relationship. The benefit of having both their perspectives helped that along greatly. Easton is always good for at least one sexy scene and she brought the goods here.
Honestly, I think this story is great regardless of the holiday twist or setting, but I surely did enjoy this pastoral Pennsylvania setting with the family farm, Hank and Micah's parents, the dogs, the pies but especially Sloane and Lilith's Christmas present to him.
As for the narration, it was good. Tristan Wright made Hank sound like Keanu Reeves which was sort of... jarring but he differentiated the voices and sold the story well enough so I'm not opposed to listening to him again.
Whether you read or listen to this story I'd recommend it to NA, enemies to lovers, hurt/comfort lite or contemporary romance fans.
Read
November 14, 2014This is my Christmas novella for 2014. It's not a sequel to "Blame it on the Mistletoe", but it's in the same vein--a holiday romantic comedy. It's almost double the length of Mistletoe at 40K words. Hope you enjoy it!
Eli
Now on Amazon!
NOW ON ARE (epub, pdf):
My desktop post for this book is here:
Eli
Eli
Now on Amazon!
NOW ON ARE (epub, pdf):
My desktop post for this book is here:
Eli
December 13, 2015
*** Well,this was just adorable!!! ***
Well,I really shouldn't have liked this one....
Firstly,it's Y/ A
Secondly,there's only one sex scene....
But I absolutely loved it.
Sloane has just moved into a new Frat house and has been partnered with Hank to organize the House Christmas party.
Hank is not happy as he doesn't like Sloane.It's not because he's gay,more that he feels a bit intimidated by him.
Sloane is openly Gay.He's well travelled,charming and witty and everyone seems to love him.
As soon as Sloane sees Hank he's a bit fascinated by him.Although Hank is rude and distant with him,Sloane makes it his mission to unravel the mystery that is Hank.
So,they are thrown together to arrange the party and the banter between them was brilliant.
Poor Hank is confused over his sexuality and tries to fight his growing attraction to Sloane.
So the premise has been done before...the gay guy and the guy unsure what he wants but this stood out because the writing was brilliant.The characters were all engadging.I loved Micah,Hank's brother and the chapters when they went to spend Christmas with Hank and Micah's parents who were just brilliant.
A really enjoyable M/M story that I would totally recommended and perfect for this time of year......
Well,I really shouldn't have liked this one....
Firstly,it's Y/ A
Secondly,there's only one sex scene....
But I absolutely loved it.
Sloane has just moved into a new Frat house and has been partnered with Hank to organize the House Christmas party.
Hank is not happy as he doesn't like Sloane.It's not because he's gay,more that he feels a bit intimidated by him.
Sloane is openly Gay.He's well travelled,charming and witty and everyone seems to love him.
As soon as Sloane sees Hank he's a bit fascinated by him.Although Hank is rude and distant with him,Sloane makes it his mission to unravel the mystery that is Hank.
So,they are thrown together to arrange the party and the banter between them was brilliant.
Poor Hank is confused over his sexuality and tries to fight his growing attraction to Sloane.
So the premise has been done before...the gay guy and the guy unsure what he wants but this stood out because the writing was brilliant.The characters were all engadging.I loved Micah,Hank's brother and the chapters when they went to spend Christmas with Hank and Micah's parents who were just brilliant.
A really enjoyable M/M story that I would totally recommended and perfect for this time of year......
March 2, 2016
4.5 Stars!
This book!
Another one lost to the TBR! I hate myself right now for not reading this one sooner!
But, that's why I decided to do this whole TBR challenge. I get to discover for the first time, great books like this one.
This whole story made me swoon. HARD! The build up was perfect. And the end. Sweet baby Jesus the end.
I just loved Hank and Sloane!
So so so recommend this one!! Even if it isn't Christmastime.
This book!
Another one lost to the TBR! I hate myself right now for not reading this one sooner!
But, that's why I decided to do this whole TBR challenge. I get to discover for the first time, great books like this one.
This whole story made me swoon. HARD! The build up was perfect. And the end. Sweet baby Jesus the end.
I just loved Hank and Sloane!
So so so recommend this one!! Even if it isn't Christmastime.
January 19, 2016
Olé.
Because... Is there another word for this? I don't think so.
This book is simply and plainly gorgeous. So right on so many levels. An ambush of feelz. I didn't stand a chance. Trainwreck. If this story wasn't written there would be a Law that states that someone has to make it true ASAP. Affair of State. Because it fills a space no other book does. It's truly amazing. My Hank... he indeed makes me swoon.
Let's make a tower to the sky.
Castells are human towers where each casteller stands on the shoulders of the one below. The height can vary from four to ten storeys.
Each casteller has his own position and function within the castell, even if the tower seems to form at random to an outsider.
The motto of the castellers is, in Catalonian: "Força, equilibri, valor i seny" (Strength, Balance, Courage and Common sense).
I’m going to adapt, in a very clumsy way, this statement to this book.
Strength:
No, I’m not referring to Hank’s bulk. That’s too obvious on the outside. But that’s not why I fell in love with him. Hank isone of those characters that gets stuck in your mind because of his inner self. He’s grumpy but at the same time you know there is so much to tell. Things like his kindness, his loyalty, his innocence, his wits, his sense of humor, his sense of making things right, his doubts, his insecurity, his shyness. He has such a strong personality. You know he’s in the scene because you just feel the change in the air.
And what about Sloane? I can’t push him aside, he’s funny and ingenious. I loved his thoughts when he first sees Hank and can’t help himself from wondering how it would be. How it would feel being with Hank. There is an instant pull and he just needs to know more about him. Sloane is adorable and made me smile several times. He is adorable, aways with something clever to say, even in the most unexpected moments.
They were awkward with each other at first. A situation that was hidden under the “frenemy” charade. If you can’t hide your feelings of longing, transform it into animosity. But they couldn’t fool me. They were terribly adorable, confusing thoughts buzzing in their heads, self-deceptions in order to convince themselves it was just annoyance, attempts to avoid coming to terms about a simple task. Everything was so moving and cute sometimes I believed I was going to explode from the pleasure.
Balance:
In truth I was smiling the whole way because this book is just that way, small proofs of good vibes sending me shivers down my spine. Not only because of the great environment the author managed to create. But also because of everything the author included in this story: smexy times, heart-wrenching moments, warm second characters and touching elements that put together made an harmonious ensemble. Like the perfect orchestra. Nothing was out of place, it was indeed the best recipe possible because of the great ingredients served in their proper quantities. And it was cozy and adorable and sexy and made you feel full of satisfaction. Nutritive yet tasty and as addictive as the Oreo cookies.
Let’s say, it’s a Christmas story and only with that you think of sugar and sugar and more sugar. I expected a very sappy tale, with some moral meaning with a final lectura of Santa Claus telling you the Christmas spirit comes from believeing in the power of family and blablablá. No. No. No. Just the opposite, this story is universal, it could have happened in any other period of the year and it wouldn’t have sounded strange. It was in tune with myself all the while. Like the best music that complements your feelings in every moment.
Courage:
Because it’s heroic to achieve this! Eli Easton dared, and I love her for that. True, she had the imagination and creativeness necessary to picture this story. But would have been nothing if not for they obvious infinite talent (or close to infinite). She just rolled up her sleeves, took a deep breath ans said: “Yes, this can definitely work. Bring it on. I'm ready”. And ow, she aced. All the subjects: the birth of love, the development of a fierce friendship, the adorable companionship, the growth of trust, the overwhelming loyalty, the endless laughs, the warm touches, the welcoming surroundings… It was too wonderful to be true.
Common sense:
But nothing of this got lost in its own greatness. It didn’t went out of hand or became victim of its own success. Everything was impregnated with a feeling of truth and reality. It’s a book that makes you fly but it also makes you keep both feet firmly planted on the ground. Every character was unique in their own sphere but they were never exaggerated or forced. They flowed easily, as the soft side of velvet.
Now beards rock my world.
*Sighs*
And damn, that first by-chance-or-by-accident-but-not-so approach was too erotic for words. I won't read "derriere" again and not think about that scene. Only imagining it I know that I will have problems and endless frustration because I'm for sure spoiled for future books. My mind has a life of its own and goes back again and again to that moment. I can be a while immersed in my thoughts with my saliva drooling to the floor.
But that's not all because the final scene deserves a section for itself. The characters were truly in sync that time and wow, what a moment. I don't mean the ending but the scene I was longing for the whole book. It's one of the most sensual and thrilling hot scenes I've ever seen. It felt like that phantom limb itching under your skin. These characters don't exist in real life but they indeed gets deep inside you. Or I get deep inside them. I'm not sure. I just know that for a couple of minutes, I was not myself but I was somebody else. I was Sloane and Hank. It was an incredible extasis after a series of devastating and steamrolling events. This is exactly what I'm looking for when I read books. Language too limited to say how satisfied I am because of this book in general, and that scene in particular. Damn.
To sum it up: Olé, olé and olé.
Yes, I know, I'm a living cliché.
**
Some pics that inspired me:
Because... Is there another word for this? I don't think so.
This book is simply and plainly gorgeous. So right on so many levels. An ambush of feelz. I didn't stand a chance. Trainwreck. If this story wasn't written there would be a Law that states that someone has to make it true ASAP. Affair of State. Because it fills a space no other book does. It's truly amazing. My Hank... he indeed makes me swoon.
Let's make a tower to the sky.
Castells are human towers where each casteller stands on the shoulders of the one below. The height can vary from four to ten storeys.
Each casteller has his own position and function within the castell, even if the tower seems to form at random to an outsider.
The motto of the castellers is, in Catalonian: "Força, equilibri, valor i seny" (Strength, Balance, Courage and Common sense).
I’m going to adapt, in a very clumsy way, this statement to this book.
Strength:
No, I’m not referring to Hank’s bulk. That’s too obvious on the outside. But that’s not why I fell in love with him. Hank isone of those characters that gets stuck in your mind because of his inner self. He’s grumpy but at the same time you know there is so much to tell. Things like his kindness, his loyalty, his innocence, his wits, his sense of humor, his sense of making things right, his doubts, his insecurity, his shyness. He has such a strong personality. You know he’s in the scene because you just feel the change in the air.
And what about Sloane? I can’t push him aside, he’s funny and ingenious. I loved his thoughts when he first sees Hank and can’t help himself from wondering how it would be. How it would feel being with Hank. There is an instant pull and he just needs to know more about him. Sloane is adorable and made me smile several times. He is adorable, aways with something clever to say, even in the most unexpected moments.
They were awkward with each other at first. A situation that was hidden under the “frenemy” charade. If you can’t hide your feelings of longing, transform it into animosity. But they couldn’t fool me. They were terribly adorable, confusing thoughts buzzing in their heads, self-deceptions in order to convince themselves it was just annoyance, attempts to avoid coming to terms about a simple task. Everything was so moving and cute sometimes I believed I was going to explode from the pleasure.
Balance:
In truth I was smiling the whole way because this book is just that way, small proofs of good vibes sending me shivers down my spine. Not only because of the great environment the author managed to create. But also because of everything the author included in this story: smexy times, heart-wrenching moments, warm second characters and touching elements that put together made an harmonious ensemble. Like the perfect orchestra. Nothing was out of place, it was indeed the best recipe possible because of the great ingredients served in their proper quantities. And it was cozy and adorable and sexy and made you feel full of satisfaction. Nutritive yet tasty and as addictive as the Oreo cookies.
Let’s say, it’s a Christmas story and only with that you think of sugar and sugar and more sugar. I expected a very sappy tale, with some moral meaning with a final lectura of Santa Claus telling you the Christmas spirit comes from believeing in the power of family and blablablá. No. No. No. Just the opposite, this story is universal, it could have happened in any other period of the year and it wouldn’t have sounded strange. It was in tune with myself all the while. Like the best music that complements your feelings in every moment.
Courage:
Because it’s heroic to achieve this! Eli Easton dared, and I love her for that. True, she had the imagination and creativeness necessary to picture this story. But would have been nothing if not for they obvious infinite talent (or close to infinite). She just rolled up her sleeves, took a deep breath ans said: “Yes, this can definitely work. Bring it on. I'm ready”. And ow, she aced. All the subjects: the birth of love, the development of a fierce friendship, the adorable companionship, the growth of trust, the overwhelming loyalty, the endless laughs, the warm touches, the welcoming surroundings… It was too wonderful to be true.
Common sense:
But nothing of this got lost in its own greatness. It didn’t went out of hand or became victim of its own success. Everything was impregnated with a feeling of truth and reality. It’s a book that makes you fly but it also makes you keep both feet firmly planted on the ground. Every character was unique in their own sphere but they were never exaggerated or forced. They flowed easily, as the soft side of velvet.
Now beards rock my world.
*Sighs*
And damn, that first by-chance-or-by-accident-but-not-so approach was too erotic for words. I won't read "derriere" again and not think about that scene. Only imagining it I know that I will have problems and endless frustration because I'm for sure spoiled for future books. My mind has a life of its own and goes back again and again to that moment. I can be a while immersed in my thoughts with my saliva drooling to the floor.
But that's not all because the final scene deserves a section for itself. The characters were truly in sync that time and wow, what a moment. I don't mean the ending but the scene I was longing for the whole book. It's one of the most sensual and thrilling hot scenes I've ever seen. It felt like that phantom limb itching under your skin. These characters don't exist in real life but they indeed gets deep inside you. Or I get deep inside them. I'm not sure. I just know that for a couple of minutes, I was not myself but I was somebody else. I was Sloane and Hank. It was an incredible extasis after a series of devastating and steamrolling events. This is exactly what I'm looking for when I read books. Language too limited to say how satisfied I am because of this book in general, and that scene in particular. Damn.
To sum it up: Olé, olé and olé.
Yes, I know, I'm a living cliché.
**
Some pics that inspired me:
December 19, 2014
4.5 STARS
“Unwrapping Hank” is the sweet, perfect Christmas story you want to read next! Believe me! This book is for everyone! It doesn’t matter if you’re not a fan of m/m reads. You must read it! This book has everything - a solid plot, two fabulous endearing main characters, great engaging writing and so on..
A OFY, opposite attract story, “Unwrapping Hank” tells the story of Sloane, a college students and Hank, a huge dude who is much more than he appears.
Sloane is gay, out and proud and he’s the new member of Delta Sigma Phi. Growing up the son of two psychologists and also being a fan of mysteries, Sloane has a tendency to analyze people and put them in boxes. But when he meets Hank, Micah’s brother (who is the fraternity’s president) he’s lost. It doesn’t help that Hank is hot as hell with big muscles and tattoos. Needless to say, for Sloane is lust at first sight. He can’t help it, even if Hank is not his type at all. Sloane is more than ready to unwrap Hank in more ways than one.
All is good, but Hank seems to hate Sloane. Sloane is a friendly guy and everyone loves him, so why Hank hates him so much? Maybe Hank is homophobic?! It seems logically. Right?
Hank wanted all his life to appear exactly what he isn’t, straight. He feels uncomfortable when he’s around Sloane. Sloane confuses him and he feels out of control when he's around him. He doesn’t hates Sloane, he doesn’t dislike him, but he likes the idea of dislike him, because of course he doesn’t want to like him. Hank wants to be “normal”. He doesn’t know who he is. He is straight, he is bi, he is gay? Who is he? Poor Hunk!
Hank and Sloane relationships seems to change when they have to put together their frat’s Christmas party and when Sloane decides to spend his holidays with Micah and Hank’s family, after his parents stand him up for the holidays.
This story put a big smile on my face! I was smiling or grinning the entire time reading this! It truly was the perfect Christmas story and it was for sure one of the best with this theme (m/f or m/m) that I read this year. First thing first, I want to say that I enjoyed the writing big time. This book wasn’t my first read by this author, so I’m familiar with her style, but for me was her best.
I loved both Sloane and Hank. They were lovable from the start. Even if Hank was a little grumpy, at least at first, I like him from the start. I loved the fact that Hank is a smart and sensitive guy.
Hank’s family is so great. I just adored them and I loved “being” in their house. Micah, Hank's brother was fantastic and I can't wait for his book. I loved the fact we have both Sloane and Hank’s POVs. Being in their heads was fun. I also enjoyed how their relationship progressed, naturally and how their emotions seemed real the entire time.
Don’t expect this read to be very smutty. There’s only one sex scenes in the end, but I wasn’t bothered at all. ( I hope you won’t be either) It was hot, emotional, romantic..just perfect. I really wished for an epilogue. I’m a sucker for them, so I wouldn’t have minded to read more about Sloane and Hank.
Overall, “Unwrapping Hank” was a fantastic read and if you want a little Christmas treat, funny, cute with adorable characters, low in angst with just a little drama, look no further and pick this awesome read! I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
“Unwrapping Hank” is the sweet, perfect Christmas story you want to read next! Believe me! This book is for everyone! It doesn’t matter if you’re not a fan of m/m reads. You must read it! This book has everything - a solid plot, two fabulous endearing main characters, great engaging writing and so on..
A OFY, opposite attract story, “Unwrapping Hank” tells the story of Sloane, a college students and Hank, a huge dude who is much more than he appears.
Sloane is gay, out and proud and he’s the new member of Delta Sigma Phi. Growing up the son of two psychologists and also being a fan of mysteries, Sloane has a tendency to analyze people and put them in boxes. But when he meets Hank, Micah’s brother (who is the fraternity’s president) he’s lost. It doesn’t help that Hank is hot as hell with big muscles and tattoos. Needless to say, for Sloane is lust at first sight. He can’t help it, even if Hank is not his type at all. Sloane is more than ready to unwrap Hank in more ways than one.
“How did a guy who looked like an ex-con have eyes that were that sweet?”
All is good, but Hank seems to hate Sloane. Sloane is a friendly guy and everyone loves him, so why Hank hates him so much? Maybe Hank is homophobic?! It seems logically. Right?
Hank wanted all his life to appear exactly what he isn’t, straight. He feels uncomfortable when he’s around Sloane. Sloane confuses him and he feels out of control when he's around him. He doesn’t hates Sloane, he doesn’t dislike him, but he likes the idea of dislike him, because of course he doesn’t want to like him. Hank wants to be “normal”. He doesn’t know who he is. He is straight, he is bi, he is gay? Who is he? Poor Hunk!
Hank and Sloane relationships seems to change when they have to put together their frat’s Christmas party and when Sloane decides to spend his holidays with Micah and Hank’s family, after his parents stand him up for the holidays.
This story put a big smile on my face! I was smiling or grinning the entire time reading this! It truly was the perfect Christmas story and it was for sure one of the best with this theme (m/f or m/m) that I read this year. First thing first, I want to say that I enjoyed the writing big time. This book wasn’t my first read by this author, so I’m familiar with her style, but for me was her best.
I loved both Sloane and Hank. They were lovable from the start. Even if Hank was a little grumpy, at least at first, I like him from the start. I loved the fact that Hank is a smart and sensitive guy.
Hank’s family is so great. I just adored them and I loved “being” in their house. Micah, Hank's brother was fantastic and I can't wait for his book. I loved the fact we have both Sloane and Hank’s POVs. Being in their heads was fun. I also enjoyed how their relationship progressed, naturally and how their emotions seemed real the entire time.
Don’t expect this read to be very smutty. There’s only one sex scenes in the end, but I wasn’t bothered at all. ( I hope you won’t be either) It was hot, emotional, romantic..just perfect. I really wished for an epilogue. I’m a sucker for them, so I wouldn’t have minded to read more about Sloane and Hank.
Overall, “Unwrapping Hank” was a fantastic read and if you want a little Christmas treat, funny, cute with adorable characters, low in angst with just a little drama, look no further and pick this awesome read! I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
“You know what they say: once you go dick, that’s the end of the chicks.”
November 19, 2014
Several days ago a friend reminded me it was the 14th of November. You know what that means: Thanksgiving (pumpkin pie does not make up for annoying relatives); Christmas (stupid baby Jesus); BLACK FRIDAY (the horror...the horror...). And yet within the hour I caught myself singing “All I Want for Christmas is You.”
Loudly.
With hand gestures.
FUCK YOU AND YOUR SANTA HAT, MARIAH CAREY--IT'S FUCKING NOVEMBER.
But while I may complain about the ever increasing Christmas season, I’ll never complain about the holiday novellas that start appearing at this time of year. Publish them in March, I don’t care—they make me feel all gooey and happy inside.
Unwrapping Hank is a perfect example of a gooey, happy holiday read. I smiled from beginning to end and wanted to hug someone when I finished. (My dog thanks you, Ms. Easton.) Hank and Sloane are total opposites and spend the first half of the book bickering as they plan their frat’s Christmas party. Sloan’s a sophisticated, internationally educated son of two psychologists with a dry sense of humor :
“There’s a native American legend. It says that one day a white buffalo will be born during a summer storm. The crows will nest with the eagles and salmon will spawn in the sea. Then, and only then, will Hank and Sloane find a common vision.”Hank on the other hand—well, he’s about the last guy in the world I’d find attractive. Beefy guys with bicep tattoos and perpetual tank tops don’t do anything for me. Once I saw the guy on the cover I decided to reimagine his looks entirely. But almost immediately I couldn’t imagine Hank as anyone but himself, beefiness and the occasional backward baseball hat included.
And that's what I love most about Eli Easton books. Unwrapping Hank could've easily been about 2 opposites who look past the superficial to find a kindred soul--and it is, somewhat. But it's also about Hank, who behind the brawn is a sensitive, vulnerable guy who due to a childhood trauma wants to feel, wants to be perceived as, "normal." He wants to be "[i]n control...grounded, not flaky or...airy fairy." Toward the middle of the novella, I worried Easton wouldn't be able to pull off any changes within Hank in a realistic manner--but I shouldn't have. Hank's change in self-perception happens slowly, over the course of a couple of months and his Big Realization wasn't too sudden or too dramatic.
Maybe I'd been looking at it wrong. Maybe admitting that I was attracted to guys didn't mean I had to change who I was. I loved the gym, and I loved tattoos, and I love being a sweaty, beefy guy....And maybe, too, I didn't have to have the entire thing figured out to the last detail before I said or did anything.The only minor complaint I have is Hank's brother, Micah. He's a great character who I liked overall but some of his actions made me uncomfortable. (Saying more would be a spoiler.) However, it didn't distract too much from the novel and I'm sure it won't bother most readers.
If you still can't decide if this is the book for you, take a look at the dog on the cover. What kind of person can turn down that little face? Seriously--hot guys, romance, feels, humor and a DOG--it doesn't get much better than this.
April 19, 2020
The Story
Sloane and Hank are quite opposites – not only in appearance, but in personality too. Sloane is interested in Hank, seeing him as a puzzle to solve, and also attracted to him. Hank is totally unaware of his sexuality, he is so deep in denial that he doesn’t even admit it to himself. The openly gay Sloane irritates him, makes him uncomfortable, his mere existence provokes animosity from him toward Sloane.
So Hank’s brother, Micah, determined to smooth this situation over, makes them to organize the Christmas party together, hoping if they get to know each other, maybe they will get along better.
It’s partly a dislike-to-love, and also an opposites-attract story.
Characters
Sloane is extroverted, very social and everyone likes him. He is intelligent, sharp-tongued and perceptive; trendy, cute, and delicate.
Hank is introverted, more silent, deep thinking, a huge guy with big muscles, tats and a beard. He is also very smart, majors in philosophy, and according to Sloane, he is full of contradictions. But I didn’t find Hank as intriguing as Sloane did.
I liked Micah though, and his little intrigue. I always like situations where characters are forced to be together, to interact and to get to know each other.
Writing Style
The writing is great and engaging, filled with humor, witty and smooth dialogues, and fun banters. The dual point of view in first person is nicely done too.
Romance and Erotica
I have a problem with the structure of the plot.
The main part of the story is the build-up, the anticipation. Actually we are just waiting for Hank to pull his head out of his ass. It is very elongated and I don’t like to wait.
In order to set the wheels in motion, the jealousy card is played – I don’t like that either.
The first kiss is at 82%!! It is amazingly written, yes, but… at 82%??!!
The first (and only) sex scene is at the end. Actually, it is the last scene. After years of denial, ignoring and oppressing his feelings and desires, Hank . Not really believable, but hey, maybe he wanted to make up for the long wait.
Hank admitting himself he might be gay, admitting his attraction to Sloane, acting on this revelation and attraction (first kiss and first sex), becoming emotionally committed, and being out and proud all happened pretty much in a couple of days. After that much build-up and denial it is just too fast.
All in all, 2.5 stars for the enjoyable moments and for the great writing.
Sloane and Hank are quite opposites – not only in appearance, but in personality too. Sloane is interested in Hank, seeing him as a puzzle to solve, and also attracted to him. Hank is totally unaware of his sexuality, he is so deep in denial that he doesn’t even admit it to himself. The openly gay Sloane irritates him, makes him uncomfortable, his mere existence provokes animosity from him toward Sloane.
So Hank’s brother, Micah, determined to smooth this situation over, makes them to organize the Christmas party together, hoping if they get to know each other, maybe they will get along better.
It’s partly a dislike-to-love, and also an opposites-attract story.
Sloane and me, we were like oil and water, or maybe a bottled home-made brew and some prissy champagne.
Characters
Sloane is extroverted, very social and everyone likes him. He is intelligent, sharp-tongued and perceptive; trendy, cute, and delicate.
Hank is introverted, more silent, deep thinking, a huge guy with big muscles, tats and a beard. He is also very smart, majors in philosophy, and according to Sloane, he is full of contradictions. But I didn’t find Hank as intriguing as Sloane did.
I liked Micah though, and his little intrigue. I always like situations where characters are forced to be together, to interact and to get to know each other.
Writing Style
The writing is great and engaging, filled with humor, witty and smooth dialogues, and fun banters. The dual point of view in first person is nicely done too.
Romance and Erotica
I have a problem with the structure of the plot.
The main part of the story is the build-up, the anticipation. Actually we are just waiting for Hank to pull his head out of his ass. It is very elongated and I don’t like to wait.
In order to set the wheels in motion, the jealousy card is played – I don’t like that either.
The first kiss is at 82%!! It is amazingly written, yes, but… at 82%??!!
The first (and only) sex scene is at the end. Actually, it is the last scene. After years of denial, ignoring and oppressing his feelings and desires, Hank . Not really believable, but hey, maybe he wanted to make up for the long wait.
Hank admitting himself he might be gay, admitting his attraction to Sloane, acting on this revelation and attraction (first kiss and first sex), becoming emotionally committed, and being out and proud all happened pretty much in a couple of days. After that much build-up and denial it is just too fast.
All in all, 2.5 stars for the enjoyable moments and for the great writing.
December 20, 2014
❅❅❅ 4 Cute Christmases ❅❅❅
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“Be careful. You know what they say: once you go dick, that’s the end of the chicks.”
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Aww...this was so freaking adorable. I loved this cute Christmas novella.
Sloane has just returned to America and is studying at Penn State University. He has had quite the unconventional upbringing with both his parents being psychiatrists and them living in Paris since he was a kid. Now that he is back, he joins a frat where he is befriended by Micah, the frat leader. This is also where he meets Micah's younger brother Hank, who is very sexy in an ex-con kind of way. Hank is the complete opposite to Sloan. That doesn't stop Sloane from lusting after him. Micah puts Hank and Sloane together to work on making the best party their frat house has ever had, in order to get more people interested in their frat. And this is when all the bickering and pranks ensues between them.
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"Don't come in, Dad!" Hank said.
"Believe me, I won't," Karma said with vocal shiver. "Just... I have, um, condoms and lube." And in a mutter. "Your mother made me."
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Watching these two pretend so hard to hate each other was so highly entertaining. I loved every moment of it. Even though this had great humourous moments, there were also some emotional moments in the story that just made things so much more better. Everything flowed very well, and despite its short length I was able to really connect with these characters. I loved the equally as wacky secondary characters, especially all of Hank's family. And I don't even care that there was only one sex scene because I freaking enjoyed it that much. I just love how sweet, romantic, and oh, so very funny it was. I also really loved the narration from both Sloane and Hank. If you are looking for a fun and adorable Christmas story to get you all smiley and happy for the holiday season, look no further.
December 11, 2014
5 Adorably Spicey Stars
There are SPOILERZ.
There is no question in my mind. I love this author. Her books are exactly how I like my Contemporary Romances. They are cute, funny, adorable, with a tiny bit of drama and some spice to get away from the YA genre. In the last 2 days, I've added 3 of her books in my favorites shelf and they aren't even full length novels. She's managed to make me love 3 novellas.
The book had a humorous note with Hank and Sloane starting out as enemies, then becoming frenemies and then more. It made for some entertaining bantering and a couple "LOL" moments. It was also interesting to watch Sloane trying to fight his attraction to Hank because of thinking that Hank was straight. I loved reading all the logical musings Sloane had about how ridiculous it would be to fall for a straight guy and how they went out the window every time he laid eyes on Hank.
Hank on his part played the "Alpha, straight, male" heavy because he didn't want to be a "free spirit" like his hippy parents, who were HILARIOUS and crazy awesome, but I can see why a kid may be a little embarassed when he is young. This scene whould be telling enough...
"Don't come in, Dad!" Hank said.
"Believe me, I won't," Karma said with a vocal shiver. "Just…I have, um, condoms and lube." And in a mutter, "Your mother made me."
And then there was Hank's brother, who was just as amazingly free spirited and hippy as his parents. I liked how he wanted to "experinment" and he never judged anyone and he was always there for his brother, even when he was acting like an idiot. And I kept picturing him like Samuel Larsen, so that didn't hurt.
This guy is just freaking beautiful.
And the best part was I loved that little detail.
All in all, great writing, fun characters, little drama, a couple of hot sex scenes and a really lovely Christmas story.
There are SPOILERZ.
There is no question in my mind. I love this author. Her books are exactly how I like my Contemporary Romances. They are cute, funny, adorable, with a tiny bit of drama and some spice to get away from the YA genre. In the last 2 days, I've added 3 of her books in my favorites shelf and they aren't even full length novels. She's managed to make me love 3 novellas.
The book had a humorous note with Hank and Sloane starting out as enemies, then becoming frenemies and then more. It made for some entertaining bantering and a couple "LOL" moments. It was also interesting to watch Sloane trying to fight his attraction to Hank because of thinking that Hank was straight. I loved reading all the logical musings Sloane had about how ridiculous it would be to fall for a straight guy and how they went out the window every time he laid eyes on Hank.
Hank on his part played the "Alpha, straight, male" heavy because he didn't want to be a "free spirit" like his hippy parents, who were HILARIOUS and crazy awesome, but I can see why a kid may be a little embarassed when he is young. This scene whould be telling enough...
"Don't come in, Dad!" Hank said.
"Believe me, I won't," Karma said with a vocal shiver. "Just…I have, um, condoms and lube." And in a mutter, "Your mother made me."
And then there was Hank's brother, who was just as amazingly free spirited and hippy as his parents. I liked how he wanted to "experinment" and he never judged anyone and he was always there for his brother, even when he was acting like an idiot. And I kept picturing him like Samuel Larsen, so that didn't hurt.
This guy is just freaking beautiful.
And the best part was I loved that little detail.
All in all, great writing, fun characters, little drama, a couple of hot sex scenes and a really lovely Christmas story.
April 13, 2015
Such a sweet, fun holiday read. I loved that Sloane's motivations for unwrapping Hank aren't malicious, or nasty, and that he genuinely wants to understand Hank. I like that Hank was much more than he first appeared, and appreciated that I was able to get into his head. I don't think I would have liked him as much if I only saw him through Sloane's eyes. I loved his brother, and especially his parents. They were a fun, and loving family, and it was a nice change from all the hate, and rejection. The serious parts of this book were handled nicely, and fit in with the feel of the book as a whole. A really nice seasonal read.
December 11, 2014
So, I'm a bitter old hag, and I was perfectly prepared to not like this. Not that it has anything to do with the book, or Eli Easton's writing style, which is lovely, it's just that's it started with frat boys and if there is one thing Natasha Snow dislikes, it's frat boys.
I hate New Adult. Like, shit, I can't even tell you how deeply I detest the genre. I don't think it's bad, it's just not me. So after the first bit of me being a total wine-bag, I let the story take over.
3.75 stars, I think. Maybe 4. I really, really liked this. A lot. I love Sloane, which is, BTW, just my type, and I even really liked Hank. They're no Winter (wait for me, my love!), but damn great characters.
Superb writing. Seriously hilarious. Awfully cute. And man, I bumped this story up by at least .25 to .5 stars just for the great sexing which I was totally boning for.
I really fought this story every step of the way, but if lured me in with it's cuteness.
You win, Easton. You win.
I hate New Adult. Like, shit, I can't even tell you how deeply I detest the genre. I don't think it's bad, it's just not me. So after the first bit of me being a total wine-bag, I let the story take over.
3.75 stars, I think. Maybe 4. I really, really liked this. A lot. I love Sloane, which is, BTW, just my type, and I even really liked Hank. They're no Winter (wait for me, my love!), but damn great characters.
Superb writing. Seriously hilarious. Awfully cute. And man, I bumped this story up by at least .25 to .5 stars just for the great sexing which I was totally boning for.
I really fought this story every step of the way, but if lured me in with it's cuteness.
You win, Easton. You win.
November 14, 2014
4.5
Fantastic little holiday story that I wish that I had saved to read over my own holiday break. I'll just have to re-read it again (such a hardship). It made me laugh, made me cry and has me pining to see the men ten years down the road. Can I put in a request for a sequel now for next year?
Fantastic little holiday story that I wish that I had saved to read over my own holiday break. I'll just have to re-read it again (such a hardship). It made me laugh, made me cry and has me pining to see the men ten years down the road. Can I put in a request for a sequel now for next year?
October 29, 2015
We're getting another Christmas story in this series! The next book in Eli Easton's "Unwrapping" series comes out Nov. 25 and is titled Midwinter's Night Dream. Check out the beautiful cover by Reese Dante, read an excerpt and enter for a chance to win an Amazon gift card!
REVIEW OF UNWRAPPING HANK:
Loved it!
REVIEW OF UNWRAPPING HANK:
Loved it!
November 24, 2014
Very nice Xmas story, not very impressive in my silly opinion. Everyone else loved it ;)
December 27, 2014
**** 4,5 ****
Very very cute!
Very very cute!
January 3, 2016
***4.5 Stars***
I unwrapped Hank....and I LOVED what I got!!
"Do you actually see the testosterone pour out of you when you work out, or is it more of a mist?"
This was a sweet holiday story that gave me lots of feels in a short number of pages...something I don't often find with novellas. Sloane and Hank were the perfect Thanksgiving treat. Two endearing MC's, a hippy family, fun on the farm and a manipulative and possessive bulldog started my day off right....with a huge smile on my face!
"You're going to drive me crazy, aren't you?"
"'Crazy' is an ambiguous term with no clinical meaning, and it's insulting to mental health patients. Can you be more specific?"
My only gripe was I wish we had some time with Sloane and Hank as a couple. They finally got together (with a very hot roll in the hay) and the story was wrapping up. An extra chapter, or even a few pages, would have been welcomed with open arms.
November 25, 2015
What a pleasant and thoroughly enjoyable Christmas read.
“Be careful. You know what they say: once you go dick, that’s the end of the chicks."
Loved it!
November 17, 2014
This one started out a bit rocky for me. I didn't love Sloane or Hank in the beginning and was somewhat indifferent about whether or not the got together. Somewhere around the 40% mark that changed and I started pulling for them. By 70% I just wanted to smack their heads together until they saw the light and starting playing hide the salami. When that finally starting happening toward the end of the book it was so good and definitely worth the wait. If you're a fan of you're liable to spontaneously combust. ;)
The bar has been set for Christmas stories and it's pretty high. I'd definitely recommend this one to everyone.
The bar has been set for Christmas stories and it's pretty high. I'd definitely recommend this one to everyone.
November 19, 2014
Aww, this was such a sweet Christmas story. Loved it to pieces!
PS. Really hoping Micah gets his own book!
February 7, 2017
This was so adorable that I can't stop grinning.
I loved everything about this book. Sloane and his nerdy talk, beefy Hank, his manipulative dog Grinch and his family were amazing.
2nd read: 22-11-2015
I loved everything about this book. Sloane and his nerdy talk, beefy Hank, his manipulative dog Grinch and his family were amazing.
"Don't come in, Dad!" Hank said.I especially enjoyed the mistletoe scene and the barn action. I want more! A sequel with Micah would be nice.
"Believe me, I won't," Karma said with vocal shiver. "Just... I have, um, condoms and lube." And in a mutter. "Your mother made me."
2nd read: 22-11-2015
April 1, 2020
It's a short book, but not too short. I was able to read it in one sitting (a couple of hours) but the story and characters developed really well so it felt much longer than it was.
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