The Holiday Hookup List

Daria (Along Came Amor) kicks off this spicy Christmas-themed romp with New York City environmental lawyer Valencia Torres running into her middle school bully, Gideon Noble, now a finance lawyer, at a nightclub. Despite the “years of torment” that Gideon inflicted on Valencia, the pair feel an immediate and intense mutual attraction, leading to some dirty dancing before they head back to Valencia’s place. There, steamy sex gives way to heartfelt conversation as they hash out the past, including a sincere apology from Gideon. When it comes out they’ll both be spending the holidays alone—it’s the first Christmas since Gideon’s father died, and Valencia used to celebrate with her ex-fiance’s family—they agree to deck the halls together. They write up a “naughty and nice list” with one festive activity and one sexual activity to try on each of the 12 days until Christmas. This gives the rest of the book its structure, with chapter titles including “Nipple Clamps & Ice Skating” and “Porn & Presents.” The festivities are fun and make good use of the New York City setting and the sex scenes are playful, with an emphasis on experimentation and communication. Inevitably, feelings deepen along the way to a surprisingly emotional climax. This will heat up even the coldest December night. (Oct.)