Alex is the embodiment of the Grinch when this story begins. He's battling the holiday shoppers for some food and everything is annoying him. He's sick of Christmas carols, holiday spirit, and peppermint... he really hates peppermint. When Alex bumps into a festive stranger named Nicholas ( oh yes, he's impressed that he's named after Santa) Alex has no idea he's meeting a neighbor in his new building.

Alex hasn't really moved to the city just for his education. He's run away from the fact that no one in his family knows that he's gay. He doesn't want to tell anyone because of a very unpleasant experience with his ex-best friend. No, I'm not going to spoil what happened.. that my holiday gift to you.

Alex has met his match in Nicholas when it comes to Christmas cheer. Hart writes a lovely character and Nicholas is no exception. He bakes and hands out candy canes, gives his neighbors Christmas baking and howls out Christmas carols in the middle of the night. He gathers up supplies so the neighbors can all make snowmen and he leaves candy canes with notes attached to Alex's door.

How could you not love Nicholas? Well, if you were Alex you'd be shy. There's a lot going on for Alex but this isn't a heavily emotional plot. There are a few speed bumps but Hart handles Alex's past issues lightly and sweetly.

If you're looking for a romantic, extremely Christmassy love story then this will hit all the buttons for you! ( )