A Daddy for Christmas 2: Baran

By: Brina Brady

Narrated by: James Talbot

Nineteen-year-old Baran Arslan gets a shocking Christmas present from his father. When Turkish businessman Marat Arslan discovers his son is gay, he flies him from Istanbul to New York City for the holiday - and abandons him. Cut off from access to his family and any funds Baran must figure out how to survive. Fortunately, he speaks English and soon meets a young man who directs him to Rainbow Haven, a homeless shelter for gay young men.

Twenty-eight-year-old Darien Moore has the looks, charm and inherited wealth that would have allowed him to become the perfect New York City playboy. Instead, he has invested his time and money to create Rainbow Haven. He’s found his purpose in providing not just shelter, but a place of hope where young men can rebuild their lives.

This Christmas, Baran needs a loving, protective Daddy, and Darien needs a boy to love and care for. Rainbow Haven may just be the place where Santa grants both their wishes.

A Daddy for Christmas 2 is a multi-author series. Holiday tales of lost boys in need of Daddy’s love and in some cases, a firm hand. Naughty or nice, it’s all in Santa’s hands now. So why not dive in and read each standalone and enjoy the holidays alongside our boys.

©2024 Brina Brady (P)2024 Brina Brady

unique holiday listen

James Talbot did the audio for this book once again for Brina. He did well in distinguishing between the characters, so you didn't lose track of whose POV or who was speaking. The one part I did have slight issues with was Darians voice felt to old for me, if that makes sense. Baran however was handled beautifully with his distinct accent.

When Baran is asked to visit his father in NYC he is excited to see him once again and hope to rebuild their relationship. Things do not go to plan leaving Baran to seek shelter where he meets Darian. Darian runs the shelter and is instantly drawn to this sweet boy and does what he can to make him feel loved and welcomed in this new place. The story keeps right with the holiday feel, while also showing the real-life struggles of an immigrant in the US, where he has troubles adjusting and in turn has his defenses. Brina did great in handling all these nuances while keeping with the feel of this combined universe overall.

Loved it

I loved Baran (A Daddy for Christmas #2) and struggled to put it down. James Talbot's voice really brings this story to life. The story is amazing and I enjoyed reading Baran and Darien's story.