Chelsey’s December Reads
I finally jumped on the Christmas romance reads bandwagon and I am so glad I did! While I read my fair share of Nicholas Sparks in my youth, I still fight hard the little voice telling me that time spent reading should be educational, so taking a leap into one rom-com after another was actually more difficult than I expected - but I have no regrets. The month of December was spent relishing cute storylines that hit all the right feels during this busy season!
Any Trope but You by Victoria Lavine (4 stars) - An endearing story of how sometimes the worst things that happen to us could actually be the best things for us. Margot was not looking for love and Forrest was not looking to get involved in a complicated relationship - again. But as these forced-proximity-enemies-to-lovers stereotypes learn in the Alaskan wilderness, it’s you might not always see what you need, even when it catches you mid-leap when a friendly moose surprises you. There are a few scenes that get a little spicy and descriptive, and even with the overall tension, their physical relationship does not dominate the storyline.
All's Fair in Love and Christmas by Sarah Monzon (4.5 stars) - Cute and cozy Christmas read! No spice but some tender moments. I didn’t find it overly thrilling, but it was a sweet read. I appreciated the acknowledgement of mental health within Christian circles and beliefs, while remaining steadfast in faith.
The Santa Suit by Mary Kay Andrews (4.5 stars) - A quality story to get lost in! This was an easy read that captured my attention with just enough mystery to keep me coming back without taking up too much mental space during the busy holiday season! Closed door and zero spice!
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren (4.5 stars) - An intriguing story by some of my favorite authors. I can’t say it’s my favorite from Christina (and) Lauren, but it hit the spot for another cozy Christmas title. I enjoyed following Mae through a series of “ground-hog day” versions of her favorite Christmas getaway. When she realizes that maybe her life is more than just a series of safe and expected choices, fate seems to be more on her side as she gains the courage to go for what she really wants.
One Last Gift by Emily Stone (4 stars) - Not your typical holiday rom-com; and not really a comedy at all. However I enjoyed Emily Stone's perspective on holiday traditions and the personal umph that often takes to continue in those, even after a loved one is gone. Cassie’s brother, Tom always found a way to make Christmas special after their parents tragically died when they were young - a scavenger hunt that always led to a Christmas surprise. One year, Cassie experienced another tragedy that left her numb and bitter until she found the last clue Tom had left her. While she journeys through almost an entire year solving her brother's clues, she also discovers a bit more about herself and the truth behind others' actions.
Love, Holly by Emily Stone (4.5 stars) - Not my typical, go-to holiday romance - but I was so invested in this story! I appreciate Emily Stone's ability to bring holiday magic, or day I say, fate, into what could easily be real life circumstances. I actually chuckled and was excited to turn the pages to find out what happened next. The story follows Holly, who survived a tragic car accident four years ago, as she maneuvers through grief and guilt, acceptance and healing.
I already have our book club read for January started with plans to continue reading outside my comfort zone - by enjoying fictions and stretching back into historical fiction, biographies and personal development.