apagetoturn's reviews
1352 reviews

 

A December to Remember by Jenny Bayliss is a heartwarming holiday tale with plenty of charm, humor, and family drama, though it doesn’t quite reach its full potential. The premise—a trio of estranged half-sisters forced to reconcile their differences through their late father’s quirky will—is both intriguing and ripe with possibilities for emotional depth and cozy holiday vibes. Bayliss captures the magic of a small-town setting beautifully, and her descriptions of Rowan Thorp are so vivid that you can almost feel the chill in the air and smell the mulled cider.

The dynamics between Maggie, Simone, and Star are engaging, offering a mix of bickering, misunderstandings, and moments of tender connection as they navigate the trials set forth by their father. Their individual backstories provide depth, and seeing their growth as they confront old wounds and rediscover their bond is satisfying.

That said, the story does suffer from an overabundance of side characters and lengthy dialogue that sometimes detracts from the pacing. While the bustling village life adds charm, it can feel overwhelming to keep track of everyone, and some scenes could have benefited from tighter editing. For readers who prefer a more streamlined narrative, this might feel like a distraction from the sisters' journey.

Still, the book shines in its themes of forgiveness, love, and finding joy in the unexpected. The solstice celebration is a highlight, offering a heartwarming culmination of the sisters’ journey. While the execution isn’t perfect, A December to Remember delivers a cozy, feel-good story that pairs well with a cup of cocoa on a snowy evening. Fans of family-driven holiday tales will likely enjoy its blend of humor and heart. 

 Carolyn McBride’s Santa Overboard offers a cozy, feel-good holiday read with a mix of humor, heart, and midlife self-discovery. Set in the charming small town of Occoquan, this rom-com focuses on Katie Young, a single mom navigating a flurry of holiday chaos, a blossoming romance, and unexpected challenges as she settles into a new chapter of her life. The story blends lighthearted mishaps—like a swimming Santa—with emotional depth, making it an enjoyable mix of fun and sentimentality. While the premise is charming, the plot follows familiar holiday rom-com tropes, which may leave seasoned readers of the genre wanting more surprises .Some moments feel overly drawn out, particularly in the lead-up to key events, while other storylines could benefit from more depth, such as the dynamic between Katie and her holiday-averse love interest, Deke.

Santa Overboard is a delightful seasonal escape for readers who enjoy small-town romance, holiday cheer, and stories of personal growth. While it doesn’t stray far from genre conventions, its heartfelt themes and spirited setting make it a worthwhile read for fans of cozy rom-coms. 

JL Berg has once again crafted an emotionally charged, breathtaking romance with The Bridges I've Burned, a story that explores love, family, and the sacrifices we make for both. This book captivated me from the very first page and kept me hooked until the final word.

What really sets The Bridges I’ve Burned apart is JL Berg’s ability to weave a beautiful love story with real-life struggles. Zander and Elena both have dreams they’re chasing, but the question remains: Can they reconcile their individual paths and build a future together? The emotional rollercoaster is real, and the twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The setting of Ocracoke Island and the family dynamics are rich with tension, drama, and personal growth. Zander is forced to reckon with his past decisions, his fractured family, and the life he thought he wanted, all while grappling with his emerging feelings for Elena. The push and pull between their undeniable attraction and the complications of his rising fame are handled with a delicate balance, making the stakes feel even higher.

I won’t spoil the twist that comes later in the book, but let me just say… wow. It’s one of those unexpected moments that completely shifts the narrative, and I was here for every second of it. JL Berg masterfully layers the tension, drama, and romance, building to a conclusion that’s both satisfying and emotionally fulfilling.

If you love stories about second chances, complicated relationships, and discovering that the biggest risks can lead to the most rewarding love, The Bridges I’ve Burned is a must-read. Zander and Elena’s story is one that will stay with you long after you finish the book, making you reflect on the bridges you’ve burned and the ones you might still need to rebuild.