mlinder18's Reviews (632)

I was severely let down by this book. The premise is adorable and would make such a charming read, however the execution was far from good. The author does a wonderful job with the atmosphere and writing these little cozy/hygge moments but that doesn't make up for a lack of character development. I didn't feel invested or involved in any of the characters stories and honestly felt like a lot of them were just annoying and rude. Any romance set up in this book was unbelievable and surface level at best. This was definitely missing any "holiday" plot as well, I guess it takes place in December but they only mention the holidays a small handful of times. Also there is a huge lack of conflict happening and it just ends. I was on the last chapter and didn't even realize it. 
Overall, it's not unreadable which is why it gets a 2 star rating, but I wouldn't really recommend this to anyone unless they don't care about characters and just want to read about a nice cozy town/atmosphere. 

Charming little summer read! I loved the whole "royal" aspect of the book but it wasn't too focused on the royals which was great. This was cute and quick to get through with a few pretty spicy moments in between. My only complaint was the chemistry between Piper and Harrison was a bit off. It wasn't really an enemies to lovers and they only talked to each other a small handful of times and then out of no where they were falling for each other, just seemed a bit rushed. 

When I originally put this book on my TBR I did not realize it was a middle grade book. That being said, this was INCREDIBLE. I wish I had this book as a kid in 5th-6th grade. It covers everything from managing emotions, to difficult family relationships but in a way that is easy to understand for a younger audience. I would definitely recommend to any parent of a kid between the ages of 9 to 13. 

Short stories are always a good time and I loved the holiday theme. However, there were quite a few stories in here I just didn't like and skimmed through. Below is a list from the collection of the stories I would categorize as 5 stars:

Midnights - Rainbow Rowell (Cute opening to the book and really got me in the holiday spirit!)
Angels in the Snow - Matt De La Pena (I cried, enough said)
Polaris Is Where You'll Find Me - Jenny Han (Honestly, felt a bit short but still a great holiday read)
It's a Yuletide Miracle, Charlie Brown - Stephanie Perkins (Favorite in the whole book!!)
Your Temporary Santa - David Levithan (I enjoyed the LGBTQIA+ rep in this one)
What the Hell Have You Done, Sophie Roth - Gayle Forman (Yay for Hanukkah story!)

This book knows how to grab your attention and never let it go. Short and quick paced chapters that end with massive cliffhangers just beg you to keep reading. I thought this was a fresh take on a mysterious, dystopian-esque love story. 

This book made absolutely no sense at all. I'm not a huge fan of this series but this is by far the worst installment. 

This story was so long and unnecessary. For a story that takes place over a month or so of time, it took forever for anything to happen. 

It would have made way more sense to have had the two MCs get married earlier in the book and then navigate the misunderstandings and communication issues of being married to someone you don't truly know.

Also the book just ended. No resolution or happy ending that wrapped up the story. If this author writers anything else I will not be picking it up. 

Short cute Christmas read. Honestly just wish it was a bit longer. 

I don't reach for graphic novels often but this series was adorable. The first book was damn near perfect but this sequel felt a little less cohesive and messy at times. Still a beautiful and funny story and I was captivated until the end. 

Simple and cute holiday read. The twins swapping lives trope was fun and although done a lot is not something I've read in a while. I personally really connected with and loves Cass. I found her character so loveable and relatable. I would love for this to turn into a series either following the twins or just set in this adorable small town.