If you’re a fan of when ‘he falls first and harder’, you’ll love this book. Ash is absolutely adorable and head over heels for Hazel. He takes his time getting to know her and supporting her through the stress of the holidays, and navigating her tense familial situation. There were so many moments that had me swooning such as when Ash lends her his jacket because she’s cold, and his blazer after a mishap with water and a white shirt.
I love how this story isn’t just about Hazel and Ash and how their relationship grows over the course of a trip home for Christmas. It’s also about Hazel rekindling her relationship with her father and his new family, and Ash coming to terms with his father’s illness and learning to trust his family to take care of themselves. The story focused on family, and togetherness during the holidays, which made it feel cosy and well-rounded.
It was hard to put this book down. Hazel was such a fun main character, I loved how driven she was in pursuit of her PhD and my heart hurt for her when she felt unwanted by the people around her. I loved how her journey was equally packed with tender and awkward moments that had me awwing and laughing the whole way through.
This is such an adorable book to pick up for the holidays and I’m so grateful to Penguin Group and G.P. Putnam’s Sons for sending me an ARC of this book on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
Five out of five stars.
Paging Kait 