My first confession-I haven’t read the first in the series, so I didn’t have any emotional investment in these characters when I picked up the book. My second confession-this is a Christmas themed book but I received an advance copy of this via NetGalley in October, so perhaps the mood wasn’t quite right.
What I could tell early on was that Lily and Dash are this ever-so-cute couple who’ve been together nearly a year, but feel like they’re losing their way as real life gets in the way. Lily is miserable as she’s dealing with her grandfather’s illness. Dash is angsty as he can see things are going not particularly well, but isn’t sure how to rectify the situation.
For chunks of the book I felt things were rather contrived. It all felt like things were trying too hard to be cool/cute/Christmas-spirited. However, there came a moment when I could feel the charm working on me.
I loved Lily’s great-aunt and her way of talking to those around her. There were some great scenes – the gingerbread making, the Santa visit, the ice-skating glitter-fest – but by the time we had the treasure hunt I was unashamedly hooked.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for allowing me a sneak peek of this, a book that will thaw even the frostiest heart and which will have Lily and Dash fans raving. Now I’m going to have to go and read the first in the series!