Review: Wrapped with a Beau by Lillie Vale
Thank you Penguin Group Putnam for my copy! All thoughts are my own.
I picked this book up in July for a little Christmas in July moment as I prep for my 2023 Holiday Reading Guide and while I thought it was cute, I overall didn’t connect with this story. I loved the characters but didn’t feel the chemistry between them. I loved the setting but didn’t feel like I really got to know the people who made up the small town.
Overall, a nice easy festive read but not one I will return to.
Synopsis:
“As a successful film liaison, Elisha Rowe has her heart set on one thing and one thing only: putting her hometown back on the map. So, when she gets the chance to secure the long-hoped-for sequel to Sleighbells under Starlight, a beloved holiday movie, she's willing to do whatever it takes to make sure everything goes smoothly. Unfortunately, that includes claiming to have already gotten permission to film at the historic Christmas house—permission she was very much denied by the gorgeous new owner.
City boy Ves Hollins is only back in Piney Peaks long enough to sell the house he inherited from his great-aunt. The holidays have always been tough for Ves, and it's not any easier when he's distracted by memories of a Christmas long, long ago, and the irresistible charm of neighbor Elisha. He has no plans to put down roots or fall in love...even if Elisha unravels his hesitations like a bad Christmas sweater.
There's no question the two are opposites in every way. Ves is undeniably frosty. Elisha is brimming with warmth. He doesn't do commitment. She never runs from a challenge. But as the two grow closer, they quickly realize that the growing spark between them may be just what the season calls for. “ —NetGalley
What I Liked:
The Setting—Piney Peaks was so cute! It was a little Hallmarky town and I thought it was brought to life in a successful way.
The Idea of the Film—As someone who loves classic holiday movies, I really liked the concept of this book!
What Didn’t Work for Me:
The Pacing—Things just felt off in this department and I think it’s because the lack of tropes left it kind of guideless?
The Chemistry—Again, just felt off. I am not a fan of friends with benefits or “we’ll be together while you’re here” cause it feels like removes the tension the reader wants and replaces it with what the author thinks the writer wants (spice).
Wanted More—The whole book was just a little surface level in my opinion. I wanted it to go a bit deeper!
Character Authenticity: 3/5 Spice Rating: 1/5 Overall Rating: 2.75/5
Content Warnings:
grief