The characters in this book were well-written, but with 12 of them gathered at the cabin, it was initially overwhelming to keep track of everyone. Once I got a sense of who was who, the story unfolded with plenty of drama—ranging from a relationship with a younger man, his ex-wife joining him at his new girlfriend’s cabin, mother-daughter conflicts, to ex-boyfriend issues, and more. While the book was described as funny, I found it to focus more on drama and serious topics instead. That said, it was still entertaining, especially since I enjoy stories that delve into real-world problems. The family dynamics were relatable, as my own family often has this level of chaos!
However, the ending felt rushed. With just three pages left, I didn’t think everything would tie up, but somehow it did—though not in a way I expected. One romantic conclusion, in particular, seemed abrupt and unconvincing; I was expecting a grand gesture or at least some effort to win the other person over. Additionally, I wish more attention had been given to Christmas Day itself, as it felt like an afterthought.
On a less positive note, the inclusion of IBS and the detailed bathroom descriptions felt unnecessary and off-putting. I would have preferred the character’s illness to be portrayed differently.
Lastly, this book contains several triggers, including the death of a very young child, the death of a parent/spouse, grief, a workplace shooting, and parental abandonment.
Book Description:
From Amazon: Julie Parker’s kids are her greatest gift. Still, she’s not exactly heartbroken when they ask to skip a big Christmas. Her son, Nick, is taking a belated honeymoon with his bride, Blair, while her daughter, Dana, will purge every reminder of the guy who dumped her. Again. Julie feels practically giddy for one-on-one holiday time with Heath, the (much) younger man she’s secretly dating.
But her plans go from cozy to chaotic when Nick and Dana plead for Christmas at the family cabin in memory of their late father, Julie’s ex. She can’t refuse, even though she dreads their reactions to her new man when they realize she’s been hiding him for months.
As the guest list grows in surprising ways, from Blair’s estranged mom to Heath’s precocious children, Julie’s secret is one of many to be unwrapped. Over this delightfully complicated and very funny Christmas, she’ll discover that more really is merrier, and that a big, happy family can become bigger and happier, if they let go of old hurts and open their hearts to love.