August 1, 2024
DEBUT The festive town of New Hope, PA, is the merry background for Douglas's charming yuletide romance. Strapping and sexy small-town baker Lawrence is concerned he won't have a very merry Christmas after finding out that influencer-adored Sparkle Cookies is moving into town, in direct competition with his shop. With Sparkle, though, comes Elena, a big-city marketing VP who is determined that the shop will succeed, both to get her jerky boss off her back and to impress her high-powered family. The pair soon find themselves entangled in more ways than one, though--first at a local cookie swap and then romantically. Elena's drive proves to be at odds with Lawrence's shy tendencies, but even in their toughest moment a few days before the holiday, it's clear that this couple will make up before Christmas. The stakes don't feel particularly high, but the cozy setting and likable side characters, especially Lawrence's feisty, supportive grandmother, make this an enjoyable holiday read. VERDICT Douglas's debut is a gift for rom-com readers looking for more charm than heat.--Jenny Kobiela-Mondor
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