Book Review: “Pining Over You” by J.N. Welsh

“Pining Over You” by J.N. Welsh (2020)

Genre: Christmas, Holidays, Romance, Contemporary

Page Length: 143 pages (paperback edition)

Synopsis:

Vermont nights might get a little cold, but Sasha Merry has her work to keep her warm. Running the family farm has always been her dream, and this year it’s her time to shine. Sasha won’t let anything stand in the way of her plans. So when her most valuable employee gets hurt right before Christmas, she will do whatever it takes to prove to her father that she is up to the job, even if it means accepting help from the man who broke her heart.

Rodney Chestnut is finally back home in Charlotte, Vermont after years of living the adventurous life he has always dreamed of. Rodney lives his life without regrets, but being back in town, he’s face-to-face with his only one—Sasha Merry. There was a time when he owned Sasha’s heart, and then he broke it. After years of putting his ambitions first, seeing Sasha again reminds him that he’s neglected his heart.

Swept up in a blizzard of their old memories, the old flames start roaring immediately. The passions between them have always blazed hot, but the question is, will they be brave enough to take a chance on love or will their dreams lead them on separate paths all over again? (description from Goodreads)

Review:

Full of holiday festivities? ✓

A Christmas tree farm that gives off all the cozy feels? ✓

A rekindling romance between two former friends/flames? ✓

If all of those elements pique your interest Pining For You might be the book for you. This novel is a romance novel that is perfect for those seeking a feel-good holiday romance read. It’s a tale about Sasha, who desperately wants to prove that she is capable of taking on ownership of the tree farm that’s been in their family for years. Having Rodney return to town shakes things up and brings up unresolved feelings from the past. On the other hand, Rodney is excited to be back home but feels guilt over not visiting as much as he could and how things ended with Sasha. Will this holiday reunion be a chance for them to make things right?

This novel was a short and fast-paced read with a solid festive-themed plot that readers will enjoy. From the cookie baking contests to surveying the beautiful snowy landscape on the farm, and the quiet tender moments between family and friends. This story was such a joy to read and it put me in a holly jolly mood. I liked the progression of Sasha and Rodney’s romance and for Welsh taking the time to also heal wounds from the past by clearing up misunderstandings. The romance is sweet, with many steamy moments as a whole. Most of all I liked reading about the routine and people on the Merry farm and watching their families come together to keep traditions alive.

A fun and merry romance read I recommend for the holiday season! I’ve reviewed one of Welsh’s novels before non the blog and I can’t wait to read more of her works.

Final Verdict:

FTC Disclaimer: I received this book from Honey Magnolia PR in exchange for a fair and honest review.