Review: Snow Place Like Home by Laura Pavlov
There’s something undeniably magical about holiday stories, isn’t there? They have a way of wrapping you up like a cozy blanket on a chilly winter night. I was drawn to Snow Place Like Home (Home Sweet Holidays) by Laura Pavlov, not just because it promised a love story nestled in the snow but also for its intriguing premise of rekindled childhood crushes and family ties. Something about that classic "brother’s best friend" trope just tugged at my heartstrings. Having recently gone through my own relationship ups and downs, I was eager to dive into Goldie and Ace’s world.
Set against the backdrop of a fictional small town and during her brother’s wedding festivities, Goldie Jacobs, our recently single veterinarian, returns home to confront not just her feelings about a past love but also a long-standing crush on her brother’s best friend, Ace Bonetti, a Hollywood star. Their chance reunion during a snowy night leads to laid-back, flirty exchanges and inevitable chemistry. For anyone who enjoys the whimsical nature of Hallmark movies, this story provides just the right mix of holiday cheer and romance.
While the plot had all the elements I long for—a charming small-town setting, a sprinkle of snow, a swoon-worthy hero, and a heroine who is relatable and grounded—my enthusiasm was somewhat dampened by its execution. Clocking in at just 57 pages, it felt like a rush to the altar—and not just due to the wedding theme. Goldie and Ace’s connection, which has simmered for years, goes from zero to sixty in what felt like mere hours, and while I appreciate the limitations of writing within a short story format, I wish there had been a bit more room for the emotional beats to breathe, allowing for deeper character development.
On a positive note, the dual first-person perspective gave insight into both characters’ feelings, expertly reflecting their long-standing chemistry. I found myself laughing at Goldie’s reactions to her “cheating ex,” and Ace’s charm was evident from the start. However, the quick pacing left me yearning for that slow burn that can make falling in love feel that much more delicious.
And let’s talk about that wedding! The audacity of having a wedding on Christmas Day? It’s both beautiful and a bit impractical in my eyes! Who wouldn’t prefer their big day to steal the limelight—especially during the holidays?
Overall, Snow Place Like Home is perfect for readers seeking a light, feel-good romance to warm their hearts this holiday season. If you enjoy sweet stories where childhood friends blossom into something more, then Goldie and Ace will certainly entertain you—even if they don’t quite meet the hallmark of refinement seen in the rest of the series.
As I close the chapter on this cozy read, I find myself reflecting on its sweetness, albeit with a slight tinge of bittersweet longing for more depth. Perhaps the magic of the holidays lies in that very juxtaposition. For those of you who revel in festive romances, this one might just be your cup of cocoa. Happy reading!
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