Wrapped With a Beau by Lillie Vale

Release: September 26th, 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: ‎ G.P. Putnam’s Sons
Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

In its heyday, Piney Peaks and its beloved Christmas House were made famous by Sleighbells, a romantic holiday movie. 50 years later, the small town is ready for a new love story.

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 a sequel to Sleighbells, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to make sure everything goes smoothly. Unfortunately, that includes claiming to have already secured permission to film at the historic Christmas house—permission she was very much denied by the gorgeous new owner.

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 undeniable charm of neighbor Elisha. Ready to return home to New York as quickly as possible, 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 unquestionably 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.

About the Author:

Lillie Vale is the author of books for both teens and adults, including Wrapped with a Beau, The Decoy Girlfriend, Beauty and the Besharam, The Shaadi Set-Up and Small Town Hearts, an American Library Association’s 2020 Rainbow Books List selection. She writes about secrets and yearning, complicated and ambitious girls who know what they want, the places we call home and people we find our way back to, and the magic we make. Born in Mumbai, she grew up in Mississippi, Texas, and North Dakota, and now lives in an Indiana college town. Find her on Twitter @LillieLabyrinth and Instagram @labyrinthspine, or visit her website lillielabyrinth.com.rem Ipsum

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Wrapped With a Beau Review:

The book’s concept, centered around classic holiday movies, greatly appealed to me as a fan of such films. Despite the narrative being in the third person, a style I typically don’t favor, it didn’t detract from my ability to connect with the characters. I particularly relished the dual points of view in different chapters, providing insights from both Elisha and Ves.

The standout of the story was the chemistry between the two characters. Although Ves initially came across as cold and distant, I thoroughly enjoyed witnessing the gradual closeness and the adorable relationship that blossomed between him and Elisha. His transformation from guarded to open-hearted brought a smile to my face. I significantly cherished how he evolved into a warm, patient, and considerate character, mirroring the warmth and positive energy that Elisha exuded. What began as a faux romance eventually transformed into an uncomplicated connection, with a bittersweet twist when Ves had to return to New York. Amid the holiday celebrations, Ves not only unraveled the stories of his great aunt but also found himself falling deeply in love with Elisha.

Lillie crafted delightful dialogues that added charm to the narrative. While the book carried a lighthearted tone, it also delved into profound themes, including feelings of inadequacy in parent-child relationships and the profound impact of death. I admired how the author handled these sensitive topics carefully, ensuring their portrayal was genuine and touching.

The setting of Piney Peaks was utterly enchanting, resembling a picturesque Hallmark-style town that came to life brilliantly within the story.

Suppose you’re searching for a heartwarming story that transports you to a cozy Christmas town with endearing side characters and a charming love story. In that case, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this book a read.