Forced proximity, a shared hometown, and opposite family dynamics drive this combination of it’s always been you (for him) and frenemies to lovers (for her) holiday-themed romance. 

Hazel Elliot has carefully crafted her life to avoid conflict. She doesn’t let her friends get too close, maintains literal and physical distance from many she previously dated, and works with a professor she doesn’t particularly enjoy. She maintains things are better this way even when she desires more because you can’t fail if you never try. Then, suddenly, she feels compelled to share her innermost secrets with Ash, and she finds it unnerving. 

Ash Campbell is a fixer, a caregiver, and the frequent occupant of Hazel’s favorite chair in her favorite coffee shop. While Hazel acts like his sworn enemy, he fondly remembers the Hazel he knew in high school. While he tries to fix everyone else, he has been ignoring himself (clear enneagram two here) and no longer has a way to get home. Enter Hazel, a snowstorm, and one bed…

While this book takes place during the holidays, it doesn’t feel overwhelming Christmas-themed. The main characters actively deal with their flaws, and their complexity makes this romance feel mature, well-rounded, and, my favorite, realistic. Both characters must reckon with their feelings towards their parents and acknowledge their growing attraction. 

The audio performance here is incredible. Both Brittany Pressley and the male narrator (Zachary Webber) bring their respective characters warmth, depth, and the emotional impact that elevates each word. Their gravely voices complement each other so well that I both enjoyed the changing POV and never craved the other narrator.

It is an incredible debut novel, and I am already coveting her sophomore novel, which will be published in July 2025! 

If you love road trips, complicated parent relationships, and a tiny bit of Christmas vibes, I highly recommend you pick this one up!