Escape to the snow-covered streets of Amsterdam in this deeply romantic read, featuring twists, turns and characters you’ll fall in love with.

Out October 2020

448 Pages

MY THOUGHTS:

I received this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

I’ve had the pleasure of reading and reviewing all of Karen Swan’s books and always look forward to reading the next. I’ve even had the pleasure of interviewing Ms. Swan and found her intelligent, worldly and an amazing woman.

This book is complex, which is standard Swan expectation, full of historical notations and intrigue. This book is full of suspense, tension and secrets. For me, this was the first Karen Swan book that I couldn’t relate to the character and feel her growth throughout the story. Nor, could I get into the setting as it switched back and forth at times. Although a Christmas story, and yes, there were many Christmas elements included making it a “holiday book,” I just didn’t feel the vibe as I should. Secrets, secrets, intrigue, complexities, sexual undercurrents… all present. This was a powerful book, insightful and well-written. Swan pulls off another great piece of writing, and the romance is hot and tense.

I loved this book and didn’t, if that makes sense. It’s wonderfully written, but not really with the same holiday zest and zeal. Many sections in the book were extreme and dark, important to the story, but sometimes hard to read. An interesting concept by Swan and I wonder if her writing is going in a more real, punch in the gut direction that will eventually lead her out of writing holiday books. Regardless of what Swan writes, I’m a fan and look forward to seeing where her incredible talent takes us next.

I gave this book: