In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren
I’m going to keep today’s review of In a Holidaze short. Real short.
Synopsis
Groundhog’s Day but Christmas. If that’s too vague a reference, it means there is a time loop. And we must join the female lead as she relives a significant portion of Christmas vacation over, and over, and over, again.
Review
I enjoy the writing style of the duo Christina Lauren. And that’s why I was excited to read their latest book. But I didn’t know much about it before I picked it up. Time loops in films and TV shows can be hit or miss, but usually, I can enjoy them. I guess I don’t care for a time loop in a novel.
But it isn’t just the time loop I didn’t like the characters in the book, either. The two leads, Mae and Andrew, are sad. As in, it was depressing to read about them. This book is a rom-com more laughter and joy, please.
Also, the plot is not great. Aside from the ill-executed plot device, there was still a chance to enjoy the book. But I couldn’t figure out which existential crisis was the point of the plot. Is the book about a group of friends losing the home where they traditionally spend Christmas? Or is it about Mae having a come-to-Jesus moment and taking the reins of her life into her own hands?
And anytime there is a love triangle or one is eluded to, and two of the members are siblings, I’m out. I don’t find it plausible. So, any plot that uses that trope is not for me.
Rating 2/5
There you have it. One star because you wrote a book. That’s a star-worthy achievement. And one star, because I finished reading the book.
One Last Thing Before You Go...
I know I’ve torn In a Holidaze apart. But please, believe me, I have enjoyed a few of Christina Lauren’s other books. I think my favorite is the one I read first, Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating. And if you enjoy a close-proximity trope, I recommend giving Roomies or The Unhoneymooners a try.
