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Review: A Splash of Love - Once Upon a Novella #1

A Splash of Love book cover on blue background

I'll be one of the few to admit that I didn't grow up a fan of The Little Mermaid, but reading A Splash of Love by Jaycee Weaver helps me understand why others enjoy this story 😄 It really is a fantastical tale and this sweet Christian rendition is the perfect length for those wanting a splash of Christmas love any time of the year.

Book Synopsis

Las Vegas glitz meets Land of Enchantment culture in this faith-friendly modern twist on The Little Mermaid.

Casino mermaid Brie Finnegan yearns to trade her tail for the chance to pursue her passion for other cultures by curating her own museum. When Brie's boss dangles her dream job in exchange for securing a deal with the Reyes restaurateur family, Brie ventures to Albuquerque where she soon falls for more than the city's culture and holiday traditions.

To secure his family's place among restaurant royalty, Derek Reyes seeks to expand into the Las Vegas hotel market. Eager to meet the enigmatic mermaid he's observed on his many business trips, he inquires but nobody seems to know her identity. Instead, as a condition of the deal, he’s stuck on a trip home for the holidays with Sirene’s silent assistant. Still, there’s just something about her…

The moment they’re ready to risk it all for love, a nefarious plot lurking under the surface emerges to threaten everything they’ve dreamed and worked for. To make their happily ever after a reality, Brie must first uncover the depths of the malevolent scheme and save her prince before time runs out.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

I really like how inventive this story is, starting off with a woman who works as a mermaid at her family's hotel in Las Vegas, which isn't the usual meet-cute; however, in this case, it is. The premise is sweet, with Brie being unable to speak whenever Derek is around. Getting to meet Derek's family again is a lovely reunion after encountering them in Unkissable. Being able to witness the Christian content in this book through the Reyes’ eyes creates an enjoyable book as they provide gentle and loving encouragement to others. Though Brie faces unexpected villainy in her story, I appreciate that she is also a woman of faith who rises above her circumstances to be gracious toward those around her.

This is a quick novella that has me chuckling at Brie and Derek's interactions and smiling at their growing affection for one another. The spiritual conversations feel natural, and Brie's found family has me wanting to meet Abuela. Derek also provides some spiritual insight into religious practices in New Mexico, granting a different perspective on how people celebrate Christmas. If The Little Mermaid is up your alley, A Splash of Love delivers a refreshing romance where a voice is found and a new family is built with God at the centre.

Book Summary

  • Format of book: 📱
  • Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Recommendation: 👍
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