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Review: Terms and Traditions - The Reluctant Romantics #1

Terms and Traditions book cover on blue background

With Christmas coming in just a few months, it's the perfect opportunity to read the new Reluctant Romantics series by historical and now contemporary author, Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht.

Terms and Traditions introduces us to an unconventional office romance, church friends, and a family gathering that could rival the Addams family over the holidays.

Many thanks to the author for providing a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Book Synopsis

Fake dating my millionaire boss was not on my Christmas list, but I’m not complaining.

Stephanie:

I’ve kept my crush on Nash Prescott under wraps for two years. We might be friends, but I’m still his PA. Until that fatal office Christmas party when my frayed emotions had me opening my big mouth and asking Nash to spend the holidays with me at my dysfunctional family’s cabin… as my fake boyfriend. I’m not sure what’s more surprising—that I didn’t pass out when I asked or the fact he said yes.

But Nash offers up a twist of his own: dating for real. He’s all I ever wanted, but saying yes to more means opening myself up to even more heartbreak. And I’m terrified once the sugarplum haze of the holidays finally pops, we’ll find we’re really better off as friends.

Nash:

Hold all calls, Christmas came early. Having Stephanie propose fake dating while vacationing with her family for the holidays in snowy Jackson, Wyoming, means coming face to face with the man behind the biggest rival company for my marketing firm—Stephanie’s dad.

Won’t this Christmas be jolly. But Stephanie’s worth it despite all the initial rites of passage and barbs that fly our way. The only problem? Persuading Stephanie to take a chance on us for real. But if I play my cards right and prove to her I’m in for the long-haul, this might just be my favourite Christmas ever.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

Getting to read Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht's contemporary Christmas debut (twice!) has been a treat. The author has a knack for capturing friendships on the page that invite you into delightful banter with people who will have your back. As a result, it's wonderful to see Nash and Stephanie interact with their friends as part of the story. I appreciate that this story delves into some difficult family backgrounds while pointing to a future where God provides strength and possibilities for new beginnings.

Set during Christmas break with a host of Hallmark-like traditions, readers can enjoy getting to know some amazing characters who embody both generous and tough Christian love. This office romance is one that has been years in the making, so it's gratifying to see something real emerge in no time. If you're looking for a swoon-worthy hero who proves his commitment time and again, Terms and Traditions will have you breaking out the ugly Christmas sweaters while experiencing the healing power of God.

Book Summary

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