The Merry Matchmaker by Sheila Roberts
Description
[excerpt from Goodreads] Inspired by Jane Austen’s Emma, this joyful Christmas romp tells the story of a woman who can’t stop trying to help everyone around her find their happily-ever-after—even when her help leads to disaster.
Likes
Christmassy: This book is so festive, light-hearted, cozy, and sweet. It truly captures the magic of the season, and it’s made me a Sheila Roberts fan, for sure!
Humor: Frankie’s antics made me simultaneously roll my eyes and laugh, because who hasn’t known a similar person in their lives? She’s a lovable busybody who gets herself into trouble more than once.
Age of Heroine: Can I call Frankie a heroine? Because she is. Frankie is our main character, and she’s 50 and a grandmother (although a pretty young one!). Having an “older” character as the MC in a romance novel is not something I’m aware of as being common so it was refreshing, and brought about a different perspective than the 20-somethings that seem to typically grace this genre. Her story is sweet, it’s representative, and it’s lovely.
Eh
Perspectives: Frankie’s story is fun and light-hearted, with some serious notes throughout. Her sister Stef’s story, however, was a bit rushed. I actually wasn’t expecting the perspective change, and while I can appreciate what it lent to the storyline overall, I greatly preferred Frankie’s story (there’s a lot more of Frankie’s story, as well, so the perspectives aren’t balanced). It doesn’t take away from the book, really. Just not told as in depth as Frankie’s.
Recommendation & Rating
Do I recommend this book? Yes. It’s a fantastic book for the season. It’s easy to read, clean (no sex scenes, only mild innuendos; also, if there was any profanity, I don’t remember it), and incredibly festive. Pick it up if you get the chance!
Book source: I requested and received this book from NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing/MIRA. Thank you to both for access to the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
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If you want more Christmas bookish content, check out my review of Christmas Sweater Weather by Jacqueline Snowe and my Christmas TBR hopefuls!
