A December To Remember by Jenny Bayliss: An Emotionally-Charged Holiday Reunion #bookreview @penguinaudio #jennybayliss #elizabethsastre

A December to Remember is a heartwarming holiday tale of three diverse half-sisters reuniting to face whimsical challenges, weaving family, nostalgia, and romance into a cozy and entertaining narrative.

From The Publisher:

Three bickering half-sisters must come together to compete in a series of wacky challenges to access their inheritance in winsome holiday story from the author of The Twelve Dates of Christmas.

Wildly different half-sisters Maggie, Simone, and Star have hardly seen each other since their sprightly summers at Rowan Thorp, their eccentric father Augustus’s home. Known for the fruitful ways in which his bustling knick-knack shop kept the tired town afloat, Augustus was loved by all and known by none, not even his daughters.

Now, years later, the three estranged women are unexpectedly reunited at the reading of Augustus’s will. Maggie, Simone, and Star are shocked to find out that Augustus has engineered a series of hoops through which the three women must jump to unlock their inheritance—the last thing any of them want to do. But Maggie and Star desperately need the money. And who would Simone be to resist? 

Through hilarious goose chases, community mishaps, and one heart-warming Winter Solstice celebration, love, hope, and reconciliation is in the air, if only the three sisters can let themselves grasp it.

My Thoughts:

“A December To Remember” by Jenny Bayliss is a touching holiday story that centers on three half-sisters – Maggie, Simone, and Star – who are as different as can be. The novel is a heartening blend of family dynamics, quirky challenges, and the magic of the holiday season, with the added touch of romance.

The publisher’s synopsis sets the stage for the story as the sisters, who have hardly seen each other since their summers at their father Augustus’s eccentric home, are unexpectedly brought together for the reading of his will. Augustus, a beloved yet mysterious figure in their lives, has left behind a series of wacky challenges that the sisters must complete to access their inheritance. The narrative takes us through amusing goose chases, community mishaps, and a heartwarming Winter Solstice celebration as the sisters embark on this unexpected journey.

What I particularly enjoyed about “A December To Remember” is the diversity in the central characters’ personalities. Each sister brings a unique perspective to the story, especially when it comes to their views on romance. The contrast in their attitudes adds depth to the narrative and makes their interactions engaging.

The reunion of the three half-sisters, who once shared unforgettable summers with their father, is a touching element of the story. It brings a sense of nostalgia and rekindles the bond that had been lost over the years.

The quirkiness of their father’s estate and the hurdles the sisters must overcome to fulfill his final wishes add an entertaining twist to the plot. It’s a delightful and imaginative concept that keeps the reader invested in the story’s unfolding.

While “A December To Remember” is somewhat predictable, it fits the cozy holiday romance genre. I did find it a bit lengthy, and it lacked the humor I typically seek in a romantic comedy. Nevertheless, the novel succeeded in keeping me entertained with its heartfelt storyline.

Elizabeth Sastre’s narration of the book deserves praise. Her enthusiasm and tone make for an easy and enjoyable listening experience, adding another layer to the book’s charm.

In summary, “A December To Remember” is a touching tale of family, love, and reconciliation. It may not break new ground in the genre, but it offers a comforting and delightful holiday read for those who appreciate a mix of quirky challenges and the magic of the season.

Other Books I’ve Reviewed Written by Jenny Bayliss:

A Season For Second Chances

The Twelve Dates of Christmas