Review: Candy Canes in Chicago

 

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Jack

Following my bitter divorce earlier this year, I’m making it my mission to ensure my nine-year-old daughter Norah has an amazing Christmas. We’re flying to my hometown of Chicago to spend it with my parents, and Norah will get a sweet taste of the Christmas spirit—literally, since my parents operate the biggest candy store in our suburb.

But before we even get on the plane, things start going wrong...starting with Norah disappearing in the airport. I’ve never been so worried, but fortunately, a kind stranger locates her hiding out in the ladies’ room. A stranger who, apart from being the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen, is also a bit of a mystery. She’s headed the same place we are, and she, like Norah, seems like she could use a dose of Christmas spirit too...and suddenly, all I want to do is anything to make her smile.

Sophie

If I never see Chicago again, it’ll be too soon. Then ten years I’ve been gone since graduating high school haven’t been the best, and I feel like the family loser for not having my life figured out.

But when my grandma, the only member of my family who really gets me, falls and breaks an ankle, I’m willing to put everything aside to take care of her.

The last thing I expect is to meet a little girl hiding under the airport bathroom sink. Eventually, she agrees to let me help her find her dad, who turns out to be a heart-stoppingly gorgeous businessman doing his best as a single dad. He’s headed to Chicago too and invites me to visit them. I can’t deny that I want to see him again more than anything...and that terrifies me.

I only came home to take care of my grandma, but it seems like my plans—and maybe my whole life—are about to change.

Genre: contemporary romance

Publication date: December 2021

Mature content: yes

Review: I read this book during the Christmas break but I've only found the time now to post a review. I can't say that Candy Canes in Chicago is overall bad, but I didn't find it all that great either. 

It starts out more or less ok, but after a short while the story becomes absolutely predictable and too cheesy. Some of the situations are, frankly, slightly unrealistic and the whole purpose for Sophie's travel to Chicago isn't entirely convincing either since her grandmother with the supposed broken ankle is out and about as if nothing had happened - going to bingo with her friends, cooking and cleaning, etc. 

As Christmas romances go, this one left me a bit deflated so I can't bring myself to actively recommend it.

Happy readings!

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