Once Upon a December, a review by Sherry

Once Upon a December
Amy E Reichert

336 pages
Berkley Books
published October 4, 2022

Amazon | Goodreads

A quaint Christmas love story sprinkled with some magical realism. There was so much to like in this one. I loved the fierce friendship between Astra, Ronnie, Cassie and Steph. It’s so great to read strong women characters supporting each other (even if it brought a slight tear to my eye at one point). I loved that they stood the test of time and were there for each other through thick and thin. I absolutely adored Bernie and the shenanigans Astra got him into. What a good bad dog. LOL

And of course I liked the sweet romance in the novel and the way the book kept Jack and Astra separated. I must admit that was a new one for me. They seemed perfect for each other, drawn together with their love for all things Christmas.

I am not always a fan of magical realism, but this one had the right mix of Christmas magic and reality. Because we all know from a young age that all things Christmas really are magic. And when I googled that kringle pastries are real, they looked so delicious.

This is a good mix of Christmas, friendships and love to get you in the holiday spirit.

About the book:

With a name like Astra Noel Snow, holiday spirit isn’t just a seasonal specialty—it’s a way of life. But after a stinging divorce, Astra’s yearly trip to the Milwaukee Christmas market takes on a whole new meaning. She’s ready to eat, drink, and be merry, especially with the handsome stranger who saves the best kringle for her at his family bakery.

For Jack Clausen, the Julemarked with its snowy lights and charming shops stays the same, while the world outside the joyful street changes, magically leaping from one December to the next every four weeks. He’s never minded living this charmed existence until Astra shows him the life he’s been missing outside of the festive red brick alley.

After a swoon-worthy series of dates, some Yuletide magic, and the unexpected glow of new love, Astra and Jack must decide whether this relationship can weather all seasons, or if what they’re feeling is as ephemeral as marshmallows in a mug of hot cocoa.

 

 

 

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