⭐⭐⭐⭐ Was I hooked by that book? Yes. Christmas brings family together and ignites a new romance in a story that is wholesome, charming, and heartwarming.
When Ed Penrose returns to Halfmoon Quay unannounced after months working in the Caribbean, he’s just looking forward to sleeping in his own bed. But unbeknownst to him, his picturesque cottage by the sea has been rented out to Frankie Webber, the fiercely guarded star of a hit TV show. Frankie fled to Cornwall to escape from the public spotlight, so Ed’s arrival at her door is both untimely and unwelcome. Their friendship doesn’t get off to the smoothest start, but as Ed helps Frankie discover the magic of a Cornish Christmas, something begins to change. Ed is only home for a few weeks and Frankie’s career is waiting in London, but as she is swept up in the welcoming warmth of the boisterous Penrose clan, Frankie feels her defenses lowering. Can a man trying to outgrow his reputation as the family liability and a woman afraid of trusting anyone be a match? Or will their chance of a festive romance fade when the new year begins?
MY THOUGHTS
Ed was the embodiment of a nice guy. He loved his family, he noticed things, he respected Frankie’s boundaries, and he helped out everywhere. He was just struggling to figure out where he fit in. Frankie’s outward confidence was hiding some serious insecurities and fears. I liked her, but I didn’t like her one-foot-in-one-foot-out attitude towards Ed and the other people of the village.
This book was fade-to-black, but that didn’t make the romance any less intense. Frankie and Ed’s fire burned bright and hot. They were living in so much denial about their real feelings. Mostly, the story centered around the town, all the Christmassy events, and Ed’s large family. And, of course, their growing doubts about their respective future plans.
I can highly recommend this entire series if you like small towns, big families, and a sweet, non-spicy romance. It’s not necessary to read the books in order, but it might help to keep track of all the characters.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Were you hooked by that book? Let me know in the comments below.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Published: August 28, 2026
Sensuality Rating: Subtle
Series: Book 4 of Halfmoon Quay
