I always like to share my reading experience with others because it helps me improve my understanding of the book and helps me to connect and engage in meaningful conversation with my fellow book reading community members. That’s why I have been excited to share my picks about the best novel for December 2023. I have read quite a few novels this month. Some of these novels have really touched my heart, and I am eager to share my thoughts & notions about them. Moreover, I read “Lana Ferguson’s The Fake Mate, which was fun, and Rina Kent’s God of Fury was steamy. Katherine Faulkner’s “The Other Mothers” presented a thrilling turn.
At the same time, I visited 1789 Maine with Ariel Lawhon’s “The Frozen River.” “Hissy Fit” by Mary Kay Andrews brought Southern charm, and Devney Perry’s “Sable Peak: 6” concluded The Edens series sweetly. December became a month of thrilling literary travels, thanks to each book presenting its picture in the holidays.. Each New Book Releases give me a best read in this holidays. “
10 New Book Releases of December:
The Must reads books list given below:
- Ruthless Vows (Letters of Enchantment, #2) by Rebecca Ross
- Heartstopper: Volume Five (Heartstopper, #5) Alice Oseman
- This Spells Love by Kate Robb
- Same Time Next Year Tessa Bailey
- The Fake Mate by Lana Ferguson
- God of Fury (Legacy of Gods, #5) by Rina Kent
- The Other Mothers by Katherine Faulkner
- The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
- Hissy Fit by Mary Kay Andrews
- Sable Peak the Edens #6 By Devney Perry
Ruthless Vows (Letters of Enchantment, #2) by Rebecca Ross:
Introduction:
A gift for fantasy enthusiasts! I just had to share my excitement about “Ruthless Vows,” the sequel to the spellbinding “Divine Rivals.” Ross did it again, creating a captivating world with Iris, Roman, and those feuding factions. It’s like being pulled into a magical adventure filled with love and twists that keep you hooked. If you’re into must-reads that mix magic, excitement, and romance flawlessly, “Ruthless Vows” is your jam! Trust me; it’s an immersive experience you don’t want to miss.
Ruthless Vows Review:
After falling in love with Divine Rivals, I was super excited about “Ruthless Vows.” However, it didn’t live up to my expectations. It was published on December 26, 2023. I wanted more of Roman and Iris reconnecting in the middle of a war or an expanded discourse on Dacre and Enva’s complications. However, the story went somewhere in between and did not fully address either aspect.
| Publisher | Wednesday Book |
| Published Date | First published December 26, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 432 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 1250857457 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-1250857453 |
The love letters between the characters were sweet and kept me hooked on them. I’m a little bit disappointed overall, though. Despite all that, though, the characters and their understated emotions kept me hooked, even though I felt this could have been better if only there were a grander plot of war.
Theme:
“Ruthless Vows” was okay, but I missed the deep emotions and longing for love that I loved in the first book. The story felt like a series of chance meetings, and it would’ve been better with characters making active choices. The relationships, especially with the godlike Enva, left me wanting more. Rebecca Rose 1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author really impressed me with her story telling style.
Enva’s actions seemed unclear, and I expected more impact from such a significant character. I wished for a more purposeful and thoughtful approach to Iris and Roman’s fate. While there were some fun parts, it didn’t have the emotional depth and complex plot twists that made “Divine Rivals” great a few years ago.
Main Characters:
- Iris: Iris embarks on a journey that involves love and destiny as she tries to restore Roman’s memories in the midst of heavenly rivalries.
- Roman: As Roman battles with repressed memories, he has to deal with the depth of his past life while battling their inescapable relationship, as represented by Iris.
- Enva: It describes a supernatural being with arcane intentions whose actions determine the fate of Iris and Roman, elevating their fates to otherworldly heights.
- Dacre: With a presence lingering from the past, it seems as if Dacre’s legacy continues to cast shadows on all that happens in whatever unfolds among Iris and Roman.
Heartstopper: Volume Five (Heartstopper, #5) by Alice Oseman:
Introduction:
Step into the wonderful world of “Heartstopper: Volume Five,” where the charming tale of British schoolboys Charlie and Nick unfolds. It was published in December 7, 2023. Created by the talented 29-year-old Alice Oseman, this graphic novel series originated as a webcomic a decade ago and has evolved into a global sensation, even inspiring a Netflix adaptation.
Following the heartwarming journey of friends and roommates Nick and Charlie as they navigate high school and the uncertainties of college choices, the series is a beloved read, with over 8 million copies sold worldwide. Full of warmth and sincerity, it’s a delightful experience for readers of all ages.
Heartstopper: Volume 5 Review:
In “Heartstopper: Volume Five,” Nick and Charlie continue their journey, but this time, the cover and art style change, and not for the better. The art feels less detailed, and confusing locations make it harder to follow. The author’s busy schedule affected the narrative, making it feel like filler content. I miss the emotional depth from previous volumes, although there’s a significant moment at the fun fair.
| Publisher | Hodder Children’s Books |
| Published Date | First published December 19, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 336 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 133880748X |
| ISNB-13 | 978-1338807486 |
The absence of their friends, Nick Howard, and others, made it less appealing. However, the series still holds promise, and Michael’s role adds something special. Despite the changes, the heartfelt connection between Nick and Charlie keeps the story engaging
Plot of the Story:
In “Heartstopper: Volume Five,” the main idea is about Nick and Charlie’s growing love. They share their feelings and face challenges as a couple. But when Nick is getting ready for university, new problems come up. The story talks about the excitement and uncertainty of facing changes. Will their love stay strong during life’s twists? Written by Alice Oseman, the comic shows how young relationships develop, connecting with honesty and familiar feelings. It’s a touching story about growing up and the lasting strength of true friendship.
Authentic Characters:
- Charlie: Meet Charlie, the heart and soul of this story. He boldly came out last year and today is dealing with the ups and downs of a relationship with Nick.
- Nick: Charlie’s classmate is Nick – a charming rugby player. He recently realized that he is bisexual and has become part of a loving couple with Charlie. Together, they set the journey of love and self-discovery.
In this volume, their connection becomes deeper as they tackle the obstacles of growing up and are forced to deal with the uncertainty that comes from changing relationships.
This Spells Love by Kate Robb:
Introduction:
A delightful for romance lovers, “This Spells Love” by Kate Robb is a charming tale that effortlessly blends comedy and romance with a sprinkle of enchantment. It was Published on Dec. 5, 2023. Gemma, in her quirky quest to cleanse her heart of a past love, hilariously finds herself living an entirely different life.
The story unfolds in a humorous and relatable manner, exploring the age-old question of ‘what if.’ Gemma and Dax’s heartwarming connection adds a cozy touch to the narrative. In her enchanting debut novel, Robb presents a sassy and clever read that will leave readers contemplating the wonders of love and the unpredictable twists of life. Get ready for a joyous and whimsical journey through the pages of this spellbinding love story.
This Spells Love Review:
Kate Robb’s “This Spells Love” becomes a pleasant retreat into romance combined with humor, magic, and self-discovery. Gemma’s road, through an odd love charm sends a charming addition to the story. The characters, especially Gemma and Dax, are like friends with whom you want to hang around. However, the spicy scenes were formulaic and lacked a strong blaze.
| Publisher | Dial Press Trade |
| Published Date | First published December 5, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 352 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 0593596536 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-0593596531 |
The plot was engaging and kept a steady pace, but sometimes felt somewhat slow in the middle. This is best romance book with twists & turns. The ending was heartwarming but left something to ask by leaving questions about characters in another timeline. The mad dash towards the end left me curious about so much more that remained untold in that reality. None of these points takes away from the overall lightness and romantic essence that makes this book a pleasurable one to read for someone looking for a charming escape.
Plot of the Story:
This Spells Love is a fun ride into love mixed with the uplift of enchantment. It weaves a fable of misery, enchantment, and unlikely love. The story unfolds as Gemma navigates the aftermath of a breakup and an accidental spell, but it does so with charm. While the magic aspect may well require more depth, I feel that this is a lovely way to escape for those who want something lighthearted in terms of romance. It has endearing characters and a candid love story, but it will take you on this journey of relationships so delicately that there is just magic sprinkled upon it.
Characters:
- Gemma: Take, for instance, “This Spells Love” by Kate Robb, where Gemma is the moderately familiar girl who finds love and also souls with intricacies that are difficult to understand. A recent breakup turns her into a participant in the spell gone bad, and she ends up in an alternative reality. The story of Gemma is full of weakness and personal learning as she deals with previously unknown feelings and unconventional relationships.
- Dax: Dax is Gemma’s best friend in the story. First, being unnoticed, Dax becomes the center of Gemma’s deal to undo the spell. It lends depth to the story, making his character a friend and much more.
Same Time Next Year by Tessa Bailey:
This is the delightful novella “Same Time Next Year” by Tessa Bailey was published December 1, 2023, unraveling the charming tale of Britta, an ambitious waitress, and Sumner, an aspiring NHL hockey player. On the brink of a new year, faced with the daunting prospect of securing a green card, Sumner proposes a fake marriage to Britta. Despite her no-dating rule for hockey players, Britta finds herself drawn to Sumner’s gentle demeanor.
The novella unfolds with a perfect blend of comedy, promise, and steamy moments as the couple navigates an unexpected arrangement. “Same Time Next Year” offers a swift and enjoyable read, seamlessly merging a sport romance with a dash of suspense, providing readers with a delightful escape into the world of unexpected connections.
Same Time Next Year Review:
I read Tessa Bailey’s new novella, “Same Time Next Year,” and things were cool until the steamy part hit on page 124; it made me deviate. I’ve read a few of her books, and they were always enjoyable to me with regard to the stories but not so much feeling in terms. All in all, the Britta and Sumner story has other engaging moments of tension-filled dialogue along with some touchingly humorous scenes that you’d ordinarily enjoy between characters, but again, as I already pointed out, those steamy, explosive scenarios can be a matter of taste for different people or possibly even just happened to surprise me.
| Publisher | Amazon Orignal Stories |
| Published Date | First published December 1, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 144 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 1662517912 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-1662517914 |
Theme:
In “Same Time Next Year,” the central theme revolves around the unexpected nature of love and dreams. Britta and Sumner enter a pseudo-marriage solely for a green card, but the story unfolds the complexities of relationships, ambitions, and love in this unconventional union. It’s a narrative brimming with hope, joy, and the quirks of love. The novella beautifully captures the notion that love can emerge unexpectedly, taking Britta and Sumner on an uplifting journey to discover the genuine connection blossoming between them.
Main Characters:
- Britta: I’m an ambitious Waitress who doesn’t date hockey boys. A talented local place is my second home, Sumner Mayfield’s Bar, and I like it a lot. He plays for the hockey team in school but might miss if he gets caught cheating.
- Sumner: I am a beast on ice and about to break into the NHL. Since I must obtain a green card, I will need to marry an American. I made a fake marriage proposal to Britta on New Year’s Eve because of being crazy in love.
The Fake Mate by Lana Ferguson:
Lana Ferguson’s “The fake mate” and was pleasantly surprised. It was published on December 5, 2023. Mackenzie Carter is a witty ER doctor under pressure to find the perfect mate and plays him by naming Noah Taylor impulsively as her fake boyfriend. Interventional cardiologist with a grumpy look, Noah unwillingly agrees. A bogus relationship to satisfy Mackenzie’s grandmother and keep Noah in his professional life.
This fake-mate act evolves unexpectedly when it turns into a real friends-with-benefits dynamic. As the lines blur together, Mackenzie and Noah transit through uncharted waters of love. This paranormal romantic comedy is sparked with humor and steamy moments as the lead characters navigate through, which are often complicated relationship territories accompanied by surprises that pop up when least expected.
The Fake Mate Review:
My first experience reading Lana Ferguson’s The Fake Mate made me pleasantly surprised. I was surprised by her story-telling style. Moreover, the twists & turns make her story more engaging, and I get down deeper into the story. The story, as the shifter elements are incorporated, still conserves its sense of a regular romance deeply embedded with Ferguson’s typical humor and compelling way of representing activities.
| Publisher | Berkley |
| Published Date | First published December 5, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 400 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 0593549376 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-0593549376 |
The novel is a great mixture of comedy, pathos, and fun all the way through. While it is a deviation from the traditional non-fantastic romance, The Fake Mate turns out to be an amusing and enticing short story. The book may appeal to you if you are a fan of Lana Ferguson, as it likely will capture your interest despite the fact that it forays into a new genre territory.
Main Idea:
Lana Ferguson’s “The Fake Mate” tells a story of undreamt love in a very comic and comical way. Mackenzie and Noah, who initially committed to a fake-mate relationship for the sake of satisfying Mackenzie’s grandmother while letting Noah save his professional career, begin accepting their real emotions. The story penetrates the world of societal pressures and relationship stigmas of love.
As Mackenzie and Noah move from a fake to friends friends-with-benefits relationship, the story addresses grey areas between convenience and true affection as it points out that love can happen when you least expect it or in any situation.
Characters:
- Mackenzie Carter: I am a young doctor trying to make my life after residency. I have a string of terrible dates and my grandmother on my back to find someone, so I fabricate this fake match, hiring someone else but the last person in the world that heaven did not intend for me- Noah Taylor.
- Noah Taylor: Being an interventional cardiologist, hiring out my alpha designation to the world at large is something I’ve developed a knack for keeping under wraps. I encountered a career dilemma threatened by exposure. Despite Mackenzie’s suggestion to be fake mates, it appears like an obvious solution at first glance; however, with the blurring of lines and deepening of feelings in a relationship show that faking is more complicated than one would imagine.
God of Fury (Legacy of Gods, #5) by Rina Kent:
The fifth book of Rina Kent’s Legacy series was “God of Fury.” It was published on December 6, 2023. I don’t usually read MM romance, but the suspense in the series made me curious about how things would play out if developed. This book surprised me with the powerful and magnetic romance between Nikolai and Brandon, which is trying something different.
The interesting feature of the story was their diversity of backgrounds and conflicting loyalties. As I proceeded to read further, several aspects of Nikolai’s character made him challenge my thoughts, which automatically would make the plot interesting. Instead of the usual hotness, “God of Fury” also demonstrates characters growing and turns that could not be foreseen from figures like Landon, who was somewhat mysterious earlier on.
God of Fury Review:
I have been eagerly waiting for Bran and Niko’s story in the Legacy of God series when Rina Kent didn’t disappoint me. The mysteriousness of what the entire series would bring kept me on edge till finally in this climax point, I witnessed an amazing warfare between passions and emotions that was brilliant enough to keep my focus glued. They became my favorite couple; it was God of Fury that topped MM books this year for me.
| Publisher | Blackthorn Books, LLC |
| Published Date | First published December 4, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 510 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 1685452191 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-1685452193 |
Nikolai, being passionate and straightforward in his ways, became one of my most beloved characters ever depicted on screen. Brandon’s measured and refined attitude was complemented perfectly by this lurid, brutish sunshine. Rina effortlessly interwoves their messy lives into the wider plot, and through this, she is able to dig deep into love, acceptance, and understanding oneself. God of Fury is a masterpiece that drips with love, and I can be tempted to start the journey again to watch or relive some magic.
Theme:
In God of Fury, the theme loosely describes a complicated affair between forbidden desires and otherwise detailed feelings. The story dives into the unpredictable romance of Nikolai, who is a lighthearted Russian bisexual in a mafia group, and an English athletic Brandon. It is set against the backdrop of conflicting loyalties and rivalries; the story delves into issues faced by an individual who wants to be their person with societal expectations.
Themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and attraction can no longer be separated as they create a very tense scenario with amazing connections that subvert the reader’s expectations. The characters journey through a maze that consists of the struggle between personal truths and societal norms, which makes their path much more complicated.
Main Characters:
- Brandon King: The magnetic leader of Royal Elite University’s lacrosse team. He is 23, earns a master’s degree in Art, and comes from an aristocratic English family. Brandon decides to take on the difficulties of his wealthy environment at REU with an identical twin, Id Landon.
- Nikolai Sokolov: The nineteen-year-old American, bisexual, and grandson of one greatest bosses in the Russian Mafia. Nikolai, destined for leadership in the Bratva, attends Kings University, a rival of REU. Nikolai, who is as brutal and sexually demanding as they come, lends an additional dimension to the developing narrative from God of Fury.
The Other Mothers By Katherine Faulkner:
Katherine Faulkner’s The Other Mothers was published on December 5, 2023. Introduces you to Natasha Carpenter having lots and lot of things on her hands. As a London journalist, Tash investigates the baffling murder committed by a nanny and finds herself threatened with danger by playgroup moms Claire Laure and Nicole. Faulkner builds suspense as he uses different timelines to describe the complexities of people’s lives.
Although the end is rather deserved, it does not solve all uncertainties. This film, being a psychological thriller, dramatically adds some soap opera touches with the introduction of these incredibly prolific characters, thus making it quite over-the-top. This does not stop Faulkner from succeeding in his attempts to reconcile suspense and soap opera features, providing a gripping but unidentifiably dramatic read.
The Other Monther:
Katherine Faulkner’s “The Other Mothers” is a riveting look at the dangerous crossroads of motherhood and wealth. In affluent London suburbs, the story unfolds within a playgroup where privileged mothers hide their dangerous undercurrents. Freelance writer Tash, who is on the case of a puzzling death involving the mysterious nanny, uncovers herself in a relationship with a playgroup. The characters are complex, with Sophie having an evolving complexity and Tash’s complicated relationships making the narration rich.
| Publisher | Gallery Books |
| Published Date | First published December 5, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 384 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 1668024780 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-1668024782 |
The author is masterful in sowing clues, making the boundaries between real and false hints ambiguous enough to leave a rewarding outcome.
While the storytelling prowess of Faulkner shines, a soap opera tone is struck by overloading drama into one subplot, thus making it less suspenseful. Despite it all, “The Other Mothers” puts Faulkner squarely in the realm of notable voices within domestic suspense and fulfills a thrilling and enlightening read.
Main Idea:
Katherine Faulkner’s “The Other Mothers” deals with the idea of revealing secrets within a seemingly perfect playgroup. Natasha Carpenter investigates the puzzling death of a nanny and sheds light on concealed tensions among playgroup mums. The story is about trust, deception, and the ugly underbelly of seemingly perfect lives. Faulkner delves into the complications of motherly relationships and punctuates this riveting story with intrigue while illustrating how soap opera elements compromise a facade of composure, making those left wondering if these connections are deep-rooted and absorbing narrative that draws the reader in.
Main Characters:
- Tash Carpenter: Tash is a journalist trying to balance work, parenting, and playgroup. She searches for the truth about a strange death nanny, Sophie Blake, who receives anonymous threats that shake her faith in people. Tash’s path to deception and menace reveals the ugly side of seemingly flawless lives.
- Sophie Blake: As a mother in the playgroup, secrets and suspense are part of her life as well as connecting others’ lives.
- Claire, Laura, and Nicole: These playgroup mothers depict lives of luxury, full of houses and dutiful men. This is a gripping narrative that reveals twists and psychological thrills as their stories unfold.
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon:
Ariel Lawhon’s “The Frozen River” was published on December 5, 2023; it surrounds readers with Martha Ballard, a strong midwife from the 1700s in New England. By respecting her skills and unconventional behavior, Martha does not take society seriously despite its expectations but is quite strong because of the support from her husband, Ephram. But I feel Martha’s life takes an unexpected turn when she investigates a body discovered in the icy river that is covered with snow to hide a murder.
With the death of one half of a duo accused of rape, it sparks unrest within a community that raises questions on justice, the fate of another accused, and when things would be back as they were. Lawhon masterfully tells a story that spans centuries, exploring morality, fairness, and the complexities of human interaction in small-town life. I felt thrust into a colorful historical tale with interesting characters who have moral challenges as Martha tries to understand the complications of life and death.
The Frozen River Review:
Ariel Lawhon’s prose flowed so smoothly that I was completely submerged in the world of her book from beginning to end with The Frozen River. Lawhon’s characters, particularly Martha Ballard, seemed very authentic right from the beginning, and her depiction of Martha’s husband, Ephram, gave an impression that it was a profound, enduring passion such as those seen in classic literary couples. The immersive nature of the experience blocked out everything else, which showed Lawhon to be quite a master storyteller.
| Publisher | Doubleday |
| Published Date | First published December 5, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 432 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 0385546874 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-0385546874 |
Regarding disadvantages, there is not much to criticize. The slow, deliberate pace suited the narrative, never appearing dull. On the other hand, my disappointment grew as the pages dwindled, a confirmation that it was a fascinating tale. Ultimately, The Frozen River is a brilliantly constructed historical novel that interweaves an array of engaging characters into the fabric of justice, survival, and love.
Theme:
Ariel Lawhon’s “The Frozen River” is a highly gripping historical mystery set in 1700s New England. It tells the story of Martha Ballard, a daring midwife who challenges social propriety and seeks to solve murder by icy river. The story is about justice, morality, and how difficult it is to deal with high-magnitude crime in a tight community. Lawhon tells the story detailing life, death, and our ultimate search for normalcy in a narrative artistry skill that satisfies us as we journey through history with strong character compelled by moralistic dilemmas.
Main Characters:
- Martha Ballard: The midwife of Hallowell, the Midas touch, defender of the womenfolk, and supporter of fairness.
- Rebecca Foster: The pastor’s wife, who is killed during a violent assault, pursues prosecution of the crime.
- Joshua Burgess: One of the rap*sts accused drowned in ice-cold waters, and Martha takes up his case.
- Colonel North: The second friend with motive, a powerful figure in Martha’s community.
Hissy Fit by Mary Kay Andrews:
I recently read a book by this fantastic author, Mary Andrews. She creates her stories in an unusual way where the heroines encounter problems initially but resurrect from there. Mary Kay Andrews’ novel introduces Keeley Murdock, whose society wedding goes down the drain, revealing betrayal and scandal in Hissy Fit. The subsequent turmoil in Keeley’s life comes against the backdrop of her interior decorating business, which is threatened by a strong family member associated with his unfaithful former fiancé.
The story follows Keeley through the daily struggles of her personal and professional life, taking you inside small-town Southern living, allowing for a bit of humor without resorting to stereotypes. The book is quite a success in terms of leading readers through the world of home decorating, evoking that Southern living spirit, and wrapping it all up into a mystery surrounding Keeley’s quest to find her missing mother. While the story takes on more characteristics of a women’s fiction than that of an ordinary romance, it deftly explores subjects like resilience and growth along with family dynamics, leading to something far bigger and complex, narratively speaking.
Hissy Fit Review:
Mary Kay Andrews’ Hissy Fit is an entertaining romp through old-world Southern gentility, heartache, and redemption in a small town. On the eve of her society wedding, life takes an unforeseen turn to Keeley Murdock becoming a resilient and spirited heroine. The novel tells a story about love, comedy, and mystery without neglecting the intricacies of Southern life.
It is a story of betrayal, rebuilding life, and vibrant characters such as Austin – the flamboyant florist Aunt Gloria who both supports Keeley but provides ample humor, too. The story is set in a small town, and it adds warmth to the tale; meanwhile, romance blends with mystery and personal development. Although this rush to romance at the end might feel a little rushed, in general, the whole thing is like an enjoyable Southern trip full of tantrums, laughter, and touching moments.
Theme:
Hissy Fit deals with Keeley Murdock’s adventures after her heartbreak, betrayal, and struggles in his small Southern town. The narrative is centered on Keeley’s strength and drive, as well as her quest to redeem herself both personally and professionally. Set within the context of interior decorating, Southern traditions, and a hint of mystique, there are sister themes here surrounding Keeley’s ability to bounce back from such a crisis as this, forge strength out of areas one wouldn’t usually expect, then navigate friendship with all its intricacies. The plot combines humor, personality development, and a pinch of romance, making it an entertaining story about self-development as well as adapting to unforeseen life experiences.
Main Characters:
- Keeley Murdock: The heroine of the story, who, despite facing sorrow and betrayal on her society wedding night, rises to toughness. A gifted interior decorator who wanted to remake her life.
- Ephram: Keeley’s faithful husband, standing by for Keely come what may.
- Austin: Keeley’s exuberant homosexual friend and florist who adds glow to her life.
- Will Mahoney: A smart and accomplished man living in Keeley’s small Southern town, who is dedicated to restoring the community.
- Stephanie: Will’s friend, in the beginning, appears to be an extremely one-dimensional worldview that is obsessed with consumerism.
- Aunt Gloria Keeley: An older aunt who advises and guides in challenging times.
Sable Peak The Edens #6 By Devney Perry:
Sable Peak: The Edens #6 by Devney Perry was published on December 7, 2023. It took me on a walk into a world of love, resilience, and normalcy in pursuit. Vera Gallagher, a woman who has lived through many trials and tribulations in her life, loves the freedom she now possesses. Devoted even with an unreciprocated love for Mateo Eden, she is enamored of his charm and deep family bonds.
She faces the prospect of a love that may remain unnoticed, deemed impossible due to her secrets in a small town. Perry tells a story of unreciprocated love, painting the picture of life in small towns and personal histories. Sable Peak offers a deep dive into the power of connection, healing, and love amidst life’s unpredictability.
Sable Peak: Final book Devney Perry The Edens #6 Review:
“Sable Peak: Final book Devney Perry The Edens #6 in the series of single dad romance lovers who are also best friends. Vera’s journey from isolation to finding love within the Eden family has an emotional depth and blossoms with romance. The story of Mateo, Vera, and little Allie develops as a touching narrative reflecting the power of love and acceptance.
| Publisher | Entangled: Amara |
| Published Date | First published December 7, 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 352 Pages |
| ISNB-10 | 1649376731 |
| ISNB-13 | 978-01649376731 |
However, to me, at times, the pacing seemed rushed – particularly in regard to how Vera and Mateo’s connection developed. Their relationship could have been more profound if they had taken things a bit slower. Nevertheless, the book is an excellent read, filled with real-life emotions and making a full stop to The Edens series. The number of characters and their relationships, coupled with the charm of a small-town setting, make it an excellent addition to the season.
Theme:
The theme centers on Vera Gallagher’s enduring love for a charming and handsome Mateo Eden, who is very much devoted to his family. As Vera tries to enjoy a newfound freedom and live an almost normal life, her past does not let them be truly happy, as she hides it. The beautiful theme highlights the intricacies of love, resilience, and the pursuit of a meaningful life set against an intimate community. Perry carefully unravels the suburban dynamics of a relationship, reflecting Vera’s emotions while highlighting how difficult it is for her to love Mateo. Sable Peak #6 offers a tender insight into unrequited love that highlights the prevailing strength of affection in the face of individual suffering.
Main Characters:
- Vera Gallagher: A strong and determined lady who is trying to reach normalcy after years of struggle. Her wholehearted love for Mateo defines her life journey.
- Mateo Eden: An attractive and amusing man who loves his family. She becomes a significant character in the unrequited love story partly involving him; he has no idea that Vera loves him.
Conclusion:
2023 saw a joyful selection of reads in December that warmed my heart and kindled my imagination. Lana Ferguson’s “The Fake Mate” was a perfect mix of humor and romance, with the fake relationship between Mackenzie and Noah turning into something beautiful. In “God of Fury,” Rina Kent carried on the Legacy of Gods series and successfully produced a steamy, tension-packed MM romance.
Katherine Faulkner’s “The Other Mothers” plunged me into a chilling thriller about the bourgeois suburbs with idiosyncratic soap opera details. Ariel Lawhon’s “The Frozen River” whisked me away to 1789 Maine in a masterful amalgamation of mystery and societal pressures.
Mary Kay Andrews’ “Hissy Fit” opened up as a great piece of Southern small-town life, with all the romance, mystery, and humor perfectly balanced. Devney Perry’s “Sable Peak: The Edens #6 gave a happy ending to the series about Vera and Mateo, who had loved each other but were just fast friends at last.
Overall, December’s reads provided a unique and intriguing assortment of books that found their special place in my literary adventures.