whatirinreads_18's reviews
267 reviews

This was a fun holiday romance that brings together bitter exes, forced proximity, and a dash of professional rivalry. Jess, a romance writer who loves happy endings, gets snowed in with her ex, Nick, who’s now a bestselling author known for his sad love stories. Their “one bed” scenario leads to plenty of witty banter, bringing back old feelings and frustrations.

While I enjoyed the holiday vibes and lighthearted tone, I did wish the characters had a bit more emotional depth. Their chemistry was strong, but their motivations and inner struggles could have been explored more. Still, it’s a cozy, entertaining read that’s perfect for fans of second-chance romances looking for a festive escape! 🎄

I loved every single moment of reading Ready or Not. This is my favorite contemporary read of the year so far! 💫

"If you put it into perspective, the worst moments of your life were also when you had to persevere. Now that you've made it through the other side, it all depends on your perspec- tive. Isn't it a testament to your strength, having endured those challenging times and prevailed?"

Dallergut Dream Department Store is the kind of book that sneaks up on you and leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve turned the final page. This heartwarming  story about a store that sells dreams to resonated with me deeply. I found myself pondering over how profound certain quotes were in the book many times while reading. It’s whimsical and comforting, and truly a story that gives you a safe space to feel your emotions to the fullest degree.

The story follows Penny, a new employee at Dallergut Dream Department Store, where customers can purchase any kind of dream imaginable. There’s something truly magical about being able to choose your dreams, whether it’s reliving a cherished memory, meeting a lost loved one, or even living the lives of others for a few mins to understand how lucky you are in your own life.

What I loved most about this book is how it captures the wonder of dreams, blending fantasy with the everyday struggles we face in life. Penny’s curiosity and eagerness to learn made me feel connected to her journey, and Dallergut, the store’s owner, had this warm, wise presence that felt like a hug on tough days. The book itself is cozy, like a cup of your favorite drink, and it doesn’t try to overwhelm you with dramatic plot twists or heavy conflicts. Instead, it just invites you to explore this magical world and reflect on the importance of dreams. The dreams in the story serve as mirrors for our subconscious—sometimes showing us what we desire, other times warning us or helping us process emotions. It’s a reminder that even our nightmares have value.

Overall, Dallergut Dream Department Store is one of those rare books that sneaks up on you with its charm and leaves you feeling both comforted and inspired. It’s not just a whimsical tale about selling dreams; it’s a story that makes you reflect on the meaning behind your own. If you’re looking for a book that feels like a gentle escape from reality, this is it. Highly recommend it, especially if you’re searching for something light yet meaningful to curl up with. 💚❤️

Many thanks to Definitely Books #partner for sending me a copy to review!

Many thanks to @definitelybooks #partner for the review copy!
Hannah Bonam-Young has been on my radar for ages, but I just read my first book from her, Next Of Kin, just last week ~ which my friends, was a BIG MISTAKE, because my gosh, I absolutely fell in love with the writing style! This book was filled with all the heart-warming and cosy vibes that I adore. The storyline concerning Child Protective Services and then being in charge of raising sublings was something I had never read before. So I really enjoyed delving into a different kind of romance! Warren and Chloe were so great together, and I loved their chemistry! Their mutual concern for each other's siblings melted my heart. 😭 The found family trope never fails to mesmerize me for real. 😭
I loved how the book had a lighthearted feeling, even with the heavy topics being discussed.
I am really looking forward to the next book in the series!
Rating: 4/5 💫, Open Door romance