Review of THROUGH THE SNOW GLOBE by Annie Rains

ISBN-13:
9781496740847
Publisher:
Kensington
Publication date:
08/22/2023
Pages:
352

Synopsis

It’s a Wonderful Life meets Groundhog Day in USA Today bestselling author Annie Rains’ new novel, as a woman dangerously close to losing it all receives an unexpected Christmas gift that prompts a surprising journey of self-discovery . . . and another chance at happiness.

What if you could have one more day with someone you lost?

Diana Merriman, a physical therapist, is probably the only person in the small town of Snow Haven, North Carolina, who isn’t looking forward to Christmas. It’s been three weeks since her fiancé
Linus was critically injured when a car hit him as he biked home from the toy store he owns and manages. Watching him open his eyes is the only gift she wants, but she can’t help losing a little more hope every day.

But an unexpected visit from a friendly neighbor and finding a snow globe of Snow Haven—a gift Linus had hidden in the closet—the night before Christmas Eve changes things in ways Diana never would have imagined. Because on Christmas Eve Diana wakes up to find that it’s not—Christmas Eve, that is. Instead, it’s somehow December 4 all over again, the day Linus got hurt, and as mystified as Diana is, she immediately starts a plan to save her partner from his fate. ​

Nothing is that simple, of course. Instead of a single repeat of that day, Diana finds herself in an endless loop of December 4, experiencing every possible variation of events. Along the way, she uncovers startling truths about herself, her relationship, and even her career that illustrate the ways she’s retreated from her life—and in the face of life’s slights and outright blows, from her deepest feelings. Suddenly hope is second only to joy as Diana opens her heart to the people she loves in every way she can.

My Thoughts

This is one of the best Christmas books that I have ever read and it is perfect for reading anytime you want to read a sweet romance with a lot happening to thwart the loving couple. Diana Merriman and Linus Grant are engaged but Diana is dragging her feet about setting a wedding date. Then Linus gets into a terrible accident and Diana wants a “do-over.” Her mystical neighbor Mrs. Guzman gives Diana her wish so that she can spend another day with Linus before he goes into a coma. Unfortunately, Diana can’t figure out how to change things and to get out of the cycle of constantly repeating that day. The story is heartfelt and tugged at all of my emotions. I felt so bad for Diana and her desire to make things right with Linus and her frustration that she just can’t. I fell in love with the characters in this magically realistic book that transported me to a life where wishes may come true, but they may not be what you want or expect. I enjoyed getting to know the lovable characters, especially Linus with his quirky ties and his happy-go-lucky acceptance of life. I also enjoyed meeting Dustin, the little boy who frequents Linus’s toy store without much hope of having a good Christmas since his foster mother thinks he is a bad boy who deserves nothing. There are sub-plots that are intricately woven into the central story and they all dovetail together beautifully in this cleverly written and enchanting story. I loved every minute that I spent with Diana, Linus and the rest of the cast of characters and hated to see the story end. This novel was brilliantly written and completely captivating!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16th CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

All audiences will enjoy this book and be captivated by the characters.

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Annie Rains lives in a small, coastal North Carolina town, full of lovable folks, scenic downtown areas, and breathtaking nature—similar to the towns she writes about in her books. Annie’s love of reading and writing grabbed hold of her at a young age and never let go. Her first book was published in 2015, and she’s been writing heartfelt, page-turning stories ever since. When Annie isn’t writing, she’s reading from her never-ending TBR stack on her bedside table, taking long walks while plotting her characters’ happy endings, and living out her own happily ever after with her husband, three children, feisty rescue cat, and mischievous dog.
For more information, visit Annie’s website at http://www.annierains.com

Releases on 8-22-23! Purchase Links:

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With great appreciation to Kensington for giving me the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book!