Winter's Kiss: a second chance romance

Winter’s Kiss is the first book in the Starling Bay series by Sienna Carr. Merry Nichols hates Christmas as the festive season holds devastating memories for her. Especially the fast approaching season as it marks the fifth anniversary of her husband’s tragic death. When she falls in from stress, and at her mother’s insistence, Merry leaves her home in Boston with her surly 12 year old daughter, Chloe, and heads to Starling Bay, a small coastal town, for some R&R. After she arrives in town, an unfortunate accident brings her face to face with Dylan Fraser, a local artist who runs a gift shop. Neither Dylan or Merry are looking for love but something draws them together. Maybe the magic of Christmas can heal both their hearts and allow them a second chance at love. 

Winter's Kiss is advertised as a sweet romance with a happily ever after. Understandable that Merry would avoid Christmas as it is forever connected to her husband’s death. Also understandable that in her own grief, she is unable to deal with her daughter’s grief as well. However, Merry was unlikable as she refuses to look deeper into her daughter’s attitude as more than just being a teenager. Dylan was likable as a former actor who wished for a simpler life as an artist. Their romance was a slow burn as they fought their attraction but I kept reading expecting the happily ever after. However, it didn't materialize. It is hinted that Merry and Dylan were heading to a HEA. Very disappointing. Overall, I did not enjoy Winter’s Kiss and I will not be continuing the series. 

Winter’s Kiss is available in paperback and eBook