Picture this: You’re curled up by a crackling fire, steaming mug of cocoa in hand, fairy lights twinkling softly in the background. Now, add a dash of queer romance, a sprinkle of second chances, and a whole lot of holiday cheer. That’s the cozy world Ashley Herring Blake invites us into with her latest novel, “Make the Season Bright.”
As a fan of Blake’s previous work, including the delightful “Delilah Green Doesn’t Care” and the charming “Astrid Parker Doesn’t Fail,” I had high hopes for this festive foray into the world of exes reunited. And let me tell you, folks—Blake does not disappoint. This book is like the literary equivalent of wrapping yourself in a warm, fuzzy blanket on a snowy day. It’s comfort food for the soul, with just enough spice to keep things interesting.
A Tale of Two Hearts: Charlotte and Brighton’s Journey
From Altar to Awkward: The Setup
Our story centers on Charlotte Donovan, a talented violinist who’s spent the last five years carefully reconstructing her life after being left at the altar. She’s got it all together now—or so she thinks. A successful career with the Rosalind Quartet in New York? Check. A carefully cultivated emotional wall to keep out any potential heartbreak? Double check.
Enter Brighton Fairbrook, the ex-fiancée who did the leaving. She’s struggling with her own demons, having been recently kicked out of her band and feeling lost in her musical career. When they both end up at the same Colorado home for Christmas, courtesy of their mutual friends (and sisters) Sloane and Adele, it’s a recipe for awkwardness, tension, and—you guessed it—rekindled feelings.
Deck the Halls with Boughs of Tension
Blake expertly ratchets up the tension between Charlotte and Brighton from the get-go. Their first encounter is deliciously cringeworthy, with Charlotte attempting to pretend she doesn’t even know Brighton. It’s the kind of scene that had me squirming in secondhand embarrassment, but unable to look away.
The author’s talent for dialogue shines here. The back-and-forth between the exes crackles with unresolved issues and lingering attraction. Take this exchange, for example:
“I think we need to start over,” Charlotte said. She made sure her voice was steady, her fingers deftly folding the cloth to hide the glittery mess on the cotton.
Brighton tilted her head. “Start…over?”
Charlotte nodded. “We’re stuck with each other for the next week, and I think we should use it.”
“Use it,” Brighton said. “For…?”
“For moving on.”
It’s moments like these that capture the complex emotions of their situation perfectly. You can feel the weight of their history, the hurt, and the cautious hope all intertwined in a few simple lines.
Jingle Bell Rock Your Emotions: The Character Development
Charlotte: Thawing the Ice Queen
One of the joys of this novel is watching Charlotte’s carefully constructed walls slowly crumble. Blake does an excellent job of showing us the vulnerable woman beneath the cool, professional exterior. Charlotte’s journey from emotional unavailability to openness is gradual and believable, punctuated by moments of genuine vulnerability that had me rooting for her all the way.
Her relationship with her mother, or lack thereof, adds another layer of depth to her character. It helps explain her trust issues and fear of abandonment, making her hesitation to let Brighton back in all the more understandable.
Brighton: Finding Her Rhythm
Brighton’s character arc is equally compelling. We see her struggle with the loss of her musical identity after being kicked out of her band. Her journey to rediscover her passion for music, particularly in the scenes where she plays with Charlotte, is beautifully written. Blake’s descriptions of their musical chemistry are so vivid you can almost hear the notes floating off the page.
‘Tis the Season for Growth: Themes and Emotional Depth
Forgiveness and Second Chances
At its core, “Make the Season Bright” is a story about forgiveness—not just of others, but of oneself. Both Charlotte and Brighton have to confront their past mistakes and learn to move forward. It’s a powerful message, especially set against the backdrop of the holiday season.
The Importance of Chosen Family
The novel also explores the concept of chosen family beautifully. The warmth and acceptance of the Berry family provide a stark contrast to Charlotte’s distant relationship with her own mother. It’s a reminder that family isn’t always about blood—sometimes it’s about the people who choose to stand by you.
Mistletoe and Missteps: The Romance
Let’s talk about the romance, because oh boy, does Blake know how to write chemistry. The slow burn between Charlotte and Brighton is exquisite. Every lingering glance, every accidental touch, every shared memory is loaded with tension and possibility.
Their first kiss after years apart is particularly well-crafted:
Brighton curled her hands around the backs of Lola’s thighs, her heart suddenly wild and free and young.
“You love me,” she said.
Lola smiled, her eyes shiny. “I love you.” She cupped Brighton’s face in her palms. “And, actually, there’s one more thing I know.”
It’s a moment that feels earned after all the build-up, and it’s satisfyingly swoon-worthy.
Fa La La La Flaws: A Few Minor Quibbles
While I thoroughly enjoyed “Make the Season Bright,” no book is without its flaws. At times, the pacing in the middle section felt a bit slow, with perhaps one too many holiday activities dragging out the inevitable reconciliation.
Additionally, some readers might find the resolution to Charlotte and Brighton’s issues a bit too neat and tidy. Real-life reconciliations are often messier and more complicated. However, given the genre and the holiday setting, I’m willing to suspend disbelief for the sake of a satisfying ending.
Wrap It Up With a Bow: Final Thoughts
Who Should Read This Book?
“Make the Season Bright” is perfect for:
- Fans of queer romance looking for a cozy holiday read
- Anyone who loves a good second-chance love story
- Music lovers (the descriptions of Charlotte and Brighton playing together are chef’s kiss)
- Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with emotional depth
How It Stacks Up
In the world of queer holiday romances, “Make the Season Bright” stands out for its well-developed characters and the genuine emotional journey it takes readers on. It’s on par with other beloved queer holiday romcoms like “Written in the Stars” by Alexandria Bellefleur or “In the Event of Love” by Courtney Kae.
The Verdict: A Heartwarming Holiday Hit
“Make the Season Bright” is like a warm hug on a cold winter’s night. Ashley Herring Blake has crafted a story that’s both comfortingly familiar and refreshingly unique. It’s a testament to the power of forgiveness, the importance of being true to oneself, and the magic that can happen when you open your heart to second chances.
With its lovable characters, palpable chemistry, and festive setting, this novel is sure to become a holiday favorite for many readers. So grab a blanket, pour yourself some hot cocoa, and settle in for a read that’ll leave you feeling merry, bright, and maybe just a little bit in love with love itself.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a sudden urge to go practice my violin and maybe, just maybe, believe in the magic of second chances.
