If the Fates Allow: A Short Story

So this was uhhh... nice? Not much romance though. I thought we'd get more cute scenes but what we got instead was a commentary on covid and stupid people who didn't like wearing masks from the perspective of someone who was a loner (aka me). But yeah, could've done without all the covid crap and more Christmas-y stuff. I don't like reading about the plague so didn't know we'd get that so much.

I had picked this up as a “soon-after-Christmas-but-let's-still-count-it” read after utterly failing in my attempt to read winter-themed books for December. Here are a few of my reactions:

It was a Christmas dinner story that takes place during COVID lockdown. I didn't hate that as much as I think other people have. It was nice to see someone having an experience and connection during a time we all know has been very isolating.Apparently, it gives an “update” for a character I've forgotten from another Rainbow Rowell book. I've read the book, I honestly must not have cared too much because I don't remember them. This book would probably appeal more to individuals that want the “what's next” for Landline.
The family politics are spot on. I loved that there is so much “new normal” in here that is just kind of out there. And she finds a person who has a similar “new normal.” I can't believe I just used “new normal” in a review. Please forgive me.

I would suggest this book for lovers of Landline (because apparently it gives updates to key characters) or for anyone not so done with COVID that you can't take a present-set book. I actually enjoyed it.