Royal Holiday

Giving this three stars because it was enjoyable enough. The first half of the book is really cute but the second half devolves into petty family/ relationship drama mixed in with Malcom and Vivian having sex. I started to get uninterested at around the 66% mark. Vivian is great and at first her interactions with Malcolm are also great but something changes in the second half. Once she starts staying with him in London for those few days he's turns into an asshole on more than one occasion and it's frustrating. The language started to get repetitive towards the second half as well. I wish I had the kindle edition so I could highlight every time she writes “They looked at each other and laughed” or “She couldn't remember the last time she had ...”

Also, for two people who are both in their 60s they are so indecisive and secretive about their feelings. Surely once you've reached that age you care less about being polite and are more willing to just go for things you want right? Yet, there are several frustrating instances where neither person will admit to what they actually want so both parties just end up being mad at each other. Overall, I think this would've worked better as a novella. Cut out all the stuff about Malcom's nephew going to art college (also what's so bad about wanting to be artist Malcom!? Why do you have such disdain for artists?) and just have cute dates around London where the main conflict is that Vivian has to go back to California in one week.

Romances are such a hit-or-miss for me. I'm very happy to say that this one was a hit! A hit, and a fantastic way to kick off my Christmas reading.

Long overdue for a vacation, Vivian's daughter Maddie convinces her to tag along on a business trip to England (working for the Duchess, no less!). While Maddie is busy dressing royalty, Vivian befriends Malcolm, the Private Secretary to the Queen herself. Though certainly enchanted by her royal surroundings, Vivian is far more interested in this dashing man's company.

I haven't read the previous books in this series, nor has it been on my radar at all. I saw it on someone else's TBR and thought it sounded cute. My reading experience didn't feel hindered given my lack of familiarity. Jasmine Guillory is officially on my go-to author list for when I'm in the mood to read a romance. Vivian and Malcolm are so adorable together and the characters in general are so lovable. Such a treat!