Reviews In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren
There are times when the chill of winter settles in, and the festive season approaches, bringing with it a longing for a cozy, heartwarming read to ignite the holiday spirit within. It was during one such moment that Christina Lauren’s “In a Holidaze” caught my eye, its premise of a time loop set against the backdrop of a snowy family cabin promising a perfect blend of whimsy and nostalgia.
From the moment I delved into the pages, I found myself immediately drawn into the charming world of the Jones family and their annual holiday traditions. The cozy cabin setting, adorned with twinkling lights, crackling fires, and the scent of pine, transported me to a winter wonderland unlike any other. As Maelyn (Mae) found herself reliving the same week over and over again, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the clever premise and the comedic mishaps that ensued, each one more hilarious than the last.
While the romantic storyline between Mae and her lifelong crush, Andrew, was undoubtedly swoon-worthy, what truly resonated with me was Mae’s personal journey of self-discovery. As she navigated the time loop, she was forced to confront her own insecurities, fears, and the choices that had led her to a place of dissatisfaction in her life. Christina Lauren’s writing shines in these introspective moments, as Mae’s inner monologue and reflections felt authentic and relatable, striking a chord deep within me.
One passage that particularly resonated was when Mae realized, “Happiness wasn’t a destination, but a journey – one that required her to embrace the present moment and appreciate the simple joys in life.” These words echoed within me, reminding me to savor the little things and not get caught up in the constant pursuit of some elusive future happiness, a sentiment that has stayed with me long after turning the final page.
Yet, while the introspective moments were poignant, Christina Lauren’s signature wit and humor kept the story from ever feeling too heavy. The banter between Mae and her siblings, as well as the hilarious situations that arose from the time loop, had me chuckling out loud on numerous occasions. One particularly memorable scene involved Mae’s attempts to recreate the perfect Christmas morning, only to have her efforts hilariously derailed by a series of mishaps involving a rogue gingerbread man and a wayward Christmas tree. These moments of levity provided a delightful balance to the more emotional aspects of the story, ensuring that the reader was never bogged down by the weight of Mae’s introspection.
Ultimately, what made “In a Holidaze” truly special was its heartfelt celebration of family, traditions, and the importance of cherishing the present moment. As Mae navigated the time loop, she gained a newfound appreciation for the little moments and rituals that had once seemed mundane – from decorating the cabin to baking cookies with her siblings. Christina Lauren’s writing beautifully captured the warmth and nostalgia of these family traditions, reminding me of my own cherished holiday memories and gently nudging me to slow down, savor the moments, and appreciate the people and traditions that bring joy and meaning to our lives.
As I turned the final pages of “In a Holidaze,” I felt a sense of warmth and contentment wash over me, as if I had been wrapped in a cozy blanket by the fire. Christina Lauren’s writing had transported me to a festive world filled with laughter, love, and the magic of the holiday season, leaving me with a renewed appreciation for the simple joys that often go overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
For anyone seeking a heartwarming, feel-good read to get into the holiday spirit, I cannot recommend “In a Holidaze” highly enough. It is a delightful escape that will leave you with a smile on your face and a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for the magic of the season. Whether you’re curled up by the fire, basking in the glow of twinkling lights, or simply seeking a respite from the chaos of the world, this book is the perfect companion to embrace the warmth and joy of the holidays.
But more than just a cozy read, “In a Holidaze” is a gentle reminder to cherish the present moment, to savor the traditions and rituals that bring us together, and to find happiness in the simple act of being present with those we love. It is a book that will linger in your heart long after the final page has been turned, a warm and comforting presence that will inspire you to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the magic of the season with open arms.
