Book Review: Holiday Romance by Catherine Walsh

If there’s one thing Catherine Walsh proves in Holiday Romance, it’s that the holiday season is as much about the people you’re with as it is about the journey. With a perfect blend of charm, wit, and festive cheer, this delightful rom-com delivers everything you’d want from a holiday read—and then some.

The Plot:

Molly and Andrew have an unconventional holiday tradition: they’ve spent the last decade sharing a flight from Chicago to Dublin, catching up on each other’s lives over bad airplane wine. Despite their easy camaraderie, there’s never been anything romantic between them… until a snowstorm grounds their annual flight and turns their plans upside down. Determined to get Andrew home to Ireland in time for Christmas dinner, Molly devises an ambitious travel plan involving every mode of transportation short of a sleigh ride. What follows is a whirlwind journey full of mishaps, banter, and the growing realization that maybe, just maybe, these two friends are meant to be more than seatmates.

What Worked:

The Chemistry: Molly and Andrew’s dynamic is electric from the start. Their banter feels natural and heartfelt, balancing humor with genuine emotion. Walsh does a fantastic job building their connection through years of shared history, making their romantic development feel both inevitable and earned.
The Festive Vibes: This book practically oozes holiday cheer. From Andrew’s over-the-top love for Christmas to the snowy landscapes and heartwarming moments, it’s the literary equivalent of a cozy cup of cocoa.
The Adventure: The chaotic, madcap journey to get Andrew home is a highlight. Each setback and detour adds to the story’s charm, with Molly’s determination and Andrew’s good-natured optimism driving the plot forward. It’s a festive take on the classic road-trip romance, and Walsh executes it beautifully.
The Side Characters: The supporting cast—from Molly’s quirky family to the fellow travelers they encounter—add depth and humor to the story. They’re well-drawn and memorable without stealing the spotlight from the main couple.

What Could Have Been Better:

Pacing Issues: While the story is mostly a joy to read, a few moments in the middle feel a bit repetitive. The journey occasionally drags, which might leave readers impatient for the inevitable romantic payoff.
Molly’s Christmas Cynicism: Molly’s indifference to the holidays is a key part of her character arc, but it feels slightly underexplored. A deeper dive into why she’s so anti-Christmas could have added more emotional weight to her eventual transformation.

Final Thoughts:

Holiday Romance is the perfect book to curl up with during the festive season. Catherine Walsh combines humor, heart, and holiday magic into a story that’s as uplifting as it is entertaining. Molly and Andrew’s journey from friends to something more will leave you smiling long after you turn the last page. While it’s not without its minor flaws, the charm of the characters and the holiday setting more than make up for it.

Whether you’re a Christmas fanatic like Andrew or a skeptic like Molly, this book will remind you that love and a little holiday spirit can turn any journey into something unforgettable. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, feel-good read this winter, Holiday Romance should be at the top of your list!