Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Better Watch Out by Natalie Walters


Book description: 

An accidental meet-cute, a case of mistaken identity, and a bucket-list of Christmas activities befitting a Hallmark movie make this holiday romantic adventure the perfect Christmas read.

Leave the candy canes, take the pepper spray!

Nothing screams Christmas like a week spent ice skating, visiting Santa, and sharing a kiss or two under the mistletoe. Frannie Frost has crafted the perfect bucket list of romantic activities to surprise her boyfriend in the most magical place at Christmas time—New York City. When he unexpectedly becomes her ex, her plans are derailed leaving her with a choice. Wallow in self-pity at Christmas time or take matters into her own hands.

Former NHL defenseman turned personal protection agent, Andrew Bishop, loves his job—when things go as planned—but Frannie Frost is definitely not part of the plan. Still, when her brother, the man who saved Andrew’s life last year, asks him to deliver his sister safely to the airport, he can’t say no.

The only problem? Frannie isn’t leaving. She’s determined to make the most of her trip by checking off a bucket list of cliché Christmas actives that would make even Santa’s elves jealous. Andrew’s content to let her go until he learns that Frannie’s been mistaken for his client and thrust into the midst of danger.

Better Watch Out is a sweet romantic holiday adventure that gives you all of laughs of a rom-com while adding a touch of suspense. Tropes you’re sure to love include the new girl in the city vibe, stranded at Christmas, under the mistletoe, forced proximity, and a touch of enemies to lovers. Enjoy this romantic adventure that’s sure to make your holidays merry and bright.

My review:
This is the first full length Christmas novel I have read this year, and it was an amazing read. It was a bit different from the author's other books, but then it is a Christmas novel.

I honestly have never had the desire to go to New York City, but almost want to after reading this book. Using a suspense novel, the author gives the reader a tour of what to see and do at Christmas in New York City, via Frannie's bucket list.

Truly, the book has it all: In addition to ideas of what to do in NYC at Christmas, there is suspense, drama, humor...a lot of humor. And family. Frannie's relationship with her brother Ryan is cause for hilarity. (He has his story in Deadly Deceit, Harbored Secrets #2). And then there is the back and forth between Andrew and Fannie. I chuckled every time she referred to him as Star Lord to her sister-in-law and in her inner monologues. Andrew and Fannie were awesome main characters I hope we see more of.

And of course there is romance, which goes very slow. Makes sense since the story starts with Frannie's boyfriend breaking up with her. Still, this former hater of all things romance was thinking "come on dude, just kiss her!"

Also of note is the group of guys making up the Defensemen, which I assume is going to be Walter's newest series. Hopefully. Those guys were also entertaining.

I don't think I could have enjoyed this book any more than I did. OK, other than the slower than molasses romance.....but as I stated, I get it. I fortunately started reading this on a day off work, because there was no way I was putting this book down. I even delayed supper til I finished it. :)

The book had a great ending, and no - slight spoiler - it didn't end with the guy professing his love and proposing after knowing each other for a few days....but it had an ending worthy of the story that it told. 

I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.


About the author:
Natalie Walters is the author of the SNAP Agency and Harbored Secrets series.


military wife, she currently resides in Texas with her soldier husband and is the proud mom of three. She loves traveling, spending time with her family, and connecting with readers on Instagram and Facebook. Learn more at NatalieWaltersWriter.com.

Better Watch Out will be released October 17.

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