Lost In Pages: Love, Loss, and Second Chances: My Book Reflections December 2024, Part 1

January 15, 2025

December is one of my absolute favorite months of the year. The Holiday season just feels so cozy and magical, doesn’t it? One of my favorite things (pun intended—listen with me to Julie Andrews’ ) is wrapping myself in a blanket, lighting a few candles, and diving into a good book. There’s just nothing better than getting lost in a story while the world outside feels chilly and festive.

As I reflected on December’s theme, I noticed a beautiful pattern in the books I read this month. They were all about overcoming loss, letting love lead the way, and embracing second chances. These stories felt like the perfect companions for the season—comforting, inspiring, and healing, too.

This is part 1 of my December bokk reflections. In part 2, I will review the audiobooks I have listened to in December.

hope these reviews inspire you to pick up a few of these books and lose yourself in their pages. They were so, so good, and I can’t wait to hear what you think if you decide to give them a read!

THE VERY SECRET SOCIETY OF IRREGULAR WITCHES by Sangu Mandanna

(first published: August 23, 2022; Publisher: Berkley; 318 pages, Paperback; Goodreads Choice Award for Fantasy 2022; Swoon Award for PNR/UF Romance 2022)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 1, 2024)

Book: the Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

The Perfect Time for Witchy Vibes

I picked up The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna at the end of November, and let me tell you, it couldn’t have come at a better time. The days were getting darker, and I was in the mood for something magical yet cozy—something that felt like curling up with a warm blanket, and connecting to my inner witch.

I had been flirting with the idea of getting a copy of this novel for quite some time—months, actually—and then one evening, while browsing at my favorite bookstore in Berlin (Dussmann English Bookstore), I finally gave in. Even though I had quite a few unread books at home, I just couldn’t resist. But you know how it is as a book nerd—it’s not just about reading the books. It’s about how they occupy space on your bookshelf, resting there, connecting with the other books, and waiting. And when the time is right, they simply call to you, and you just know it’s time to read them.

What’s the Story About?

Mika Moon is a witch, but in her world, witches have to stay hidden—and apart from each other—because apparently, having too much magic in one place is dangerous. So, Mika has built a life of isolation, pretending she doesn’t mind being on her own (which of course she does but it would be too painful to admit to because: does she have any other choice?) She even runs a cheeky online account where she “pretends” to be a witch (the irony!), never expecting anyone to take her seriously. and I think that is why I loved Mika’s character so much. She’s so relatable, and one simply wants to root for her.

Then she gets this mysterious invitation to Nowhere House, where three young witches are being raised by an eclectic found family. They need someone to teach the girls how to control their magic and powers, and Mika—despite her better judgment—agrees.

What she doesn’t expect is to be pulled into the chaotic, lovable world of Nowhere House, a family that she always longed to have. And she definitely doesn’t expect to fall for Jamie, the grumpy librarian who’s actually a heart of gold and who’s made it his mission to protect the family at all costs.

The Love Story That Had Me Swooning

So, let me focus on the love story a bit because I’m a helpless romantic. First let’s talk about Jamie for a second. He’s serious, broody, and annoyingly overprotective…but also caring in that “I’ll do anything for the people I love” kind of way, which is super attractive in my opinion. A man who protects what is sacred to him: his family…oh, there’s no greener flag than that.

Mika, on the other hand, is bubbly, clever, and guarded in her own way, which makes their interactions SO fun to watch. They both mirror each other perfectly, and I love how both of them are forced to let their guard down piece by piece.

The slow burn between them is everything. I love slow burns: wholesome, healthy friendships that turn romantic.
Their banter is full of sparks, and when they do finally start letting their walls down? Ugh, my heart! Their love story isn’t just sweet—it’s real. It’s about learning to trust someone with the parts of yourself you’re afraid to show.

Healing, Belonging, and Finding Yourself

While the romance is incredible, the real magic of this story is Mika’s journey of healing. She’s spent her whole life believing she has to hide who she is to keep herself and others safe. But at Nowhere House, surrounded by this quirky, mismatched family, that has so much heart and love to give, she starts to realize she doesn’t have to do life alone. What a relief I felt for her.

The themes of found family and belonging are so beautifully written. Mika isn’t the only one learning to let people in—every character at Nowhere House is healing from something, whether it’s loneliness, loss, or fear. Watching them come together and grow is just as satisfying as the romance.

Pure Magic

This book is pure magic—not just because of the witches, but because of the heart and soul Sangu Mandanna poured into these characters. It’s whimsical, cozy, and uplifting, with just the right amount of depth to tug at your heartstrings.

If you’re looking for a book that’ll make you laugh, cry, and believe in the power of love and community, this is the one. It’s the perfect read to close out November and ease into the holiday season.

5 ⭐!!! Thank you, Sangu Mandanna!

GOOD MATERIAL by Dolly Alderton

(first published: November 7, 2023; Publisher: Fig Tree; 345 pages, Paperback; Goodreads Choice Award for Fiction 2024; She Reads Best of Award for Literary Fiction 2024)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 8, 2024)

Good Material: A Funny, Heartfelt Journey of Growth and Redemption

Okay, we need to talk about Good Material by Dolly Alderton. I finished it in the beginning of December, and while it didn’t knock Ghosts off the top spot for me, I still loooooved it. Dolly Alderton is such an incredible writer—her stories, her humor, her way of making you feel everything… I mean, can I just be her friend already? I’d hang out with her in a heartbeat. Dear Dolly, if you ever read this, I want to be your friend. Thank you for gifting us your beautiful heart and mind, wrapped in amazing books.

What’s It About?

So, the book follows Andy, who’s a stand-up comedian, but honestly? His life is anything but funny right now. His girlfriend has left him, and instead of moving on, he’s wallowing in this deep pool of self-pity, which I get. I think it’s necessary to some degree. Heartbreak is a bitch and it can turn us into shells of what we once were or we could be. But Andy, he’s stuck on the “woe is me” track for most of the book, and you kind of want to shake him at times—basically all time. lol

But here’s the thing: his journey isn’t just about heartbreak. It’s about hitting rock bottom—like completely—and realizing you’re the only one who can get yourself out of it. Slowly but surely, Andy starts to pull himself together—not just in his career, but as a person. And watching that transformation? So, so satisfying.

The book depicted it so perfectly—you get dragged through his emotional mess for a long, almost exhausting time, but you know what? This is real. This is how long it sometimes takes to claw your way out of a deep funk. Dolly Alderton doesn’t sugarcoat it, and she takes us on that ride in real time. And honestly, this genius narration—letting us feel every raw moment of Andy’s journey—deserves a 5-star shoutout just for how authentic and immersive it is. I might have to change my 4-star review to a 5-star one.

Also, the writing is classic Dolly Alderton. It’s laugh-out-loud funny in places and then, out of nowhere, hits you with these moments of emotional depth that make you stop and feel. Her style is just so good—like she’s letting you in on a little secret while telling you the most relatable story. How does she do that? Honestly!!!

Why It’s Not Ghosts

Okay, I have to say it—Ghosts is still my favorite Dolly Alderton book. Let me tell you a little anecdote to prove just how much I love it. So, one day, I went to the bookstore, and it was packed. Like, paaaaacked to the brim. I was just there to grab a copy of Good Material and get out of there because, honestly, too many people around me? Not my thing.

Anyway, I went straight to the shelf where I knew Dolly’s books were, and because I already knew what the cover looked like, I grabbed the book that said “Dolly Alderton” on it without even double-checking. I also picked up another book while I was there and made a beeline for the cashier. Only when I got home did I realize…I’d grabbed Ghosts again! It was just a different edition, and it looked so similar to Good Material.

Thankfully, I could return it and get the right book, but it goes to show how much Ghosts has a hold on me. It’s my number one, no question.

That said, Good Material is still fantastic. It’s lighter and more humorous, but it’s packed with heart in its own way. It’s a different flavor of Alderton’s brilliance, and honestly, I’m here for both.

4 Stars become 5 Stars

This is a solid 4-star, turning into a 5-star book for me. I loved Andy’s journey from being this self-pitying, heartbroken mess to someone who starts figuring out how to stand on his own two feet. Dolly Alderton is just so good at writing stories that feel real and characters you can’t help but care about.

If you’re a fan of Dolly—or even if you just need a funny, heartfelt story about growing up, messing up, and getting your act together—add this one to your list. And seriously, Dolly, if you ever read this, let’s be friends. I’ll bring snacks.

FUNNY STORY by Emily Henry

(first published: April 25, 2024; Publisher: Viking; 384 pages, Paperback; Goodreads Choice Award for Romance 2024; She Reads Best of Award for Book of the Year and Romance 2024)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 11, 2024)

Funny Story: Emily Henry at Her Absolute Best

Wow, Emily Henry. Just… wow. Let me start by saying THANK YOU for this masterpiece. Funny Story is officially my second favorite book of hers—Happy Place still reigns supreme for me, but this one is a very close second. For anyone keeping track (and I absolutely am), my ranking goes: Happy Place, Funny Story, People We Meet on Vacation (You and Me on Vacation), Book Lovers, and then Beach Read. Oh, and can we talk about how much I’m counting down the days until Great Big Beautiful Life hits shelves this April? I’m already planning to clear my schedule. Can’t wait!

What’s It About?

Daphne’s life was turned upside down when, after moving away from her friend and where she had a stable life, she settled into a house Peter—her fiancé—had bought for them—a house Peter had paid the mortgage for, with big dreams of starting their life together. But at Peter’s bachelor party, everything changed. His best “man,” and childhood long-term friend Petra, confessed her love for Peter, and just like that, Peter called off the wedding, leaving Daphne for Petra overnight, and shattering her world.

Now, Daphne finds herself stranded in the small town of Waning Bay, Michigan, with no friends or family, a barely-paying dream job as a children’s librarian, and an entirely new reality to navigate. With nowhere else to turn, she proposes an unlikely roommate situation with none other than Petra’s ex: Miles Nowak, both of them going through the same situation and heartbreak.

Miles is everything Daphne isn’t—scruffy, chaotic, and deeply wounded by his own heartbreak. While Daphne thrives on order and practicality, Miles copes by drowning in heartbroken love ballads, trying (and sometimes failing) to put his life back together. But despite their differences, they form an unexpected bond as roommates, connecting in a way no one else could understand. And the love story that blossoms from their shared pain? It’s honestly so touching. Miles completely stole my heart—a man who not only feels his feelings but shows up when it matters most. He’s loyal to a fault, and that kind of steadfastness just melts me.

Without giving too much away, let’s just say things take a wild turn when the two decide to fake being a couple after receiving an invitation to Petra and Peter’s wedding. Yes, you read that right. Their exes, barely out of their relationships with Daphne and Miles, are tying the knot—together. WTF, right? As if the heartbreak wasn’t enough, now they have to endure this twisted situation. Watching them navigate this emotional minefield while leaning on each other is both gut-wrenching and beautiful.

The Healing Journey

What I love most about Funny Story is the emotional growth Daphne and Miles experience throughout the book. Daphne has to rebuild her life from the ground up after Peter left her, and her journey is about rediscovering who she is without the person she thought she’d spend her life with. It’s messy, painful, and often uncomfortable, but watching her find her way out of the fog of heartbreak is so satisfying. She starts to embrace the chaos of life, let go of the idealized love story she had with Peter, and learns to trust herself again.

Miles, too, is on his own journey of healing. He’s spent so much time avoiding the pain of his own breakup with Petra, hiding behind his scruffy exterior and his love for sad songs, that he’s neglected his emotional needs. Watching him start to open up, let down his guard, and finally confront his feelings was honestly incredible. The way he learns to trust again—and let himself feel—had me rooting for him every step of the way.

Why It’s a 5-Star Read

Emily Henry just knows how to write a lovestory that turns into a bestseller. Her writing is funny, heartfelt, and effortlessly real. Her style is sophisticated and so eloquent, and I love her brain. The way she balances humor with deeply emotional moments is something I can never get enough of. The characters are so well-developed, and their journeys of healing—both alone and together—are beautifully portrayed.

Funny Story is the perfect mix of heartache, humor, and the kind of love story you didn’t see coming. I loved every second of it and couldn’t put it down. If you’re a fan of second-chance romance, self-discovery, and quirky, lovable characters, this one is for you.

THE EX VOWS by Jessica Joyce

(first published: July 16, 2024; Publisher: Berkley; 384 pages, Paperback)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 29, 2024)

First Impressions

Okay, let me just start by saying—this was my first book by Jessica Joyce, and wow, just WOW. When I picked up The Ex Vows in the bookstore, I wasn’t sure if it would be my thing, but I’ll tell you, something about it just spoke to me. Maybe it was the cover, or maybe it was fate, but once I had it in my hands, there was no turning back. And when I started reading? I couldn’t put it down. I couldn’t believe how much I loved it. Like, every single thing about it. What a hell of a writer Jessica Joyce is. Simply wonderful.

What’s It About?

The Ex Vows centers on Georgia Woodward and Eli Mora, estranged exes who are thrown together at the worst possible moment: the wedding of their mutual best friend, Adam. Georgia is the kind of person who lives by her lists, especially the one she’s made about Eli—her ex of five years, after a cataclysmic breakup. Now, back in the Bay Area, she’s managed to compartmentalize her feelings and keep her distance from Eli. But with Adam’s wedding fast approaching, Georgia is thrust into her role as best woman, right alongside Eli, who’s flown in from New York with a whole new, rule-breaking attitude.

Then things take a turn for the worse when the wedding venue burns down, and Adam, in a panic, asks Georgia and Eli to join forces to pull off a miracle wedding for him and his fiancée. They head to Napa Valley, and that’s when things really start to get interesting. Old chemistry between Georgia and Eli comes rushing back, and despite their messy past, they can’t deny the spark that’s still there, and the love they feel for each other.

The Healing Journey and Their Growth:

This book is the perfect second-chance romance. I’ll admit, I’m not usually the biggest fan of second chances—but I know they exist and, when they work, they can be truly beautiful. What stood out to me in The Ex Vows was the emotional growth for both Georgia and Eli. Their past is messy, marked by misunderstandings, a lack of communication, and all the little things that can pile up to end a relationship—even when both partners still love each other deeply.

As they come together to save their best friend’s wedding, Georgia and Eli are forced to confront their unresolved feelings. Slowly but surely, they begin to unravel the hurt and misunderstandings of the past, finding healing not just as individuals but together. Watching their journey unfold felt authentic and heartfelt—it’s not rushed or overly dramatic, but it’s raw, real, and so deeply satisfying.

Georgia’s journey is about letting go of the rules she’s set up to protect herself. She’s been so determined to keep her feelings in check, to not cross that line with Eli again, but as she spends more time with him, she begins to realize that the man she once loved is still there—just in a different way. Eli, on the other hand, is trying to move forward and deal with his own issues, but he can’t help but be drawn to Georgia again. Watching them find their way back to each other, without it feeling rushed or forced, is so satisfying.

Their relationship doesn’t unfold in a neat, perfect way, and that’s what makes it feel so real. There’s no magical fix for the wounds they’ve both endured. Instead, their connection grows slowly, building trust, rediscovering the love they had before, and realizing that they might just have a shot at a fresh start—together.

Why You’ll Love It

This book is packed with everything I love in a romance: swoony moments, delicious tension, and two characters who feel like they’re on a real journey. The chemistry between Georgia and Eli is off-the-charts, and Jessica Joyce does such an amazing job at capturing the push and pull of a second chance at love. The whole Napa Valley setting just adds to the magic—it’s the perfect backdrop for a love story that’s as beautiful and messy as the characters themselves.

It’s one of my favorite reads in 2024! It was a total surprise and I love when that kind of stuff happens. I’m so glad I picked it up, and I can’t wait to dive into her other work. Truly, what a fantastic writer.

ROYAL VALENTINE by Sariah Wilson (Novella)

(first published: November 7, 2023; Publisher: Amazon Original Series: The Improbable Meet-Cute #6; 71 pages, Kindle Edition

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
(finished book: December 12, 2024)

Royal Valentine

Unfortunately this book novella didn’t do it for me. I mean I love a good story, even it’s so out there, but this was too out there for me, and it felt forced.
Royal Valentine by Sariah Wilson is a quick, breezy read that puts a modern twist on the classic princess-in-disguise trope. Princess Ilaria is tired of the constant scrutiny from the paparazzi and her royal duties, so she decides to swap places with her assistant for a weekend of anonymity. Enter a charming Scottish photographer who offers to show her around Rome. Sparks fly as they explore the Eternal City, but of course, Ilaria’s secret looms over their budding romance.

While the premise is fun and full of escapist charm, the story didn’t fully land for me. The romance felt a bit rushed, and the stakes didn’t quite pull me in as much as I hoped. That said, it’s a short, sweet novella with a fairytale vibe that many readers may enjoy if they’re looking for something lighthearted.

As I said, It wasn’t my style, but fans of royal romances and meet-cute stories like that might find this one delightful. Therefore it’s a 3 stars from me.

EVIDENCE OF THE AFFAIR by Taylor Jenkins Reid (Short Story)

(first published: 2018; Publisher: Amazon Original Stories; 85 pages, ebook; Goodreads Choice Award for Fiction 2024; She Reads Best of Award for Literary Fiction 2024

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 25, 2024)

A Masterpiece in Miniature

Evidence of the Affair by Taylor Jenkins Reid is proof that powerful storytelling doesn’t need a full-length novel to leave a lasting impact. This poignant short story is a beautifully written tale of heartbreak, connection, and the unexpected ways we find solace in shared pain.

Told through a series of letters, the story follows two strangers, Carrie and David, whose spouses are having an affair with each other. Bonded by their mutual betrayal, they begin corresponding to navigate the overwhelming emotions of infidelity. Through their letters, they uncover not only the depths of their sorrow but also the possibility of healing and understanding.

Taylor Jenkins Reid’s writing is, as always, exquisite. She captures complex emotions with grace and nuance, creating characters that feel raw and real despite the story’s brevity. It’s intimate, thought-provoking, and deeply moving—a testament to Reid’s skill in evoking profound emotions in such a compact format. I simply adore her.

If you’re looking for a quick yet unforgettable read, Evidence of the Affair is a must. Five stars, and then some!

THE BOOKSTORE SISTERS by Alice Hoffman (Novella)

(first published: November 1, 2022; Publisher: Amazon Original Stories: Once Upon a Time Bookshop Stories #1; 36 pages, Kindle Edition)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 31, 2024)

A Cozy Gem of a Story

The Bookstore Sisters by Alice Hoffman is a heartfelt, beautifully crafted novella that captivated me from the very first page. I read it on New Year’s Eve, bundled up in a blanket, and it was the perfect way to end the year. Hoffman’s gift for storytelling shines brightly in this little gem, and she proves that even in just 36 pages, she can deliver a tale that resonates deeply.

The story follows Isabel Gibson, who returns to the small island she once fled, drawn back by a plea for help. Her estranged sister Sophie is struggling to keep their family bookstore alive, and Isabel must face her past, her grief, and the bonds of sisterhood she thought she had left behind.

The way Hoffman writes about the sisters’ relationship and the island is just so real. And I could feel all the emotions. You feel the heartbreak, the love, and the healing. It’s part of the Once Upon a Time Bookshop Stories series, and if the rest of the stories are anything like this one, I’m in.

If you’re a fan of Alice Hoffman or just need a quick yet deeply satisfying read about love, friendship, sisterhood, and the power of forgiveness, The Bookstore Sisters will deliver. Five stars for this moving and magical little story!

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