Honestly, I picked up Tis the Season for Revenge by Morgan Elizabeth because that synopsis shocked me. I could not imagine a) dating someone named Richard Bartholemew Benson the Third, b) for four years, c) changing myself completely, to only d) be dumped for not being ‘serious’ enough. I read that synopsis, was shocked, bought the book because I needed to see Abbie get her vengeance. I’m glad I did! This was a super cute and fun read!
Though this is a fluffy and spicy holiday romance, there is serious subject matter sprinkled in. Abbie spent 4 years forging herself into the ‘perfect’ girlfriend, doing anything and everything Richard wanted of her. She was a girlfriend, mother, and personal assistant all in one, receiving not a single shred of gratitude. Abbie believed this was just what love was supposed to be and despite warnings from her best friends, she puts up with it. It isn’t until the breakup that she realizes there’s a word for what Richard did to her – abuse. Abuse isn’t always physical and mental/emotional abuse is so insidious that folks experiencing don’t realize they are. I really appreciated seeing this in a romance but also keeping the book light.
The romance between Abbie and Damien is sweet. It unfolds in bits and pieces, through understanding, kindness, and small actions. Damien helps build Abbie back up, showing her that loving someone doesn’t mean you need to lessen yourself. Abbie, meanwhile, helps loosen Damien up, showing him there’s more to life than work. Unfortunately, the one thing I didn’t care for in the romance was the spice. It didn’t do it for me here. I don’t know if it was too vanilla, or if it was just not written to my standards, but it just fell flat for me.
Tis the Season for Revenge by Morgan Elizabeth was a really good holiday romance! It was solid, had multiple layers, and such a sweet romance that felt earned. I think I’d definitely recommend this for folks looking to add Christmas spice to their TBRs.
