A Cat Cafe Christmas

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This was so much more than just a sweet, cuddly read. I was attracted to the book because it had cats. I listened on audible but probably should have followed a written copy because each chapter has an intro to a different cat and I would have appreciated a cute drawing of said cat.

We are introduced to Kara who owns a cat cafe with her best friend Charity. They are wanting to eventually expand so it includes a vet hospital. Kara has been keeping a low profile after her ex had a run in with the law and her name got dragged through the mud with it. That means no social media to stay away from any publicity. In comes Ben who is part of a marketing firm highlighting the cat cafe as one of the things to do in town. He’s run away from his hometown because his girlfriend left him for his brother. He’s starting a new life and renovating his new home when he stumbles upon a kitten. He’s not a cat person, so takes it to the cat cafe to give it up. Kara convinces… no, she forces him to care for the kitten before they can look at it being fostered. They both keep having situations where they run into each other and this allows them to get to know each other over time. They both have walls up, but are they willing to let their guard down?

Ben and Kara are two grumpy individuals but their past trauma has made them cautious in this way. It’s hard for them to trust other people based on the hurt of the past. Do they have likeable personalities? Not at the start. Both of them had to grow into better people and they both brought out the best in each other. I think that’s what I liked about this story and how relatable it can be to own our character and personality.

I liked how Ben grew into loving cats - well his particular kitten who warmed up to him from the start. I can understand why Kara could be hard to read, but she’s that way for a reason. I liked all the cats and their personalities. The ending was great because it centres around taking a chance and seeing where it leads you. Christmas can bring people together and allow people to set aside differences. I also enjoyed how simple acts of kindness can also help inspire others.

This is a sweet, opposites attract, grumpy x grumpy romance.

The Christmas Pact

The Christmas Pact by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward.

Thought this was a fun, holiday, fake dating romance. If this was actually a bit longer and we got to know the characters (plus side characters) with more depth, I think I would have liked it more. It’s an easy, quick read/listen.

I liked the concept of Riley Kennedy and Kennedy Riley working at the same company, but always getting each other’s emails. When Kennedy receives an email meant for Riley as she asked for life advice to a columnist about her mum never thinking she’s good enough, he thinks that he can help her out by going to her family’s home and pretending to be her boyfriend. On the flip side, he wants her to attend his brother’s wedding.

It’s amazing how quick Kennedy comes up with the lies and charms Riley’s family instantly. The sparks do start flying between the two and they spend much of the time not knowing if the other is interested. We get to know Kennedy has kept a minor detail about who is brother is marrying and the reason why he didn’t want to turn up without a partner.

Loved all the interactions between MCs and side characters. The story was fun and some parts were unexpected. Kennedy came across as an A-hole but there were reasons why he was who he was. Even though it was a short read, it was nice to see Riley grow and come to some good realisations for herself.