December’s Book of the Month: Royal Holiday by Jasmine Guillory

Episode 73 is FULL of spoilers! It’s best enjoyed after reading the book.

Vivian Forest has been out of the country a grand total of one time, so when she gets the chance to tag along on her daughter Maddie’s work trip to England to style a royal family member, she can’t refuse. She’s excited to spend the holidays taking in the magnificent British sights, but what she doesn’t expect is to become instantly attracted to a certain private secretary, his charming accent, and unyielding formality.

Malcolm Hudson has worked for the Queen for years and has never given a personal, private tour—until now. He is intrigued by Vivian the moment he meets her and finds himself making excuses just to spend time with her. When flirtatious banter turns into a kiss under the mistletoe, things snowball into a full-on fling.

Despite a ticking timer on their holiday romance, they are completely fine with ending their short, steamy affair come New Year’s Day…or are they?

Renee’s Review

What a sweet story! I haven’t read a romance with characters in their 50s. I didn’t really know how I’d receive it, but I loved it. The beauty of it is the reality that even as an older adult, you won’t have all the answers. You will still second-guess things, make mistakes, and still enjoy the newness of love.

Vivian was not someone you had to guess about. She usually said how she felt, even after revising how it’d come out of her mouth before she spoke. I loved her curiosity. She wasn’t afraid of being herself.

Malcolm could have gotten these hands a couple of times, acting out in stupidity with Auntie. But, in the end, he did what his heart told him to. That was scary for him, so it was nice to see someone so sure of themselves take a leap of faith for love.

4.5⭐

Bridgette’s Review

This story was so enjoyable 😉 You never know when you’re gonna find that person that gets you. Malcolm and Viv didn’t hold back, well, they kinda did, but kept it going 😆 That’s how their thought process was throughout, back and forth. I’m glad she said yes to London!

5⭐