I had seen this book all around for the holidays and decided to pick it up.  I went in totally blind, expecting a light, holiday romcom type of book.  But then it surprised me in the best way!  This book had so much more depth and was more of a story about grief, especially when that grief is complicated.  

Mel loses her Mother right before the holidays.  They had always had a strained relationship because of the Mother's alcohol abuse.  Even though she always tried to do the best for Mel as she was growing up.  Neither one of them wanted to face the truth and mostly just tried to sweep it under the rug.  After the sudden death, Mel is left with so many emotions and is having a really hard time coming to terms with her feelings.  Then Barb shows up on her doorstep and whisks her away to her home. We learn that Barb was her Mother's best friend back in the day and that they had a huge falling out and hadn't spoken for several years.  But Barb is a take charge kind of gal and forces Mel to face her feelings while letting her get to know the bright, fun woman she used to be.  Such a good story of love, found family and learning to overcome the past and learning to navigate the future.  It was still a bit romcom-ish when it comes to a bit of insta love and how quickly things resolve, but I still really enjoyed it.  I like a Christmas book with a bit more depth and meaning.  The complicated grief really rang true with me and I could really relate to things in my own life.  Don't miss the author's note at the end, it was very touching and gives another layer to the book.