my expectations for this one were a little too high, based on the success and fun of the first two molly the maid novels! I was picturing a fun lil holiday mystery, and instead, it was more of a retelling of the gift of the magi 🧐🧐

there was very little mystery as this novella focused completely on juan and molly’s relationship over the past few christmases, especially after losing her grandmother. it was more of a deep dive into their daily life and relationship, which felt a little unnecessary for me. I definitely feel that this book would have been a bit more successful as a mystery rather than a filler.

however, the ending with molly and her friends was adorable, I have to admit. even though it was extremely obvious and irritable that molly couldn’t see it and was doubting herself…

thank you to netgalley and ballantine books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review! this was a cute one but overall without much of a point…

rating: 2.5 stars
wine pairing: dry creek zinfandel