Linda’s Book Obsession Reviews “The Christmas Wager” by Holly Cassidy, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, September 26, 2023

I bet you won’t be able to put down “The Christmas Wager” by Holly Cassidy when you start reading it. Holly Cassidy is the pen name for author Hannah Mary McKinnon, who writes a killer story. The genres for this enjoyable and entertaining novel are Rom-Com, Christmas Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, and Fiction. I loved everything about this story, and Holly Cassidy is a fantastic storyteller and an excellent writer. She vividly describes the small mountain town of Maple Falls, the scenery, and the dramatic and colorful characters.

Bella Ross is an ambitious and impulsive real estate developer from Los Angeles headed to the small town of Maple Falls to purchase an ailing store. Bella is competitive and is determined to seek both recognition and promotion in her company. Bella doesn’t appreciate Christmas because of family problems. One thing is for sure: Bella is going to seal the deal. Bella hopes the older owner of “Always Noelle,” the failing Christmas shop, is ready to sign.

Jesse Harrison, the grandson, joins his grandfather and Bella at their meeting and is determined to get the most money he can for his grandfather. He feels that Bella is taking advantage and paying as little as she can get away with. Although Jesse doesn’t trust Bella, his dog Buddy loves her. Jesse and Bella don’t budge on the negotiations, and the grandfather suggests a “wager.”

The “seasoned” citizens of the small town have the “Maple Falls Holiday Games” every year, which turns out to be a creative Olympics. This is so unique and witty! The “seasoned” citizens come up with unpredictable and twisted things. Both Jesse and Bella make a wager that the winner gets what they want. Jesse is convinced that Bella can never win these games of skill and strength.

As the adversaries prepared to win and get what they wanted, I found it hard not to cheer on both. I loved this novel and highly recommend it to others. I hope Holly Cassidy will write more about these characters. There are some twists and turns, so be prepared! Happy Reading!