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A review by neuroqueer
The Cynic's Christmas Conundrum: A Novelette by L.M. Bennett
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
Overall: C+
"The Cynic's Christmas Conundrum: A Novelette" is a quick holiday romance story featuring two queer women of color. While the story centers on Amara and River's burgeoning relationship, it could benefit from deeper exploration and clearer pacing.
Amara and River are likable protagonists, and their connection is cute to follow. However, the story feels rushed - particularly in the middle and towards the end where the timeline becomes confusing. I wasn't sure how long it had been between River watching opera singer Amara's performace and her New Year's Eve announcement.
The story primarily unfolds within the two leads' apartments and has limited exploration of Brooklyn outside of throwaway lines. The setting feels generic and could easily have taken place in another city like Portland or Seattle.
The cover art is visually appealing. It showcases the two gorgeous women embracing against a beautiful cityscape backdrop. However, the typography leaves much to be desired.
Overall, "The Cynic's Christmas Conundrum" presents a sweet wintery romance with between two characters with interesting and unique professions (an opera singer and graphic designer). However, the initial conflict between Amara and River felt weak. The relationship felt more like a "weak dislike to lovers" rather than "enemies to lovers." This book includes an explicit sex scene. It is a quick read for those looking for a lighthearted wlw romance.
"The Cynic's Christmas Conundrum: A Novelette" is a quick holiday romance story featuring two queer women of color. While the story centers on Amara and River's burgeoning relationship, it could benefit from deeper exploration and clearer pacing.
Amara and River are likable protagonists, and their connection is cute to follow. However, the story feels rushed - particularly in the middle and towards the end where the timeline becomes confusing. I wasn't sure how long it had been between River watching opera singer Amara's performace and her New Year's Eve announcement.
The story primarily unfolds within the two leads' apartments and has limited exploration of Brooklyn outside of throwaway lines. The setting feels generic and could easily have taken place in another city like Portland or Seattle.
The cover art is visually appealing. It showcases the two gorgeous women embracing against a beautiful cityscape backdrop. However, the typography leaves much to be desired.
Overall, "The Cynic's Christmas Conundrum" presents a sweet wintery romance with between two characters with interesting and unique professions (an opera singer and graphic designer). However, the initial conflict between Amara and River felt weak. The relationship felt more like a "weak dislike to lovers" rather than "enemies to lovers." This book includes an explicit sex scene. It is a quick read for those looking for a lighthearted wlw romance.