In her latest release, Lauren Asher delivers a charming holiday novella that manages to pack all the warmth and magic of a full-length romance into a delightfully compact story. Set in the enchanting lakeside town of Lake Wisteria, “My December Darling” introduces us to Catalina Martinez and Luke Darling, two characters whose chemistry sparkles brighter than Christmas lights.
The Heart of the Story
At its core, this novella explores the complexities of finding love in unexpected places. Catalina, our reserved protagonist, returns home to serve as maid of honor in her sister’s wedding—to Catalina’s ex-boyfriend, no less. Enter Luke Darling, the best man who’s determined to break through Catalina’s carefully constructed walls. The premise might sound familiar, but Asher’s execution feels fresh and genuine.
Character Development
One of the story’s strongest elements is its character work. Catalina’s journey from guarded traveling nurse to someone willing to risk her heart again feels authentic and earned. Her initial resistance to Luke stems from genuine emotional barriers rather than contrived misunderstandings, which makes their eventual connection more satisfying.
Luke Darling proves to be more than just a handsome doctor with a fitting surname. His perfectionism and family background add layers to what could have been a one-dimensional “nice guy” character. The way he uses LEGOs as both a hobby and a connection point with Catalina is particularly endearing.
Writing Style & Pacing
The novella format works surprisingly well for this story. Asher maintains a brisk pace without sacrificing emotional depth or character development. Her writing style is warm and inviting, with dialogue that feels natural and moments of humor that land effectively.
Notable Strengths:
- Strong sense of place—Lake Wisteria feels like a real, lived-in community
- Well-integrated holiday elements that enhance rather than overwhelm the story
- Authentic representation of Puerto Rican family traditions
- Natural progression of the romance despite the compressed timeline
Cultural Elements
The incorporation of Puerto Rican holiday traditions, particularly the parranda scene, adds richness to the narrative and provides authentic cultural representation. These elements feel naturally woven into the story rather than included as mere window dressing.
Areas for Improvement
While the novella largely succeeds in what it sets out to do, there are a few areas where it could have been stronger:
- The subplot involving Catalina’s relationship with her mother feels slightly underdeveloped
- The transition from Luke and Catalina’s initial tension to attraction happens somewhat quickly
- Some secondary characters could have been more fully realized
Romance Development
The progression of Luke and Catalina’s relationship is skillfully handled despite the novella’s length constraints. Their shared interest in LEGOs provides an endearing connection point, while their professional lives as healthcare workers add depth to their interactions.
Setting & Atmosphere
Lake Wisteria serves as more than just a backdrop—it becomes almost a character in itself. Asher’s description of the small town during the holiday season creates a cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements the romance.
Comparison to Other Works
Fans of Asher’s Lakefront Billionaires series will notice a shift in tone and scope, but the author’s talent for creating compelling relationships remains constant. While Luke isn’t a billionaire like her previous heroes, his character is no less appealing for it.
Technical Elements
Narrative Structure:
- Dual POV between Catalina and Luke
- Present tense narration
- Well-paced scene transitions
- Effective use of flashbacks and backstory
Impact and Resonance
What sets “My December Darling” apart is its exploration of themes beyond the central romance:
- The meaning of home and belonging
- Family dynamics and healing
- Professional dedication vs. personal fulfillment
- The courage required to change long-held patterns
Target Audience Appeal
This novella will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy:
- Small-town holiday romances
- Medical romance elements
- Cultural diversity in contemporary romance
- Character-driven narratives
- Grumpy-sunshine dynamics
Final Verdict
“My December Darling” successfully delivers everything readers want in a holiday romance while adding its own unique touches. The novella format proves perfect for this story, creating an ideal reading experience for busy holiday seasons.
Recommendation
This book is perfect for readers seeking a cozy holiday romance with depth. While it can be read as a standalone, it may inspire readers to explore more of Lake Wisteria through Asher’s other works.
Similar Books Readers Might Enjoy
- “The Holiday Swap” by Maggie Knox
- “In a Holidaze” by Christina Lauren
- “Window Shopping” by Tessa Bailey
Author’s Growth
This novella demonstrates Asher’s versatility as an author. Moving from billionaire romances to this more grounded story shows her range while maintaining the emotional authenticity her readers expect.
Conclusion
“My December Darling” proves that sometimes the best gifts come in small packages. Lauren Asher has crafted a holiday romance that manages to be both sweet and substantial, making it a perfect addition to any romance reader’s holiday collection. The story serves as a reminder that sometimes finding love requires staying in one place long enough to let it catch up with you.