In T'Ann Marie's "Wrapped Up in a St. Louis Street God This Christmas," Promise Peterson is struggling to embrace the holiday season after a devastating loss on the previous Christmas Eve. Her grief is unexpectedly challenged by Ryan "Choppa" Griggs, a powerful St. Louis figure with a charitable heart. Their instant attraction is undeniable, but a shocking revelation threatens to shatter Promise's fragile peace. Choppa, who holds sway over the city's streets, discovers a connection to her past heartbreak, leaving him racing against time to mend a broken heart and save Christmas. Will he succeed in repairing the damage before another Christmas Eve arrives, filled with more sorrow?
Review WRAPPED UP IN A ST. LOUIS STREET GOD THIS CHRISTMAS
"Wrapped Up in a St. Louis Street God This Christmas" completely charmed me! It’s a heartwarming Christmas novella that perfectly captures the spirit of the season while also delivering a captivating romance. T'Ann Marie crafted a story that's both sweet and spicy, leaving me with that wonderfully fuzzy feeling you get after indulging in a delicious holiday treat.
The central romance between Promise and Choppa is undeniably the heart of the story. Their connection felt genuine and passionate, even amidst the hurt and betrayal they both carried. Watching them navigate their past traumas and find solace in each other was incredibly moving. Choppa, with his street smarts and undeniable charisma, is a true alpha male, but he also possesses a surprising tenderness that melts Promise's initially guarded heart. Their journey wasn't without its bumps – and the revelation about Choppa’s involvement in her past grief was definitely a gut-wrenching moment – but their eventual reconciliation felt earned and satisfying. It reaffirmed the power of forgiveness and second chances, especially during a time of year focused on hope and renewal.
Beyond the central couple, the supporting characters were equally engaging. Promise's fiercely protective mother, Paula, was a standout. Her no-nonsense attitude and unwavering love for her daughter added a delightful dose of humor and realism. The bond between Promise and her best friend/sister was beautifully portrayed, showcasing the importance of supportive female friendships. And little Ryan Jr.? Absolutely adorable! Her interactions with Promise added a layer of sweetness and further highlighted the growth and healing Promise experienced.
The St. Louis setting also added a unique flavor to the narrative. While I'm not familiar with the city myself, the author vividly painted a picture of its vibrant culture and community, which added a nice touch of authenticity to the story.
While some readers mentioned a slight inconsistency in the timeline, it didn't detract significantly from my overall enjoyment. The story's pace was perfect for a novella, allowing for a quick, immersive read without feeling rushed. The author effectively captured all the essential elements of a feel-good holiday romance: a captivating couple, supporting characters you’ll adore, and just the right amount of festive cheer.
Overall, "Wrapped Up in a St. Louis Street God This Christmas" is a highly recommended read for anyone seeking a heartwarming and engaging Christmas romance. It's the perfect blend of emotional depth, sizzling chemistry, and heartwarming moments that leave you feeling satisfied and wanting more from these captivating characters. I particularly appreciated the focus on healing and the power of love to overcome even the deepest wounds. I wholeheartedly agree with other readers—I desperately want more stories featuring these characters and their extended circle! Give me more Paula! Give me more of Promise and her bestie! And definitely more Choppa! This novella truly left a lasting impression, and I eagerly anticipate more from T'Ann Marie.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 0.24 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 106
- Publication date: 2025
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