Book Review: Christmas With a Crank by Lillian Li
As the holiday season rolled in, I found myself thirsting for that blend of nostalgia and heart-warming romance, which is why Christmas With a Crank by Lillian Li caught my attention. The title itself sparked memories of childhood shivers on snow-dusted evenings, with a touch of grumpiness and a dash of romance? Count me in!
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Pine Creek, a family-run Christmas tree farm, the story reunites childhood locales and lost loves in a delightful second chance narrative. Liam Fisher’s return to Pine Creek after twenty years is anything but exhilarating—he’s haunted by the thought of inheriting the family legacy and finding himself practically a stranger in a place filled with so many cherished memories. The weight of nostalgia clashes with his adult reality in a way that feels painfully relatable. How many of us have returned to our childhood homes only to find that time has altered both the landmarks and the people we once knew?
On the other hand, we have Olive Witherby, Liam’s childhood crush, who remains stuck in her own cycle of failures and missteps. Li does an amazing job of conveying Olive’s struggles as she attempts to reignite the magic of the tree farm before it fades away completely. It’s inspiring to watch her take initiative, even when it all seems to be stacking against her—an embodiment of hope in a world that seems determined to keep her down. Their relationship unfolds in a series of beautifully written moments that hint at unresolved feelings, bringing laughter, tenderness, and, of course, plenty of festive charm.
What struck me most was the delightful dynamic between the grumpy Liam and the sunny Olive. They embody the classic grumpy/sunshine trope, and watching Olive’s earnest efforts to draw Liam out of his shell was both charming and frustrating (the good kind!). Lillian Li’s writing is engaging and flows effortlessly, imbibing a sense of warmth that perfectly reflects the essence of the season.
One of my favorite quotes, “Sometimes, happiness is hiding in the most unexpected places,” perfectly encapsulates the heart of the story. It reminds us that life often surprises us, especially during those reflective moments around the holidays when we reconnect with what truly matters.
Christmas With a Crank is a delightful read that will resonate with anyone who believes in second chances, whether in love or in life. The book artfully blends humor and heart, making it an ideal pick for cozy, festive reading. If you’ve ever experienced the bittersweet pangs of nostalgia or cringed through a cringe-worthy date, you’ll find a kindred spirit in Olive.
In conclusion, I would recommend Christmas With a Crank to anyone looking to snuggle up with a book that warms the heart and lifts the spirit. It’s perfect for those who cherish holiday tales woven with threads of childhood memories and the promise of new beginnings. As for me? This charming story rekindled my belief in Christmas magic and, a small part of my heart, believes in the promise of second chances too. Grab a cup of cocoa, a soft blanket, and let Lillian Li’s delightful narrative transport you to Pine Creek this Christmas!
Discover more about Christmas With a Crank on GoodReads >>