While recovering from a devastating breakup, Dan Malone meets Emily Kowalski. They could be perfect together, but is the timing right? Carolyn Astfalk’s Ornamental Graces then follows the pair over the next couple years with plenty of sweet, dramatic, frustrating maybe-they-will-maybe-they-won’t moments.

Now, I’m game to read a Christmas story any time of the year. I really love a good, fun holiday romance—and that’s exactly what I expected when I started Ornamental Graces. I quickly discovered that it’s not as Christmas-y as the cover suggests, which, I’ll admit, had me a little disappointed. Yes, there are scenes that occur around Christmas, but since the plot spans several years, it doesn’t maintain the holiday feel I love.

Still, I did enjoy getting to know Dan, Emily, and all their emotional baggage. In spite of the slow pacing and not-always-believable situations and reactions, the growth experienced throughout Ornamental Graces does have its uplifting moments.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own. ( )

Dan is damaged, the last woman he was with taking every last ounce of self-respect when she dumped him. So when bubbly Emily comes into his life, he's not sure how to take it.

Emily is trying to figure out where her life is going. She's moved out of her brother's place, but she's not really taking life by the horns. When Dan comes into her life, she's intrigued, but his hot and cold routine just confirms everything she fears about herself - that she's just not pretty enough, and no man with a better option will give her the time of day.

This is a sweet romance - great for any time of year - in which two people find themselves as they find each other. There's a deep Catholic resonance running through the story as well, which becomes as much of a redemption story as it is a romance.

Highly recommended if you love women's fiction and romance with a sprinkling of Christmas magic thrown in. ( )