Review of ‘Holme for the holidays’ by Miranda Macleod,

Audiobook narrated by Stephanie Murphy

Paige is an American musician with a broken heart who decides to swap her home in California for an extended stay in Yorkshire. There she meets Fiona, an intriguing farmer, and owner of a pub. They engage in a one night stand thinking they won’t see each other again without realising that they are next-door neighbours. As they get to know each other, it gets increasingly harder to deny their powerful attraction. Will they be able to have a happily ever after?

This is book 2 of Miranda Macleod’s ‘Americans abroad’ series featuring American women finding love abroad. They are all romantic comedies with sweet stories humorous situations and some soul-searching. This particular story takes place in Yorkshire, England a few weeks before Christmas. The author exploits the differences between America and Britain in traditions and language but also finds common ground between the main characters. Even though this story deals with some serious issues like bereavement and life choices, the general tone of the novel is light, hopeful and full of Christmas spirit.

The audiobook is narrated by Stephanie Murphy, who narrates the rest of the series. I found that her voice and pace were a perfect match for the light tone of the story. However, the voices of the different characters weren’t distinguishable enough in pitch and accent. It’s not a big issue as it is easy enough to follow the dialogues without getting lost on who says what but I personally prefer them more different. Despite that, I enjoyed the overall result.

Available on Audible Escape. Duration: 7 hrs and 34 mins

Overall, a good installment of the lesbian romance series, sweet and hopeful with a satisfactory narration. 4 stars.