4*
A few years ago, I read The Roughest Draft, a romance about two authors (and ex-lovers) who are forced together to co-write the final book of their contract. I remember disliking it intensely because of the clear animosity between the two emotionally-repressed protagonists and feeling like I didn’t want them to have a second chance. There was also a slimeball agent vs. the editors and publicity manager in this story who truly seem to have Nick and Jess’s best interests at heart. Although All I Want is You has a similar premise, the sense of hope and holiday spirit in this story is the antithesis of its lesser counterpart. Yes, it’s a second chance, forced proximity romance in which the protagonists are co-writing a holiday romance that somewhat mirrors their own, but it’s also obvious from the start that Nick and Jess still very much care for each other despite a painful breakup five years prior. Although there are lingering heartbreak and questions about what led to the breakup, there’s also respect and admiration for what they’ve each accomplished in their careers, even if Nick’s trajectory has been steep and highly-successful while Jess’s has been slow and steady, but not yet to the point she can quit her day job. I love the way author Ballard manages to weave together a story within a story that loosely follows the rekindling of their romance and seamlessly blends their differing writing styles. The setting, a cozy cabin-style boutique hotel in upstate New York during a blizzard, decked out in its Christmas finery, is delightful and the perfect backdrop for this sweet, but steamy holiday romance. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from G.P. Putnam’s Sons through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
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