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If The Fates Allow
“Nobody comes to Tidings by accident."
A glistening, charming winter wonderland was the last place skeptical Alice wanted to be this holiday season — until fate introduced her to Silas...Will a little holiday romance be just what she needs to turn her luck around?
Accidentally sending a NSFW image to 30,000 people is enough to get anyone fired. Now, Alice Woods is desperate to flee the sunbaked Arizona desert for a fresh start. On a whim, she accepts a three-month job in snow-covered Tidings, where the locals claim fate has a way of drawing the right people to the town, and to each other.
Silas Hill, Tidings' golden boy and beloved town physician, seems perfectly content in this picturesque snow-globe town. But after a few chance encounters, Alice recognizes the longing in his eyes that he conceals behind a practiced mask. He yearns for something foamy waves, sun-drenched beaches, and a peace that constantly eludes him. When Alice sweeps into his carefully constructed world like a tumbleweed, Silas realizes he isn't the only one hiding from reality.
As temperatures plunge, Silas and Alice's chemistry heats up, forcing them to question whether the whispers about Tidings' magic are more than just local lore. But as Alice's planned departure draws near, can they both confront what they've been avoiding and realize that sometimes the peace you seek isn't found in a place, it's found in a person?
A glistening, charming winter wonderland was the last place skeptical Alice wanted to be this holiday season — until fate introduced her to Silas...Will a little holiday romance be just what she needs to turn her luck around?
Accidentally sending a NSFW image to 30,000 people is enough to get anyone fired. Now, Alice Woods is desperate to flee the sunbaked Arizona desert for a fresh start. On a whim, she accepts a three-month job in snow-covered Tidings, where the locals claim fate has a way of drawing the right people to the town, and to each other.
Silas Hill, Tidings' golden boy and beloved town physician, seems perfectly content in this picturesque snow-globe town. But after a few chance encounters, Alice recognizes the longing in his eyes that he conceals behind a practiced mask. He yearns for something foamy waves, sun-drenched beaches, and a peace that constantly eludes him. When Alice sweeps into his carefully constructed world like a tumbleweed, Silas realizes he isn't the only one hiding from reality.
As temperatures plunge, Silas and Alice's chemistry heats up, forcing them to question whether the whispers about Tidings' magic are more than just local lore. But as Alice's planned departure draws near, can they both confront what they've been avoiding and realize that sometimes the peace you seek isn't found in a place, it's found in a person?
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2024
6 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 18, 2024
Thank you to Luna Literacy and Marysa Stevens for providing me with an ARC for “If the Fates allow.” All reviews and opinions are my own.
If the fates allow is a magic infused tale of Alice and Silias who are *maybe* brought together by fate. Alice’s life is thrown off course after losing her job and her boyfriend. As she states in the book, she feels like “nobody needs me.” Silias is the small town doctor who provides for everyone in the town, but is clear from early on that he hates it there. When Alice comes to Tidings, the two are drawn together by fate.
I absolutely ADORED this book. I finished it in less than a day. I loved both of the main characters and the side characters who helped support, humanize and challenge the main characters. The spice was perfect🧑🍳 😘
“It was childlike to believe in magic, and yet, undoubtedly whatever was happening here was just that. Pure, glistening, irrefutable magic.”
Tropes
Small town romance 🧍♂️ 🩷 🧍♀️
Fate ✨
Holiday romance 🎅🏼
If the fates allow is a magic infused tale of Alice and Silias who are *maybe* brought together by fate. Alice’s life is thrown off course after losing her job and her boyfriend. As she states in the book, she feels like “nobody needs me.” Silias is the small town doctor who provides for everyone in the town, but is clear from early on that he hates it there. When Alice comes to Tidings, the two are drawn together by fate.
I absolutely ADORED this book. I finished it in less than a day. I loved both of the main characters and the side characters who helped support, humanize and challenge the main characters. The spice was perfect🧑🍳 😘
“It was childlike to believe in magic, and yet, undoubtedly whatever was happening here was just that. Pure, glistening, irrefutable magic.”
Tropes
Small town romance 🧍♂️ 🩷 🧍♀️
Fate ✨
Holiday romance 🎅🏼
December 20, 2024
Thank you to the author and to Luna Lit Mgt. for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book was fun! It was fast paced, character driven, and the tension was palpable! I liked the cadence of the writing, and I found myself laughing aloud at some of the banter and scenarios sudddenly (particularly because of Ginger, who is my favorite character in this whole thing!) The main characters had their relatable moments, and I think they were well fleshed out. Emotions came across really well to me in this story to the point that I felt the second hand embarrassment when the FMC was going through her work ordeal!
This was a really entertaining book and I recommend it for holiday romance enthusiasts who are fans of the opposites attract, change and grow, and instant attraction tropes.
I really enjoyed my time with this and I can’t wait to see more from this debut author!
This book was fun! It was fast paced, character driven, and the tension was palpable! I liked the cadence of the writing, and I found myself laughing aloud at some of the banter and scenarios sudddenly (particularly because of Ginger, who is my favorite character in this whole thing!) The main characters had their relatable moments, and I think they were well fleshed out. Emotions came across really well to me in this story to the point that I felt the second hand embarrassment when the FMC was going through her work ordeal!
This was a really entertaining book and I recommend it for holiday romance enthusiasts who are fans of the opposites attract, change and grow, and instant attraction tropes.
I really enjoyed my time with this and I can’t wait to see more from this debut author!
December 17, 2024
I was actually worried about starting to read this book and being let down. I’ve had a string of ARC letdowns, and so it took me a little longer to start this one then I normally would have taken.
And now I just feel silly. Even though this wasn’t necessarily a Christmas book it was perfect for the Christmas timeframe.
Just imagine a hallmark card of a winter wonderland. Otherwise known as hell for people who come from Arizona and California apparently. 😂
The book is filled with a bunch of hilarious characters and I found myself saving quotes to send my book group.
I know this is the debut novel, and the first novel and what feels like a series, but I really wish the author went more into the whole idea of fate in the background of the city and what’s really going on, because I feel like things were left out And it really could’ve been an “aha moment” but instead I’m left feeling just a little confused as to what is actually going on is there fate, is their magic or is it just luck?
And now I just feel silly. Even though this wasn’t necessarily a Christmas book it was perfect for the Christmas timeframe.
Just imagine a hallmark card of a winter wonderland. Otherwise known as hell for people who come from Arizona and California apparently. 😂
The book is filled with a bunch of hilarious characters and I found myself saving quotes to send my book group.
I know this is the debut novel, and the first novel and what feels like a series, but I really wish the author went more into the whole idea of fate in the background of the city and what’s really going on, because I feel like things were left out And it really could’ve been an “aha moment” but instead I’m left feeling just a little confused as to what is actually going on is there fate, is their magic or is it just luck?
December 21, 2024
DNF at 33%
thank you to luna literary management for the arc
thank you to luna literary management for the arc
January 7, 2025
It is so easy to fall in love with these characters and with the magic of Tidings. This story is the perfect balance of humor, romance, and holiday whimsy. While the town is magical, the life challenges and obstacles faced are very real life - characters finding out who they are and how they want to show up in this life in their own special ways. I didn’t want the story to end and I miss these characters. (Patrick, will you be my BFF?!)
December 10, 2024
Congratulations to Marysa Stevens on her debut novel. I saw this book on Luna Literary's website to request an ARC copy. I was intrigued by the blurb of the book; it sounded interesting and had a plot that I hadn't really read before, although the trope is quite common for me.
I found the overall story to be very cute. The main driver is fate, and destiny makes everything fall into place. For that reason alone, I pushed forward on finishing the book because, in all honesty, I found it difficult at times to follow along with everything. I think this is the classic case of a debut author. I truly believe that once Marysa Stevens gets a bit more practice under her belt, she can become one of my go-to authors.
This story follows Alice from sunny, dry, hot Arizona to Tidings, a small American town that feels like it is located near the North Pole. After a horrible day at work, during which Alice commits a stupid and costly mistake, she is fired, only to have her boyfriend break up with her via an eviction notice and somehow take all her savings.
In a desperate search to find a new job immediately and escape Arizona, she applies for a job at a hotel/lodge in Tidings. Well, in truth, I don't know if she applied for the job or if was magic (similar to the movies when "fate" works some sort of inexplicable "magic"). Traveling to Tidings via planes, trains, and automobiles, she meets Silas, one of the local medics who is returning from his vacation in sunny California. He feels an instant attraction towards Alice but doesn't really act on it in the beginning. However, since Tidings is a small mountain town, the residents all know each other or start to get to know each other.
This odd bunch of Tidings residents have big hearts and love to gossip and meddle. These secondary characters (Ginger, Broar, Elvin, Dagny, and Silas’s dog Snof) are amazing additions to the story. It's clear they are Silas' entourage of people in Tidings but they quickly become Alice's as well. They welcome her with open arms while also saying things in a very direct manner, never beating around the bush (especially Ginger). They’re quirky and lovable in their own ways which makes their adventures in the town of Tidings feel even more magical. They believe that the town of Tidings possesses some sort of magic, and "fate" is what brings people to the town on a long-term basis to play matchmaker or find some other purpose in life.
Well that is what happens with Alice and Silas. They become friends and the attraction soon becomes too much, so they eventually succumb to their chemistry. However, while they each have their own issues, neither were looking for long-term. Alice had gone through this traumatic and embarrassing set of events in Arizona, and she was too ashamed to say it out loud, especially to Silas. Silas, for his part, is tired of being in cold, dreary Tidings for 4 years, and he is ready to leave for sunny weather and other professional opportunities where he doesn't feel like he is being overworked. A lack of an open conversation leads them to wonder, almost until the last minute, if they have a future together or if their "friends with benefits" situation will only be good for the couple of months that Alice is going to be in Tidings.
My complaint about the book is some of the smaller details. Sometimes it felt that I had skipped pages, only to go back and realize that I hadn't. There are details that are omitted or skimed through that had me confused. There are some parts that came on immediately and it had me backtracking. An example is Alice's drinking. On the page, we see her have 1, maybe 2 drinks, and then it goes into her being drunk. Not tipsy, not a little wobbly, but full-on drunk. She starts to confess things or do things that seem too quick for what is being described in the scene. It's as if we jump from point 2 to point 9 in the span of a paragraph with no explanation.
I don't know. I am now two days removed from finishing the book, and I think back on it and can say I enjoyed the overall story. However, my sensation while reading it was that I was pushing myself to finish it and that it wasn't going to be a book I remembered long term. I almost felt indifferent about it.
Do I recommend it if it is on Prime Reading or Kindle Unlimited or pick it up from your library? Yes. Do I encourage you to go out and buy it? I'm not sure. I would lean more towards NO, but that depends on your personal taste in books. I usually read on my Kindle from the KU library or books that I get on offer. The only ones I consider purchasing now in physical copy are the ones that speak to my soul and usually have a good amount of spice. This book didn't meet either of the two requirements.
Thank you Luna Literacy and Marysa Stevens for the ARC.
I found the overall story to be very cute. The main driver is fate, and destiny makes everything fall into place. For that reason alone, I pushed forward on finishing the book because, in all honesty, I found it difficult at times to follow along with everything. I think this is the classic case of a debut author. I truly believe that once Marysa Stevens gets a bit more practice under her belt, she can become one of my go-to authors.
This story follows Alice from sunny, dry, hot Arizona to Tidings, a small American town that feels like it is located near the North Pole. After a horrible day at work, during which Alice commits a stupid and costly mistake, she is fired, only to have her boyfriend break up with her via an eviction notice and somehow take all her savings.
In a desperate search to find a new job immediately and escape Arizona, she applies for a job at a hotel/lodge in Tidings. Well, in truth, I don't know if she applied for the job or if was magic (similar to the movies when "fate" works some sort of inexplicable "magic"). Traveling to Tidings via planes, trains, and automobiles, she meets Silas, one of the local medics who is returning from his vacation in sunny California. He feels an instant attraction towards Alice but doesn't really act on it in the beginning. However, since Tidings is a small mountain town, the residents all know each other or start to get to know each other.
This odd bunch of Tidings residents have big hearts and love to gossip and meddle. These secondary characters (Ginger, Broar, Elvin, Dagny, and Silas’s dog Snof) are amazing additions to the story. It's clear they are Silas' entourage of people in Tidings but they quickly become Alice's as well. They welcome her with open arms while also saying things in a very direct manner, never beating around the bush (especially Ginger). They’re quirky and lovable in their own ways which makes their adventures in the town of Tidings feel even more magical. They believe that the town of Tidings possesses some sort of magic, and "fate" is what brings people to the town on a long-term basis to play matchmaker or find some other purpose in life.
Well that is what happens with Alice and Silas. They become friends and the attraction soon becomes too much, so they eventually succumb to their chemistry. However, while they each have their own issues, neither were looking for long-term. Alice had gone through this traumatic and embarrassing set of events in Arizona, and she was too ashamed to say it out loud, especially to Silas. Silas, for his part, is tired of being in cold, dreary Tidings for 4 years, and he is ready to leave for sunny weather and other professional opportunities where he doesn't feel like he is being overworked. A lack of an open conversation leads them to wonder, almost until the last minute, if they have a future together or if their "friends with benefits" situation will only be good for the couple of months that Alice is going to be in Tidings.
My complaint about the book is some of the smaller details. Sometimes it felt that I had skipped pages, only to go back and realize that I hadn't. There are details that are omitted or skimed through that had me confused. There are some parts that came on immediately and it had me backtracking. An example is Alice's drinking. On the page, we see her have 1, maybe 2 drinks, and then it goes into her being drunk. Not tipsy, not a little wobbly, but full-on drunk. She starts to confess things or do things that seem too quick for what is being described in the scene. It's as if we jump from point 2 to point 9 in the span of a paragraph with no explanation.
I don't know. I am now two days removed from finishing the book, and I think back on it and can say I enjoyed the overall story. However, my sensation while reading it was that I was pushing myself to finish it and that it wasn't going to be a book I remembered long term. I almost felt indifferent about it.
Do I recommend it if it is on Prime Reading or Kindle Unlimited or pick it up from your library? Yes. Do I encourage you to go out and buy it? I'm not sure. I would lean more towards NO, but that depends on your personal taste in books. I usually read on my Kindle from the KU library or books that I get on offer. The only ones I consider purchasing now in physical copy are the ones that speak to my soul and usually have a good amount of spice. This book didn't meet either of the two requirements.
Thank you Luna Literacy and Marysa Stevens for the ARC.
December 13, 2024
This was a really cute holiday read and if you believe in fate, this is the perfect rom com for you.
After accidentally emailing a funny AI picture of her boss out, Alice is fired from her job in Arizona and is looking for a new start. She stumbles upon a job offering in a quant little town called Tidings.
It is the picturesque Christmas town that you’d see in a Hallmark movie and I wish it was a town I could visit. While there, she meets the towns physician, Silas. The two have instant chemistry, but Alice seems a bit hesitant because she is still holding onto what happened to her in Arizona.
Alice finds herself in some awkward situations and I couldn’t help but laugh. She finally figures things out with Silas and it seemed the two of them were destined to be together.
I loved the side characters as well, especially Ginger. I’d love to see more of her story.
After accidentally emailing a funny AI picture of her boss out, Alice is fired from her job in Arizona and is looking for a new start. She stumbles upon a job offering in a quant little town called Tidings.
It is the picturesque Christmas town that you’d see in a Hallmark movie and I wish it was a town I could visit. While there, she meets the towns physician, Silas. The two have instant chemistry, but Alice seems a bit hesitant because she is still holding onto what happened to her in Arizona.
Alice finds herself in some awkward situations and I couldn’t help but laugh. She finally figures things out with Silas and it seemed the two of them were destined to be together.
I loved the side characters as well, especially Ginger. I’d love to see more of her story.
February 14, 2025
I absolutely loved the fictional town of Tidings and its quirky cast of characters! This winter romance had a great twist on the usual grumpy-sunshine trope, in that both of the main characters were grumpy in their own ways. I could also totally relate to Alice’s disdain for cold weather! Highly recommend this rom-com for anyone looking to escape into a cozy book with touches of magical realism (the active hand of fate), powerful romantic chemistry, and supporting characters that make the journey that much more satisfying.
A perfect read to warm your heart on a cold day!
A perfect read to warm your heart on a cold day!
May 14, 2025
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“I’ve always found it disturbing that you decapitate the bear.”
Alice Woods is a queen of piss-poor decisions, having become a TikTok trending sensation after accidentally emailing an AI-altered image of herself dressed as a motorcycle king, surrounded by sex dolls, to 33,000 Arizona city employees—turning her into a viral disaster. As a result, she was served an eviction notice from her boyfriend, Mark, specifying twenty-four hours to leave the premises, with anything left behind discarded at her own cost. Now she’s jobless, homeless, and a card-carrying member of the publicly humiliated club. Desperate to explore new opportunities, she accepts a three-month front desk job at the Evermore Winter Lodge in Tidings, a position that at least offers a place to stay. There, she meets Silas, a decent man—an ER doctor—and they end up dating and hooking up. Things shift when he turns out to be the ideal love of a man, telling her over and over again how much he loves her. But he doesn’t know her whole story.
This debut novel totally caught me off guard—in the best way! I had to reread the first two pages and recheck the title because I seriously thought I’d accidentally picked up a fantasy book (note to the author: please try romantasy next—I’ll be first in line!). The writing was so engaging, it actually pulled me away from my usual routine of online shopping, planner time, journaling, and YouTube vlogs while reading—I’m that type of multitasker! For a Christmas novel, it’s something you can enjoy any time of the year—it doesn’t rely too heavily on the holiday setting. The dialogue is witty without trying too hard, and I loved how it touched on real emotions like anxiety, excitement, and infatuation without leaving a heavy feeling. We’ve got a hookup with major “right person, wrong time” energy, a hidden identity twist. What started as just a good time turns into something that feels like forever—and I was all in!
A big thanks to Luna Literary Management and Marysa Stevens for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
—
#lateARCreview
“I’ve always found it disturbing that you decapitate the bear.”
Alice Woods is a queen of piss-poor decisions, having become a TikTok trending sensation after accidentally emailing an AI-altered image of herself dressed as a motorcycle king, surrounded by sex dolls, to 33,000 Arizona city employees—turning her into a viral disaster. As a result, she was served an eviction notice from her boyfriend, Mark, specifying twenty-four hours to leave the premises, with anything left behind discarded at her own cost. Now she’s jobless, homeless, and a card-carrying member of the publicly humiliated club. Desperate to explore new opportunities, she accepts a three-month front desk job at the Evermore Winter Lodge in Tidings, a position that at least offers a place to stay. There, she meets Silas, a decent man—an ER doctor—and they end up dating and hooking up. Things shift when he turns out to be the ideal love of a man, telling her over and over again how much he loves her. But he doesn’t know her whole story.
This debut novel totally caught me off guard—in the best way! I had to reread the first two pages and recheck the title because I seriously thought I’d accidentally picked up a fantasy book (note to the author: please try romantasy next—I’ll be first in line!). The writing was so engaging, it actually pulled me away from my usual routine of online shopping, planner time, journaling, and YouTube vlogs while reading—I’m that type of multitasker! For a Christmas novel, it’s something you can enjoy any time of the year—it doesn’t rely too heavily on the holiday setting. The dialogue is witty without trying too hard, and I loved how it touched on real emotions like anxiety, excitement, and infatuation without leaving a heavy feeling. We’ve got a hookup with major “right person, wrong time” energy, a hidden identity twist. What started as just a good time turns into something that feels like forever—and I was all in!
A big thanks to Luna Literary Management and Marysa Stevens for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
—
#lateARCreview
December 9, 2024
A new take on snowy, small town romance with a touch humor that made me laugh out loud 🏔️🩵
⭐ Rating Criteria ⭐
🩵 Plot:
First off, the plot, while cliche in terms of its premise, was so good. I really liked the set up of why Alice had to move - honestly, it was hilarious and I couldn't help but laugh even though it was unfortunate for her. Moreover, I loved the romantic development, and I thought the overall timeline was plotted nicely. I also really liked the "nobody comes to Tidings by accident" aspect, and I think that concept was executed perfectly in this story.
🩵 Characters:
I loved the characters - both the main and supporting roles - and I thought they were so fun to read about. I especially liked Ginger a lot, and I would definitely want to read about her as the main character, although I'm not sure what the author's plans are since this is her debut book.
I really liked how the romance between Silas and Alice played out so well. Again, the timeline was just right in my opinion, and I appreciate how the author didn't rush it.
🩵 Writing Style:
Honestly, this was such an easy read. The plot was structured really well, and it flowed nicely. I was reading for about 2 hours until I realized I was already about to finish the book, so I had to force myself to stop because I wanted to sit with the story more. It was just that good! 🩵
🩵 Overall:
I really loved this - this was a 5-star prediction for me and I'm glad it lived up to my expectations. It didn't have the typical small town romance ending, so it was a really nice change. I'm surprised this was a debut book because of how well it was done. This just put the author on my radar, and I can't wait to read more of her works in the future 🩵
Thank you so much to Luna Literary Management and the author for allowing me to share my honest review of this ARC read ❤️
⭐ Rating Criteria ⭐
🩵 Plot:
First off, the plot, while cliche in terms of its premise, was so good. I really liked the set up of why Alice had to move - honestly, it was hilarious and I couldn't help but laugh even though it was unfortunate for her. Moreover, I loved the romantic development, and I thought the overall timeline was plotted nicely. I also really liked the "nobody comes to Tidings by accident" aspect, and I think that concept was executed perfectly in this story.
🩵 Characters:
I loved the characters - both the main and supporting roles - and I thought they were so fun to read about. I especially liked Ginger a lot, and I would definitely want to read about her as the main character, although I'm not sure what the author's plans are since this is her debut book.
I really liked how the romance between Silas and Alice played out so well. Again, the timeline was just right in my opinion, and I appreciate how the author didn't rush it.
🩵 Writing Style:
Honestly, this was such an easy read. The plot was structured really well, and it flowed nicely. I was reading for about 2 hours until I realized I was already about to finish the book, so I had to force myself to stop because I wanted to sit with the story more. It was just that good! 🩵
🩵 Overall:
I really loved this - this was a 5-star prediction for me and I'm glad it lived up to my expectations. It didn't have the typical small town romance ending, so it was a really nice change. I'm surprised this was a debut book because of how well it was done. This just put the author on my radar, and I can't wait to read more of her works in the future 🩵
Thank you so much to Luna Literary Management and the author for allowing me to share my honest review of this ARC read ❤️
December 27, 2024
Rating: 4🌟
Spice: 🌶
Huge congratulations to Marysa on her debut novel! 'If The Fates Allow' is the perfect cozy holiday romcom that wraps you in warmth and leaves you smiling long after you’ve finished.
Alice, our FMC, begins the story by fleeing the mess of her life to the remote town of Tidings. Do you think she gets the quiet escape she wants? No! Instead, she finds a community full of quirky characters, a dash of magic, and perhaps even the love she’s been running from. Alice is highly relatable, and despite her flaws and mistakes, she grows into herself in the most uplifting way. As she lets go of the past and embraces a life she wasn't expecting, she does so with her wit and self-deprecating humour, which I couldn't get enough of.
Now you are probably wondering who our MMC is?......Enter Silas, Tidings local doctor. He's caring and dependable, and he’s everything you want in a leading man. The chemistry between him and Alice is palpable, and their relationship is brimming with tension, heartache, and ultimately, the kind of payoff that makes you believe in love all over again.
Tidings itself is enchanting, with its eccentric residents and charming sense of community. And yes, there’s a moose! The secondary characters, like Silas’s dog Snof and the lovable Ginger and Dagny, add even more depth to the story and Alice’s personal growth.
If you’re looking for a holiday romance that mixes humour, heart, and magic, "If The Fates Allow" is the one to read. It’ll make you believe in fate, second chances, and unexpected love.
Thank you to @marysastevens.writer and @lunaliterary.management for the ARC — this book brought all the romance magic! ❤️
Spice: 🌶
Huge congratulations to Marysa on her debut novel! 'If The Fates Allow' is the perfect cozy holiday romcom that wraps you in warmth and leaves you smiling long after you’ve finished.
Alice, our FMC, begins the story by fleeing the mess of her life to the remote town of Tidings. Do you think she gets the quiet escape she wants? No! Instead, she finds a community full of quirky characters, a dash of magic, and perhaps even the love she’s been running from. Alice is highly relatable, and despite her flaws and mistakes, she grows into herself in the most uplifting way. As she lets go of the past and embraces a life she wasn't expecting, she does so with her wit and self-deprecating humour, which I couldn't get enough of.
Now you are probably wondering who our MMC is?......Enter Silas, Tidings local doctor. He's caring and dependable, and he’s everything you want in a leading man. The chemistry between him and Alice is palpable, and their relationship is brimming with tension, heartache, and ultimately, the kind of payoff that makes you believe in love all over again.
Tidings itself is enchanting, with its eccentric residents and charming sense of community. And yes, there’s a moose! The secondary characters, like Silas’s dog Snof and the lovable Ginger and Dagny, add even more depth to the story and Alice’s personal growth.
If you’re looking for a holiday romance that mixes humour, heart, and magic, "If The Fates Allow" is the one to read. It’ll make you believe in fate, second chances, and unexpected love.
Thank you to @marysastevens.writer and @lunaliterary.management for the ARC — this book brought all the romance magic! ❤️
December 19, 2024
𝙸𝚏 𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝙵𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚜 𝙰𝚕𝚕𝚘𝚠
Rating: 4/5⭐️
╰┈➤ Are you looking for a winter, sweet, funny and at times melancholic romantic story? You've come to the right place.
⋆୨ Plot ୧⋆
One workday, Alice, while messaging with her friend, makes a little mistake 🤏🏻. After generating an NSFW image with her boss in AI, she accidentally sends it to a large number of people... which leads to her firing.
1 bottle of tequila + a job search from Siri = a new job in the city of Tidings, where it's almost always winter. And after packing almost her entire wardrobe, Alice hits the road.
⋆୨ Main characters ୧⋆
➥ Alice is a 34-year-old woman whose favorite defense reaction is self-defeating jokes (I get it, but it's not okay). But you can also understand her.
She's not fulfilled in her major, has a strained relationship with her family, a horrible boss, and a boyfriend who is more like a habit than a true love.
Her escape does not seem so strange, and is an attempt to find herself. It also shows us that it's perfectly normal to start over, even at an age when you're expected to be somewhat stable.
➥ Silas is a 35-year-old doctor, and a bit of a golden retriever. He's been working in Tidings for four years, but he's tired of freezing his bones and dreams of a new job somewhere in California. However, after meeting Alice, Silas faces a dilemma. Should he finally leave the city he's tired of, but lose Alice (which will destroy him) or stay in the city and be miserable, but with a girl he likes?
The relationship between these two is a real slow burn, even though they were attracted to each other from the very beginning. They complement each other in an interesting way: one is a perfectionist, the other doesn't mind a mess. And while one is afraid and runs away from the possibility of a new relationship, the other will wait and achieve her🙂↕️.
╰┈➤ Conclusion
I liked this book, although some of the “magic” moments made me skeptical. I hardly ever read seasonal books, but this one surprised me with its lightness and humor. I sincerely recommend it if you are looking for something cozy for a winter evening.
Thank you Luna Literary and the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review🤍.
Rating: 4/5⭐️
╰┈➤ Are you looking for a winter, sweet, funny and at times melancholic romantic story? You've come to the right place.
⋆୨ Plot ୧⋆
One workday, Alice, while messaging with her friend, makes a little mistake 🤏🏻. After generating an NSFW image with her boss in AI, she accidentally sends it to a large number of people... which leads to her firing.
1 bottle of tequila + a job search from Siri = a new job in the city of Tidings, where it's almost always winter. And after packing almost her entire wardrobe, Alice hits the road.
⋆୨ Main characters ୧⋆
➥ Alice is a 34-year-old woman whose favorite defense reaction is self-defeating jokes (I get it, but it's not okay). But you can also understand her.
She's not fulfilled in her major, has a strained relationship with her family, a horrible boss, and a boyfriend who is more like a habit than a true love.
Her escape does not seem so strange, and is an attempt to find herself. It also shows us that it's perfectly normal to start over, even at an age when you're expected to be somewhat stable.
➥ Silas is a 35-year-old doctor, and a bit of a golden retriever. He's been working in Tidings for four years, but he's tired of freezing his bones and dreams of a new job somewhere in California. However, after meeting Alice, Silas faces a dilemma. Should he finally leave the city he's tired of, but lose Alice (which will destroy him) or stay in the city and be miserable, but with a girl he likes?
The relationship between these two is a real slow burn, even though they were attracted to each other from the very beginning. They complement each other in an interesting way: one is a perfectionist, the other doesn't mind a mess. And while one is afraid and runs away from the possibility of a new relationship, the other will wait and achieve her🙂↕️.
╰┈➤ Conclusion
I liked this book, although some of the “magic” moments made me skeptical. I hardly ever read seasonal books, but this one surprised me with its lightness and humor. I sincerely recommend it if you are looking for something cozy for a winter evening.
Thank you Luna Literary and the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review🤍.
December 15, 2024
"Nobody comes to Tidings by accident."
If the Fates Allow is the perfect wintertime book to cozy up on the couch with a good cup of peppermint tea. After mistakenly sending an email to 33,000 people containing a lewd AI generated image of her boss, Alice is now without a job, and ready to escape Arizona as fast as possible. When she searches for a job off the face of the earth, her search results show a job offering in Tidings- right on the border of Montana and Canada, and only accessible by train. After deliberation, she decides to pack her bags and heads off into the unknown.
As she reaches for her bag from the airport luggage carousel, her and a man reach for the same luggage at the same time. Meet Silas, a doctor returning back to Tidings after having some respite time in the California sun. This is the first of many meetings they have, and it seems like the draw of fate combined with the magic of Tidings keeps bringing them together. Get ready for the slow burn, the building, the anticipation, with a dash of peppermint, Northern Lights, and the sleepiness those who work night shifts truly understand (I do not miss those days AT ALL!). The character development is perfect, I loved all of the people in town, especially Ginger (Can we get her story one day please?!). And Marshmallow. Don't forget Marshmallow. I was waiting for the moose encounter to appear, and I was not disappointed in the scene that ensues. As much as Silas and Alice try not to fall for each other, the inevitable happens. But it takes them falling for each other to realize home isn't just a physical place, but also who you're with that makes a home, home.
If the Fates Allow is the perfect wintertime book to cozy up on the couch with a good cup of peppermint tea. After mistakenly sending an email to 33,000 people containing a lewd AI generated image of her boss, Alice is now without a job, and ready to escape Arizona as fast as possible. When she searches for a job off the face of the earth, her search results show a job offering in Tidings- right on the border of Montana and Canada, and only accessible by train. After deliberation, she decides to pack her bags and heads off into the unknown.
As she reaches for her bag from the airport luggage carousel, her and a man reach for the same luggage at the same time. Meet Silas, a doctor returning back to Tidings after having some respite time in the California sun. This is the first of many meetings they have, and it seems like the draw of fate combined with the magic of Tidings keeps bringing them together. Get ready for the slow burn, the building, the anticipation, with a dash of peppermint, Northern Lights, and the sleepiness those who work night shifts truly understand (I do not miss those days AT ALL!). The character development is perfect, I loved all of the people in town, especially Ginger (Can we get her story one day please?!). And Marshmallow. Don't forget Marshmallow. I was waiting for the moose encounter to appear, and I was not disappointed in the scene that ensues. As much as Silas and Alice try not to fall for each other, the inevitable happens. But it takes them falling for each other to realize home isn't just a physical place, but also who you're with that makes a home, home.
December 22, 2024
The way this story started off for Alice had me giggling and I knew then it was going to be a good one. "Nobody comes to Tidings by accident" was definitely written perfectly. After being let go from her job, Alice decided to start over in this small town.
Silas was the dr of this small town. He desperately wanted to get out, some place warmer. You could see how he was loved by everyone.
Watching these two being drawn to each other was written well. It was a faster paced read for me and I was glad we got to see them start as friends and then grow into something more. Even with it being a faster read, none of it felt rushed. I loved all the side characters (Ginger and Patrick 😉) Even though we got the feel of a Hallmark Christmas/winter town...we didn't get the typical "Hallmark ending" and that was appreciated. Everything about this was easy to fall in love with and I'm so glad I got to be a part of the early readers. I'm anxious (excited anxious) to see what happens next from Marysa Stevens
Silas was the dr of this small town. He desperately wanted to get out, some place warmer. You could see how he was loved by everyone.
Watching these two being drawn to each other was written well. It was a faster paced read for me and I was glad we got to see them start as friends and then grow into something more. Even with it being a faster read, none of it felt rushed. I loved all the side characters (Ginger and Patrick 😉) Even though we got the feel of a Hallmark Christmas/winter town...we didn't get the typical "Hallmark ending" and that was appreciated. Everything about this was easy to fall in love with and I'm so glad I got to be a part of the early readers. I'm anxious (excited anxious) to see what happens next from Marysa Stevens
December 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 4 Stars
🌶 - Spice Level
Alice works a typical government job in Arizona, but she accidentally sends an AI NSFW image of her boss to all employees. This gets her canned from her job and viral social media postings. She needs to escape this image and finds a remote posting of a Lodge in Tidings that's almost middle of nowhere. She meets Silas on the train there. Silas is an ER surgeon who took a minor vacation from Tidings to California and is looking for a new job secretly. Tidings is said to have a little fate magic, and these two appear to be fate bringing them together.
Alice intrigues Silas from the start, but he's so busy and runs down from all the nights in the ER that he hardly has time with her. When these two finally get their moment, it was like FINALLY! Alice kept worrying about her tarnished image rubbing off on Silas, but Silas kept playing the dutiful nice guy coming back for more. I enjoyed this little story and even a side character or two.
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: December 10, 2024
🌶 - Spice Level
Alice works a typical government job in Arizona, but she accidentally sends an AI NSFW image of her boss to all employees. This gets her canned from her job and viral social media postings. She needs to escape this image and finds a remote posting of a Lodge in Tidings that's almost middle of nowhere. She meets Silas on the train there. Silas is an ER surgeon who took a minor vacation from Tidings to California and is looking for a new job secretly. Tidings is said to have a little fate magic, and these two appear to be fate bringing them together.
Alice intrigues Silas from the start, but he's so busy and runs down from all the nights in the ER that he hardly has time with her. When these two finally get their moment, it was like FINALLY! Alice kept worrying about her tarnished image rubbing off on Silas, but Silas kept playing the dutiful nice guy coming back for more. I enjoyed this little story and even a side character or two.
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: December 10, 2024
January 2, 2025
Marysa Stevens has woven a truly enchanting tale with If the Fates Allow. The storyline is incredibly giving—rich with emotion, nuance, and a steady undercurrent of tension that, like Alice, kept me waiting for the other shoe to drop. Yet, the beauty of this book lies in its peaceful cadence. It feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day, a story that you savor rather than rush through.
Stevens’ writing shines with vivid imagery, bringing the world and characters to life in a way that feels almost cinematic. Her ability to craft resonant, memorable lines is unparalleled—my favorite being: “Then, like an incompetent seamstress on her first day, I found myself surrounded by the shredded fabric of my life.” This quote will stay with me long after closing the book.
My only critique? I wish there was more! The world and its characters are so comforting and absorbing that leaving them behind feels almost bittersweet. If you’re looking for a gentle, immersive read to curl up with, this is it. If the Fates Allow is a triumph, and I can’t wait to see what Stevens writes next.
Stevens’ writing shines with vivid imagery, bringing the world and characters to life in a way that feels almost cinematic. Her ability to craft resonant, memorable lines is unparalleled—my favorite being: “Then, like an incompetent seamstress on her first day, I found myself surrounded by the shredded fabric of my life.” This quote will stay with me long after closing the book.
My only critique? I wish there was more! The world and its characters are so comforting and absorbing that leaving them behind feels almost bittersweet. If you’re looking for a gentle, immersive read to curl up with, this is it. If the Fates Allow is a triumph, and I can’t wait to see what Stevens writes next.
December 24, 2024
This was a quick and cozy holiday romance. After Alice does something stupid at work and gets herself fired, her boyfriend breaks up with her by serving her with eviction papers. She wants to escape reality and avoid telling her parents about her situation, so she takes a 3-month job in a snowy town called Tidings - about as different from her home in Arizona as she can get.
On her way to Tidings she has a couple of chance encounters with Silas, the town ER doctor. The first half of the book is a slow-burn as they get to know each other and Alice has to come to terms with her own mistakes that brought her to Tidings. The atmosphere is idyllic, snowy small town at Christmas. Things get spicy in the second half of the book while Alice and Silas try to figure out what will happen with their relationship when Alice’s work contract ends.
Overall, cute quick read. Romance isn’t my normal genre but I enjoyed this for the spicy Hallmark Christmas movie vibes.
I was happy to receive an ARC of this book, but all reviews are my own.
On her way to Tidings she has a couple of chance encounters with Silas, the town ER doctor. The first half of the book is a slow-burn as they get to know each other and Alice has to come to terms with her own mistakes that brought her to Tidings. The atmosphere is idyllic, snowy small town at Christmas. Things get spicy in the second half of the book while Alice and Silas try to figure out what will happen with their relationship when Alice’s work contract ends.
Overall, cute quick read. Romance isn’t my normal genre but I enjoyed this for the spicy Hallmark Christmas movie vibes.
I was happy to receive an ARC of this book, but all reviews are my own.
December 23, 2024
I felt childish in a way to believe in Magic again.. cuz that pure and mysterious way life works and bring two people close is just unbelievable.. This book is a magic infused tale, where the FMC Alice and MMC Silias is brought together by fate.. Silias Who's a doctor and really helping minded.. provides for all the people in the town..even though he clearly didn't enjoy his time there.. Alice who's life upside down.. after losing her job then her boyfriend.. she felt hopeless and that Nobody needs her. That's when Alice comes to Tidings and fate brought them together..The chemistry and tension between the two characters are just
impeccable.. there's enough spice to keep you hooked.. I literally fell in love with the book.. 😭✨
Thank you so much to Luna literary and Marysa stevens for the ARC..
impeccable.. there's enough spice to keep you hooked.. I literally fell in love with the book.. 😭✨
Thank you so much to Luna literary and Marysa stevens for the ARC..
December 10, 2024
4.75 ⭐️
1.25🌶
Specs: Dual POV | Pages TBD
I absolutely enjoyed this book from start to finish. Alice was the center of an NSFW email that went out to 30,000 employees and she needed an escape. She stumbles upon Tidings and takes the risk to get some distance. What she quickly learns is that she is more of a rock lizard than a snow leopard. Silas is loved by everyone. He makes sure people are healthy and even checks up on people to ensure they are okay. He, however, dreams of a warmer place to melt the ice from his bones. Silas and Alice grow close and with a little Tidings magic brings them together with an invisible thread. Destined to love each other until the end of time.
I think Ginger owes us some answers!
1.25🌶
Specs: Dual POV | Pages TBD
I absolutely enjoyed this book from start to finish. Alice was the center of an NSFW email that went out to 30,000 employees and she needed an escape. She stumbles upon Tidings and takes the risk to get some distance. What she quickly learns is that she is more of a rock lizard than a snow leopard. Silas is loved by everyone. He makes sure people are healthy and even checks up on people to ensure they are okay. He, however, dreams of a warmer place to melt the ice from his bones. Silas and Alice grow close and with a little Tidings magic brings them together with an invisible thread. Destined to love each other until the end of time.
I think Ginger owes us some answers!
December 31, 2024
“Nobody comes to Tidings by accident.”
I laughed and swooned so hard and I want to move to the fictional town of Tidings like right. now. This book, these characters, the below freezing town and quirky peppermint-loving people (and animals) in it, absolutely captured my heart. It was perfect parts rom, com, and spice.
This is an indie debut for Marysa which is so hard to believe since it was so well written and easy to read. I look forward to much more to come from her!
You all need to add this to your tbr and STRONGLY consider reading it now while you’re in the magical holiday spirit ❄️💕🎄✨
Thank you to Marysa and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read an early copy of this release!
I laughed and swooned so hard and I want to move to the fictional town of Tidings like right. now. This book, these characters, the below freezing town and quirky peppermint-loving people (and animals) in it, absolutely captured my heart. It was perfect parts rom, com, and spice.
This is an indie debut for Marysa which is so hard to believe since it was so well written and easy to read. I look forward to much more to come from her!
You all need to add this to your tbr and STRONGLY consider reading it now while you’re in the magical holiday spirit ❄️💕🎄✨
Thank you to Marysa and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read an early copy of this release!
December 6, 2024
Full disclosure- the author is my wife. I typically don’t read romances, but in order to support her, I took a gander at her story.
The main character’s plight at the onset of the story is one we can all sympathize with, and honestly worry about ourselves doing in the corporate world, by accidentally hitting “reply all.” I also feel the plight of the love interest, with some (…only some…) of his struggles in the world of small town medicine. The setting of Tidings is beautifully developed, yet still steeped with a nebulous sense of magic and mystique. I was captivated from start to finish.
The main character’s plight at the onset of the story is one we can all sympathize with, and honestly worry about ourselves doing in the corporate world, by accidentally hitting “reply all.” I also feel the plight of the love interest, with some (…only some…) of his struggles in the world of small town medicine. The setting of Tidings is beautifully developed, yet still steeped with a nebulous sense of magic and mystique. I was captivated from start to finish.
December 7, 2024
If I could rate this book 11 stars I would I cannot accurately describe how much I loved it. I found the characters to be super relatable, dealing with the issues of starting over and fear of being judged by the past, and the slow burn was burninngggggg!! I loved that they developed as friends before falling in love, and although they didn’t know eachother long, did not “fall in love” after literally 2 days. It felt like more of a realistic time frame . I will recommend this book to everyone I know!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2024
tropes:
- cosmic love
- small town
- winter solstice romance
- open door spice
- she's hiding from a past embarrassment
this was such a perfect rom com/cozy read for the holidays.
i loved how alice was so awkward at times, it was honestly so relatable. it made me laugh out loud a few times too. her personal growth throughout the story was done really well too. the chemistry between her and silas, the mmc was off the charts. also i loved his dog, snof.
thank you marysa stevens and luna literary management for this e-arc to read and review.
- cosmic love
- small town
- winter solstice romance
- open door spice
- she's hiding from a past embarrassment
this was such a perfect rom com/cozy read for the holidays.
i loved how alice was so awkward at times, it was honestly so relatable. it made me laugh out loud a few times too. her personal growth throughout the story was done really well too. the chemistry between her and silas, the mmc was off the charts. also i loved his dog, snof.
thank you marysa stevens and luna literary management for this e-arc to read and review.
December 13, 2024
This is a cozy read that will have you rooting for Alice and Silas from start to finish. And even secondary characters, like Ginger, Dagny, and Silas’s dog Snof, add so much to the story. They’re quirky and lovable in their own ways which makes their adventures in the town of Tidings feel even more magical. Overall, perfect mix of humor, romance, and self-discovery and I’m sure this one will be a go-to holiday read for many
Thank you Luna Literary for the opportunity to honestly review this book
Thank you Luna Literary for the opportunity to honestly review this book
December 26, 2024
I'm not one for cold, like Alice, but get me a ticket to Tidings! I enjoyed reading this story about Alice and Silas. Alice could be anyone, or even me, as she made a mistake and wants to run from it. She is a little self-deprecating (aren't we all?) and she just wants a fresh start. Little did she know that her loathing for the cold and peppermint would take her to the small town of Tidings where she would find not only herself, but her future. Silas was the best person for Alice to meet as he is caring and protective. Heck, even he had somethings going on that made him seem like a genuine person. They were a great match, and I really wish the town, and people, were real!
Thank you for the ARC Luna Literary Management!!
Thank you for the ARC Luna Literary Management!!
December 29, 2024
I was completely enchanted by this book! It was a delightful read, perfectly suited for the cozy ambiance of the holidays. The story flowed effortlessly, making it hard to put down. I was particularly captivated by the serendipitous way Alice and Silas's paths cross. The twist of fate that leads Alice to Tidings—sparked by a drunken phone call after she unexpectedly loses her job—adds a whimsical charm that kept me engaged from start to finish.
❄️Holiday Romance
❄️Small Town Romance
❄️She's Hiding From a Past Embarrassment
❄️Cosmic Love
❄️"Nobody comes to Tidings by accident"
❄️Holiday Romance
❄️Small Town Romance
❄️She's Hiding From a Past Embarrassment
❄️Cosmic Love
❄️"Nobody comes to Tidings by accident"
December 31, 2024
Just the right amount of cheese for a Christmas story! Although the town of Tidings was basically every Christmas town rolled into one and was everything you want out of a festive novel the FMC being a skeptic and second guessing everything kept it original and not a perfect Xmas romcom!
Silas is a beautiful, broody, dark and alluring MC along with his Snofnugg side kick! Ginger was a badass bestie who I really want her story! Along with Pete and Dagny’s story!
Really enjoyed and couldn’t put it down!
Silas is a beautiful, broody, dark and alluring MC along with his Snofnugg side kick! Ginger was a badass bestie who I really want her story! Along with Pete and Dagny’s story!
Really enjoyed and couldn’t put it down!
March 6, 2025
Is it March? Yes. Do I want to go back to Tidings with all of the fun characters in this story? Also,yes. Alice is all of us. Hardworking, underappreciated, and makes mistakes. Hers just happened to go viral after being broadcasted to the whole city. When she escapes away to a tiny snowglobe town to lick her wounds, she finds a man who is drowning in his own battle. I loved all the characters in this book! They were as sweet and warm as the love that burned between the two main characters, Alice and Silas. Can't wait to see what Marysa Stevens comes up with next!
December 13, 2024
After an embarrassing email was sent, Alice finds herself in Tidings. Silas finds himself back in Tidings after being away. Why were they both brought there at the same time?
Can a town be alive? This story has you wondering this all throughout. While this book may have taken me over a week to read, I didn't want to put it down. I loved everything that was going on in this one. From the characters and their interactions, to the different settings.
Can a town be alive? This story has you wondering this all throughout. While this book may have taken me over a week to read, I didn't want to put it down. I loved everything that was going on in this one. From the characters and their interactions, to the different settings.
December 18, 2024
Hardly have I ever gave a book a 5 star though this one deserves 10. This was such an amazing winter wonderland slow burn romance book, I loved every moment reading it (which took longer with working overtime) I laughed a lot, gasped, and looked like a crazy person with my out loud comments and squeals 😂. But it was a cozy perfect spicy Christmas read and I hope to read more books by Marya I absolutely loved this story and the ending was perfect!
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