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Summer in the Snowfall
Longtime wallflower Summer York is suffering some major imposter syndrome. Not only is she leaving Ohio to start a flashy new job as an archivist at Revel Pointe’s legacy library, but she’s also suddenly in an unlikely love triangle. Her high school crush, Grainger McCloskey, and her new boss’ boss, James Reve, are vying for her attention at every turn.
Summer must reconcile her guilt for leaving her provincial life and bereaved father while navigating Revel Pointe politics and the dynamics of her budding workplace romance. James Reve, the brilliant and moody architect behind the Revel library, makes Summer feel beautiful and capable. The more time she spends with him, the more possibilities she can see for herself. But his life is complicated. With the library project in the balance, and a looming Christmas deadline, will James become a beast under pressure? As Summer uncovers Reve family secrets, their future seems doomed. How can Summer possibly keep everyone happy, including herself?
If you like a fairytale retelling, you'll love this contemporary twist on Beauty and the Beast.
Summer must reconcile her guilt for leaving her provincial life and bereaved father while navigating Revel Pointe politics and the dynamics of her budding workplace romance. James Reve, the brilliant and moody architect behind the Revel library, makes Summer feel beautiful and capable. The more time she spends with him, the more possibilities she can see for herself. But his life is complicated. With the library project in the balance, and a looming Christmas deadline, will James become a beast under pressure? As Summer uncovers Reve family secrets, their future seems doomed. How can Summer possibly keep everyone happy, including herself?
If you like a fairytale retelling, you'll love this contemporary twist on Beauty and the Beast.
- GenresRomance
217 pages, ebook
Published October 14, 2025
About the author
A.E. Merriweather
2 books5 followersA.E. Merriweather is a pseudonym that represents three writers and friends based in New Orleans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Did Not Finish
September 22, 2025dnf - I can't do this no more 😭
July 10, 2025
It's a tried and true concept to showcase fairytales in a new light, but A.E. Merriweather proves they can still be done in 2025 in unique and brilliant ways. I was bracing myself for a cheesy re-telling of Beauty & the Beast and was happily surprised with how different and well thought out this tale turned out to be! The cover really drew me in, the colors were just holiday enough without being overt and I loved how the title even wound itself into one of the pages. I will be reading more of this author in the future!
Summer's inner monologue was one of my favorite parts of this book, she was refreshingly witty, hilarious and truly relatable. She wasn't written as a pretty woman who pretends she's not pretty, she truly was an ugly duckling that became a bit of a swan and absolutely no clue because she doesn't know any different. That aspect was so unique and well done.
Some notes that would've made this read a five star:
- I went into this knowing full well it was a sequel but the background from the first book, outside of the prologue wasn't great. There's mention of Ethan cleaning up his life but would've loved more than a one sentence paragraph on it. Now that I've read the book I get the picture better but a little more context as to why James/Summer aren't close with Ethan/Marin would've been helpful as I still don't totally get it.
- This is super minor but when some character names are too similar it gets confusing at the beginning, that was the case for HR Jacob and then MMC James. I think changing Jacob's name to not start with 'j' would've helped.
- Another minor note but on page 26, James' mother is introduced as Tilda and as someone who hadn't read the first book in this series, it wasn't until the next page that she was clearly labeled as mother, her behavior had me thinking step-mother? So clarity there from the get go would've been great.
- James couldn't seem to make up his mind on page 33 whether or not he wanted a partner or not. At first he says 'the only thing missing is a beautiful woman by my side' (which doesn't totally seem accurate since James doesn't seem like the kind to only care about beauty? I was thinking more like a remarkable woman maybe? or equal partner at my side?) and then in the next paragraph says that "A life without love is a less complicated one". Just seemed a little flip floppy there.
- James wasn't my favorite but he was written well, just not as likable as Summer. I would've loved a little more depth in regards to his icy exterior taking more time to thaw to Summer and experiencing that demanding boss she was warned about. I also didn't love how he never seemed to see how his feelings for Summer might've translated to her reputation as an archivist because of his clear favoritism. I wish she had called him out on it and he learned from that to be more thoughtful towards others and that been a lesson on selfishness for him. I also think his attempts to earn her forgiveness could've been better, they lacked a bit of luster at the end. I was like that's it? One news article and all is well? I would've loved her to rebuff him and he made a month of showing her how much he cared or something to really show he learned from his mistakes.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to more by this author! Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Summer's inner monologue was one of my favorite parts of this book, she was refreshingly witty, hilarious and truly relatable. She wasn't written as a pretty woman who pretends she's not pretty, she truly was an ugly duckling that became a bit of a swan and absolutely no clue because she doesn't know any different. That aspect was so unique and well done.
Some notes that would've made this read a five star:
- I went into this knowing full well it was a sequel but the background from the first book, outside of the prologue wasn't great. There's mention of Ethan cleaning up his life but would've loved more than a one sentence paragraph on it. Now that I've read the book I get the picture better but a little more context as to why James/Summer aren't close with Ethan/Marin would've been helpful as I still don't totally get it.
- This is super minor but when some character names are too similar it gets confusing at the beginning, that was the case for HR Jacob and then MMC James. I think changing Jacob's name to not start with 'j' would've helped.
- Another minor note but on page 26, James' mother is introduced as Tilda and as someone who hadn't read the first book in this series, it wasn't until the next page that she was clearly labeled as mother, her behavior had me thinking step-mother? So clarity there from the get go would've been great.
- James couldn't seem to make up his mind on page 33 whether or not he wanted a partner or not. At first he says 'the only thing missing is a beautiful woman by my side' (which doesn't totally seem accurate since James doesn't seem like the kind to only care about beauty? I was thinking more like a remarkable woman maybe? or equal partner at my side?) and then in the next paragraph says that "A life without love is a less complicated one". Just seemed a little flip floppy there.
- James wasn't my favorite but he was written well, just not as likable as Summer. I would've loved a little more depth in regards to his icy exterior taking more time to thaw to Summer and experiencing that demanding boss she was warned about. I also didn't love how he never seemed to see how his feelings for Summer might've translated to her reputation as an archivist because of his clear favoritism. I wish she had called him out on it and he learned from that to be more thoughtful towards others and that been a lesson on selfishness for him. I also think his attempts to earn her forgiveness could've been better, they lacked a bit of luster at the end. I was like that's it? One news article and all is well? I would've loved her to rebuff him and he made a month of showing her how much he cared or something to really show he learned from his mistakes.
Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to more by this author! Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
September 21, 2025
ARC REVIEW *Thank you to A.E. Merriweather and Spoonbill Publishing for an e-copy in exchange for a honest review.*
I enjoyed reading this sweet Christmas romance. Although I have not read the first book, I found it was easy to understand the context and the Reve's family dynamics. I liked the Christmas setting, James and Summer's chemistry, as well as Summer's relationship with her dad.
I would say that I missed a bit of banter or slow burn romance to give it a five-star review but it is just because that's what I prefer.
You will definitly enjoy this book, if you like these tropes:
🎄Christmas setting
💞Love triangle
💗Love at first sight
💼Office romance
🌶️A little bit a spice
I enjoyed reading this sweet Christmas romance. Although I have not read the first book, I found it was easy to understand the context and the Reve's family dynamics. I liked the Christmas setting, James and Summer's chemistry, as well as Summer's relationship with her dad.
I would say that I missed a bit of banter or slow burn romance to give it a five-star review but it is just because that's what I prefer.
You will definitly enjoy this book, if you like these tropes:
🎄Christmas setting
💞Love triangle
💗Love at first sight
💼Office romance
🌶️A little bit a spice
November 5, 2025
Summer in the Snowfall is an absolutely delightful reimagining of Beauty and the Beast. I adored Summer as a character - you’re rooting for her the whole time. James is of course the stoic, standoffish leading man whose hard shell is cracked by Summer in a fun, entertaining read. It’s cozy. It’s cute. It’s charismatic.
August 1, 2025
ARC REVIEW!!!
Rounding up to 4 stars
Much like Marin in the Moonlight, Summer in the Snowfall delivered a fast paced, well written, fun read. I ate this up and finished it in about 3 days (which is quick for me!!)
What to Expect
- Grief (death of a parent)
- Instant attraction
- He’s her boss’s boss
- Middle School Librarian x Playboy Architect
- Love Triangle
- 2.5/5 spice
- HEA
What I Liked
As a clevelander, I thought all the ohio and cleveland mentions were a fun touch. I loved the MMC’s sense of humor. His dry humor and timing was so good and was much like my own sense of humor. I enjoyed that the MC’s had a bit more back stories and felt like real people.This time around, the story felt more relatable, while still having those fairytale elements like the first book. There was more “spice” in this book than the previous, I found that it was well written and fit well within the story. It fit the plot, and showed how well the MC fit together without being overtly cheesy like some instant attraction tropes can be. Again, grief was handled well in the story and felt very real. Worrying about your parents during the holidays, missing your loved ones more, and putting your own life on the back burner to take care of your surviving parent, all made the FMC relatable. Also, a moment for dad in this book!! I loved him so much. The fashion show in the hotel room had me GIDDY. We love a supportive girl dad!!
What I Disliked
Both subplots felt more like an after thought. The love triangle plot, for me, could have been so much more. I wish that this could have been explored more, if only to make the FMC battle internally about the choices, or make it more suspenseful on which one she will choose. Additionally, the big secret felt brushed under the rug. While it was revealed before the end of the story, and explained in the end, for the MC’s it caused a major issue yet was barely discussed. Much like Marin in the Moonlight, I wanted just a little bit more from each chapter, and the subplots.
Other Notes
Ultimately, I really enjoyed this! Each book that the authors put out seems to be better and better. I appreciated that this story felt less cheesy and more real life, while again, still having those fun, cheesy romance book elements. I look forward to continuing the Reve story with book three!
Follow me on Instagram (@Mellymadegoodies) and Tik Tok (@melly.made.goodies)
Rounding up to 4 stars
Much like Marin in the Moonlight, Summer in the Snowfall delivered a fast paced, well written, fun read. I ate this up and finished it in about 3 days (which is quick for me!!)
What to Expect
- Grief (death of a parent)
- Instant attraction
- He’s her boss’s boss
- Middle School Librarian x Playboy Architect
- Love Triangle
- 2.5/5 spice
- HEA
What I Liked
As a clevelander, I thought all the ohio and cleveland mentions were a fun touch. I loved the MMC’s sense of humor. His dry humor and timing was so good and was much like my own sense of humor. I enjoyed that the MC’s had a bit more back stories and felt like real people.This time around, the story felt more relatable, while still having those fairytale elements like the first book. There was more “spice” in this book than the previous, I found that it was well written and fit well within the story. It fit the plot, and showed how well the MC fit together without being overtly cheesy like some instant attraction tropes can be. Again, grief was handled well in the story and felt very real. Worrying about your parents during the holidays, missing your loved ones more, and putting your own life on the back burner to take care of your surviving parent, all made the FMC relatable. Also, a moment for dad in this book!! I loved him so much. The fashion show in the hotel room had me GIDDY. We love a supportive girl dad!!
What I Disliked
Both subplots felt more like an after thought. The love triangle plot, for me, could have been so much more. I wish that this could have been explored more, if only to make the FMC battle internally about the choices, or make it more suspenseful on which one she will choose. Additionally, the big secret felt brushed under the rug. While it was revealed before the end of the story, and explained in the end, for the MC’s it caused a major issue yet was barely discussed. Much like Marin in the Moonlight, I wanted just a little bit more from each chapter, and the subplots.
Other Notes
Ultimately, I really enjoyed this! Each book that the authors put out seems to be better and better. I appreciated that this story felt less cheesy and more real life, while again, still having those fun, cheesy romance book elements. I look forward to continuing the Reve story with book three!
Follow me on Instagram (@Mellymadegoodies) and Tik Tok (@melly.made.goodies)
January 2, 2026
This was the perfect holiday read. The niche Ohio and Louisiana references warmed my icy heart, and the rich world-building made me pine for this theme park. The chaotic family drama, spicy office romance, and Bridgerton-esque gossip columns had me on the edge of my seat. The Revel Pointe books are fun, funny, and full of character.
July 3, 2025
This was a very cute romance where the FMC and MMC’s dialogue and banter made me smile and giggle. I loved their instant chemistry and how Summer brought out the best parts of James. It was really sweet. And normally I’m not a huge love triangle person but in the beginning I couldn’t totally decide which love interest I liked better… Really good writing. They both seemed sweet to me.
The only thing I didn’t like how the MMC handles certain situations but in all honesty the way the story ended was very sweet and it made me all happy and giddy inside. And reading a Christmas themed romance in July?! My goodness yes!
Thank you so much to Spoonbill Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The only thing I didn’t like how the MMC handles certain situations but in all honesty the way the story ended was very sweet and it made me all happy and giddy inside. And reading a Christmas themed romance in July?! My goodness yes!
Thank you so much to Spoonbill Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2025
A beautifully written tale of finding love in the strangest of places ... row eleven on an airplane. Then reality takes a big bite out the budding romance. In this second installment of the Revel Pointe series; it's Jame's turn to find love. Never one to show his true emotions or feelings, he is known as The Statue. Then he unexpectedly meets an intriguing young woman, Summer York, on a commercial flight back to New Orleans; when his private jet gets grounded due to a fractured blade. Thus begins James and Summer's tale of finding each other and maybe their happily ever after? Or not, when a jilted suitor decides to get revenge on Summer.
January 2, 2026
Perfect winter vacation read … I loved the Louisiana setting and sweet Ohio main character - made me nostalgic and cozy!
August 6, 2025
*Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC e-copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review.*
“Summer in the Snowfall” follows Summer York as she ventures into a new job in Rebel Pointe’s Revel Library. Working closely with James Reve, the library’s architect, Summer must decide if leaving behind her family and high school crush is worth it to work with—and maybe fall in love with?—a broody, brilliant man.
Sadly, I DNF’d this book about 40% in. To be frank, I was bored. There wasn’t much that engaged me in either character’s life, and I simply didn’t connect to it. I think if you’re looking for a quick, easy, Christmastime read in a few months, this could be perfect. Unfortunately, it lacked the depth I look for in what I read.
“Summer in the Snowfall” follows Summer York as she ventures into a new job in Rebel Pointe’s Revel Library. Working closely with James Reve, the library’s architect, Summer must decide if leaving behind her family and high school crush is worth it to work with—and maybe fall in love with?—a broody, brilliant man.
Sadly, I DNF’d this book about 40% in. To be frank, I was bored. There wasn’t much that engaged me in either character’s life, and I simply didn’t connect to it. I think if you’re looking for a quick, easy, Christmastime read in a few months, this could be perfect. Unfortunately, it lacked the depth I look for in what I read.
July 14, 2025
Summer in the snowfall is the ultimate comfort read, feeling like a hug in the middle of a snowy day. Pun inteded.
Summer is a midwestern belle thar is growing tired of her middle school librarian job, having applied for a job at Revel Pointe (A.E. Merriweather version of Disneyland), she finds serendipity, and a way out of her grief, in the multilayered British-accented, but very American, boss.
I was pleasantly impressed by the writing. I positively couldn’t put the book down, no matter the absolute lack of “what-if”; it is a fairy tale retelling after all. I didn’t even know the book was intended to be a retelling (that’s why I’m not telling which story is here), yet I finished it in 2 days. The British vernacular James sometimes falls into, together with his “pot meet kettle” and Cricket and Lucien reference, found me giggling. Really, because of the subtlety. All together with the realistic but somewhat funny midwestern impossibility of being rude to summer’s dad.
This is what I wish a similar series about “Disneyland Billionaires” hoped could be, minus the beauty of the diverse cast of characters that was altogether lacking. However, the shorter length of the smut made it just so it works for the book, and it isn’t the book, and James surprised me positively as a “book boyfriend". I might be the only one, but when the FMC shares, she feels uncomfortable, especially after intimacy. I loved that he hugged her and helped her without a second thought.
I suggest picking up this book for any good friend who needs a day (or a year) off.
I was kindly given this ARC through Netgallery without any implication to write a review at all.
Summer is a midwestern belle thar is growing tired of her middle school librarian job, having applied for a job at Revel Pointe (A.E. Merriweather version of Disneyland), she finds serendipity, and a way out of her grief, in the multilayered British-accented, but very American, boss.
I was pleasantly impressed by the writing. I positively couldn’t put the book down, no matter the absolute lack of “what-if”; it is a fairy tale retelling after all. I didn’t even know the book was intended to be a retelling (that’s why I’m not telling which story is here), yet I finished it in 2 days. The British vernacular James sometimes falls into, together with his “pot meet kettle” and Cricket and Lucien reference, found me giggling. Really, because of the subtlety. All together with the realistic but somewhat funny midwestern impossibility of being rude to summer’s dad.
This is what I wish a similar series about “Disneyland Billionaires” hoped could be, minus the beauty of the diverse cast of characters that was altogether lacking. However, the shorter length of the smut made it just so it works for the book, and it isn’t the book, and James surprised me positively as a “book boyfriend". I might be the only one, but when the FMC shares, she feels uncomfortable, especially after intimacy. I loved that he hugged her and helped her without a second thought.
I suggest picking up this book for any good friend who needs a day (or a year) off.
I was kindly given this ARC through Netgallery without any implication to write a review at all.
September 19, 2025
I quite enjoyed this one. It was cute, it kept my attention, and I would recommend this story to others.
Read
July 2, 2025Summer York ha regresado a su ciudad natal en Ohio para cuidar de su padre viudo, resignada a una vida tranquila como bibliotecaria escolar. Pero su mundo da un giro inesperado cuando, en medio de una tormenta, su antiguo crush de adolescencia, Grainger McCloskey, reaparece, rescatándola literalmente bajo la lluvia. Pronto, entre cenas familiares, partidas de póker y árboles de Navidad, parece que su historia podría convertirse en un cliché romántico... hasta que llega un correo inesperado.
Revel Pointe, el legendario parque temático en Luisiana, le ofrece una entrevista para un puesto temporal como archivista en su nueva biblioteca, un proyecto grandioso liderado por el enigmático arquitecto James Reve. Movida por el deseo de romper con su rutina y revivir sus sueños, Summer acepta el desafío y se embarca en una aventura que la lleva mucho más lejos de lo que jamás imaginó.
-
No entendí por qué el papá quería que Summer saliera con Grainger sí o sí.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
Revel Pointe, el legendario parque temático en Luisiana, le ofrece una entrevista para un puesto temporal como archivista en su nueva biblioteca, un proyecto grandioso liderado por el enigmático arquitecto James Reve. Movida por el deseo de romper con su rutina y revivir sus sueños, Summer acepta el desafío y se embarca en una aventura que la lleva mucho más lejos de lo que jamás imaginó.
-
No entendí por qué el papá quería que Summer saliera con Grainger sí o sí.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest
October 13, 2025
Admittedly, this was the second book in the series and I hadn’t read the first, but I am so bored.
I made it to 35% in and I do not care what happens to these people.
I also question whether the author was writing with a thesaurus on standby, the way the characters talked did not seem natural.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley.
I made it to 35% in and I do not care what happens to these people.
I also question whether the author was writing with a thesaurus on standby, the way the characters talked did not seem natural.
This was an ARC provided by NetGalley.
July 31, 2025
I read this as an arc through NetGalley
A light read set in Louisiana at a place that is meant to sound like Walt Disney World about the grandson to a family-run company that sounds like The Walt Disney Co. Basically a famed movie studio has a theme park and is looking to create a walk through archive experience at said theme park, with artifacts and images from their famous films and while the grandson appreciate the history he truly wants no par of the business.
There is lots of playful banter between our two main characters; James and Summer though their meet-cute was a tad bit cringey to me (and so unrealistic) my introvert self could seriously never!! I am happy I stuck through and read the story because their interactions get better with every chapter!
A rom-com fiction with a few mildly spicy scenes. I say heat up a hot chocolate, snuggle under a blanket and enjoy!
Note: I read this not knowing it was the 2nd in a series. This book reads as a stand alone and while I did not feel like I was missing anything, I do think I’ll go back and read the first just out of curiosity.
A light read set in Louisiana at a place that is meant to sound like Walt Disney World about the grandson to a family-run company that sounds like The Walt Disney Co. Basically a famed movie studio has a theme park and is looking to create a walk through archive experience at said theme park, with artifacts and images from their famous films and while the grandson appreciate the history he truly wants no par of the business.
There is lots of playful banter between our two main characters; James and Summer though their meet-cute was a tad bit cringey to me (and so unrealistic) my introvert self could seriously never!! I am happy I stuck through and read the story because their interactions get better with every chapter!
A rom-com fiction with a few mildly spicy scenes. I say heat up a hot chocolate, snuggle under a blanket and enjoy!
Note: I read this not knowing it was the 2nd in a series. This book reads as a stand alone and while I did not feel like I was missing anything, I do think I’ll go back and read the first just out of curiosity.
September 2, 2025
I love these characters! (I wrote this book, so I’m biased.)
November 25, 2025
i want to thank netgalley for letting me read summer in the snowfall by a.e. merriweather in advance, a book that, even though it’s the second in the revel pointe series, can easily be read as a standalone. the story takes us to a winter theme park in the heart of louisiana, the grand revel library, and blends romance, emotional tension and a modern retelling of beauty and the beast.
some of the main tropes include: beauty and the beast retelling, love triangle, workplace romance, grumpy/sunshine, holiday/winter setting, slow-burn romance, love at first sight and billionaire romance.
the plot follows summer york, a young archivist from ohio who decides to leave her quiet life and her grieving father to move to revel pointe and work at the new library. during her journey, an unexpected event leads her to meet james reve, her new boss and the library’s architect, without knowing who he is at first. the chemistry between them is instant, but summer also finds herself involved with grainger mccloskey, her old high school crush, creating a love triangle that adds tension and doubts. the story mixes attraction, working closely together, family drama and a path of self-discovery for summer.
summer is a well-built character: shy, with strong imposter syndrome, but also smart, resilient and able to assert her own worth. her personal growth is the heart of the story, and her kindness and determination bring out james’s most human and vulnerable side. james reve, for his part, is dark, brilliant and initially distant, with a hidden tender side that summer manages to reveal. some moments of his journey may feel rushed or predictable, but his obsession with summer and the way he protects and supports her make their bond believable.
their relationship develops through witty banter and effective dialogue, but also moments of shared vulnerability. the chemistry between summer and james is immediate and intense and the intimate scenes are handled delicately without ever being excessive. despite workplace issues and the complications of the love triangle, their relationship feels authentic and well-built, with summer able to break down james’s barriers naturally.
a.e. merriweather’s writing balances introspection and lighter moments, creating an enjoyable and engaging read. the pace is sometimes slow, and some passages about work or the love triangle can weigh on the narrative, but the prose remains clear and well-constructed. some dialogues can be slightly too formal at times, but overall the style conveys emotion and makes it easy to connect with the characters.
overall, summer in the snowfall is a grumpy/sunshine romance that works both as a love story and as a story of personal growth. the book’s strength lies in the chemistry between the characters and the author’s ability to make emotions feel real, even if the pacing and some love triangle dynamics may not convince everyone
some of the main tropes include: beauty and the beast retelling, love triangle, workplace romance, grumpy/sunshine, holiday/winter setting, slow-burn romance, love at first sight and billionaire romance.
the plot follows summer york, a young archivist from ohio who decides to leave her quiet life and her grieving father to move to revel pointe and work at the new library. during her journey, an unexpected event leads her to meet james reve, her new boss and the library’s architect, without knowing who he is at first. the chemistry between them is instant, but summer also finds herself involved with grainger mccloskey, her old high school crush, creating a love triangle that adds tension and doubts. the story mixes attraction, working closely together, family drama and a path of self-discovery for summer.
summer is a well-built character: shy, with strong imposter syndrome, but also smart, resilient and able to assert her own worth. her personal growth is the heart of the story, and her kindness and determination bring out james’s most human and vulnerable side. james reve, for his part, is dark, brilliant and initially distant, with a hidden tender side that summer manages to reveal. some moments of his journey may feel rushed or predictable, but his obsession with summer and the way he protects and supports her make their bond believable.
their relationship develops through witty banter and effective dialogue, but also moments of shared vulnerability. the chemistry between summer and james is immediate and intense and the intimate scenes are handled delicately without ever being excessive. despite workplace issues and the complications of the love triangle, their relationship feels authentic and well-built, with summer able to break down james’s barriers naturally.
a.e. merriweather’s writing balances introspection and lighter moments, creating an enjoyable and engaging read. the pace is sometimes slow, and some passages about work or the love triangle can weigh on the narrative, but the prose remains clear and well-constructed. some dialogues can be slightly too formal at times, but overall the style conveys emotion and makes it easy to connect with the characters.
overall, summer in the snowfall is a grumpy/sunshine romance that works both as a love story and as a story of personal growth. the book’s strength lies in the chemistry between the characters and the author’s ability to make emotions feel real, even if the pacing and some love triangle dynamics may not convince everyone
December 7, 2025
📚Summer in the Snowfall
✍🏻A.E Merriweather
Blurb:
Longtime wallflower Summer York is suffering some major imposter syndrome. Not only is she leaving Ohio to start a flashy new job as an archivist at Revel Pointe’s legacy library, but she’s also suddenly in an unlikely love triangle. Her high school crush, Grainger McCloskey, and her new boss’ boss, James Reve, are vying for her attention at every turn.
Summer must reconcile her guilt for leaving her provincial life and bereaved father while navigating Revel Pointe politics and the dynamics of her budding workplace romance. James Reve, the brilliant and moody architect behind the Revel library, makes Summer feel beautiful and capable. The more time she spends with him, the more possibilities she can see for herself. But his life is complicated. With the library project in the balance, and a looming Christmas deadline, will James become a beast under pressure? As Summer uncovers Reve family secrets, their future seems doomed. How can Summer possibly keep everyone happy, including herself?
If you like a fairytale retelling, you'll love this contemporary twist on Beauty and the Beast.
My Thoughts:
An interesting retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Summer begins working at Revel Pointe (Disney World in the Louisiana swamp) as an archivist, only to discover the guy she connected with strongly on the flight down is none other than James Reve the owner of Revel Point! But Summer has Grainger at home ready to sweep her off her feet. We know Beauty always chooses the beast.
Fun story, but I didn’t love it. Beauty had health issues. James could have been more developed. In fact, I don’t think we ever learned what caused his scar and chipped tooth This is book 2 in a series, so more information may come later.
If you love Disney and modern day retellings of classics, this book is for you!
Thanks NetGalley, Spoonbill Publishing and Author A.E. Merriweather for the advanced copy of "Summer in the Snowfall" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SpoonbillPublishing
#SummerintheSnowfall
#A.E.Merriweather
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻A.E Merriweather
Blurb:
Longtime wallflower Summer York is suffering some major imposter syndrome. Not only is she leaving Ohio to start a flashy new job as an archivist at Revel Pointe’s legacy library, but she’s also suddenly in an unlikely love triangle. Her high school crush, Grainger McCloskey, and her new boss’ boss, James Reve, are vying for her attention at every turn.
Summer must reconcile her guilt for leaving her provincial life and bereaved father while navigating Revel Pointe politics and the dynamics of her budding workplace romance. James Reve, the brilliant and moody architect behind the Revel library, makes Summer feel beautiful and capable. The more time she spends with him, the more possibilities she can see for herself. But his life is complicated. With the library project in the balance, and a looming Christmas deadline, will James become a beast under pressure? As Summer uncovers Reve family secrets, their future seems doomed. How can Summer possibly keep everyone happy, including herself?
If you like a fairytale retelling, you'll love this contemporary twist on Beauty and the Beast.
My Thoughts:
An interesting retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Summer begins working at Revel Pointe (Disney World in the Louisiana swamp) as an archivist, only to discover the guy she connected with strongly on the flight down is none other than James Reve the owner of Revel Point! But Summer has Grainger at home ready to sweep her off her feet. We know Beauty always chooses the beast.
Fun story, but I didn’t love it. Beauty had health issues. James could have been more developed. In fact, I don’t think we ever learned what caused his scar and chipped tooth This is book 2 in a series, so more information may come later.
If you love Disney and modern day retellings of classics, this book is for you!
Thanks NetGalley, Spoonbill Publishing and Author A.E. Merriweather for the advanced copy of "Summer in the Snowfall" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SpoonbillPublishing
#SummerintheSnowfall
#A.E.Merriweather
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 12, 2026
I expected a different kind of story when I read the blurb. The premise seemed to suggest a story focused on the female lead's growth curve as she figured out her life and has to make tough decisions about her career and relationship as she faces discovers secrets that could change the course of her life. Instead, we have here a tried and tested fairy tale with all the usual tropes: sweet, innocent girl is suddenly being pursued by more than one man, attraction/love at first sight between a small town girl and a millionaire, quick closeness and intimacy, an easily avoidable misunderstanding, and things working out. It was like watching a Hallmark movie. It's the same old cliche stories, but you watch them anyway for the comfort of a happy ending.
I was a little disappointed, but that's because I expected a different kind of story. But I can't resist any book with references to books/libraries. It's even more appealing if it's female-centric and the FMC—preferably someone who doesn't have it all figured out in the beginning—gets to do what she loves and create a beautiful life for herself. Summer, the FMC, and her family are likeable characters, but not necessarily memorable. According to the blurb, the secret Summer discovers "might doom their future and make it difficult for her to keep everyone happy," but that wasn't how it was handled in the book. I also expected Summer to have a stronger role...perhaps contribute remarkably at her job and hold her own, but it turned out to be a things-magically-turn-around kind of fairy tale. James, the male lead seemed to be an entirely different character in the first few pages and instantly becomes a vulnerable, sensitive guy the moment he meets Summer...(I don't know if the change might have seemed less abrupt and more believable if I'd read the previous book in the series). Although this isn't the first Revel Pointe (think Disneyland) book, the book reads well as a standalone. Not my cup of tea, but you might feel differently.
I thank Netgalley and the publishers for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was a little disappointed, but that's because I expected a different kind of story. But I can't resist any book with references to books/libraries. It's even more appealing if it's female-centric and the FMC—preferably someone who doesn't have it all figured out in the beginning—gets to do what she loves and create a beautiful life for herself. Summer, the FMC, and her family are likeable characters, but not necessarily memorable. According to the blurb, the secret Summer discovers "might doom their future and make it difficult for her to keep everyone happy," but that wasn't how it was handled in the book. I also expected Summer to have a stronger role...perhaps contribute remarkably at her job and hold her own, but it turned out to be a things-magically-turn-around kind of fairy tale. James, the male lead seemed to be an entirely different character in the first few pages and instantly becomes a vulnerable, sensitive guy the moment he meets Summer...(I don't know if the change might have seemed less abrupt and more believable if I'd read the previous book in the series). Although this isn't the first Revel Pointe (think Disneyland) book, the book reads well as a standalone. Not my cup of tea, but you might feel differently.
I thank Netgalley and the publishers for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2025
Summer is an elementary school librarian who dreams going to England for the Bodleian library at Oxford and graduate in the trainee program. But life has been at a standstill for Summer since she’s moved back home with her dad to take care of him and keep him company during the holidays, she knows it’s hard on him since her mom passed unexpectedly two years ago. Summer starts to feel stuck and wants more for her life so she decided a few weeks ago to apply for an archivist position at the Revel Point theme park. So Summer has to navigate her uncertainty with her future, reluctance to leave her father and then an unexpected love triangle.
This book is an Beauty and the beast retelling, with a shy, soft spoken girl, the grumpy emotionally complicated but handsome boss, and of course the overbearing and super cocky former crush that won’t take no for an answer. This book was a great read, I couldn’t put it down. I loved to see Summer and James relationship grow throughout out the book. With their super adorable meet-cute and instant chemistry. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that needs a swoon worthy read.
Now it does have some spicy scenes with explicit content, I personally just skip those parts and you don’t lose any of the plot because it’s so well written but just a heads up if you’re going to read this book.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for sending me this arc in exchange for an honest review I really enjoyed the book.
This book is an Beauty and the beast retelling, with a shy, soft spoken girl, the grumpy emotionally complicated but handsome boss, and of course the overbearing and super cocky former crush that won’t take no for an answer. This book was a great read, I couldn’t put it down. I loved to see Summer and James relationship grow throughout out the book. With their super adorable meet-cute and instant chemistry. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone that needs a swoon worthy read.
Now it does have some spicy scenes with explicit content, I personally just skip those parts and you don’t lose any of the plot because it’s so well written but just a heads up if you’re going to read this book.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for sending me this arc in exchange for an honest review I really enjoyed the book.
August 1, 2025
time of dnf: 78%
i am the sunk cost fallacy’s worst nightmare because i am in fact putting an end to this here and feel it is as good as any time to do so!!!
i almost forced myself to finish this book purely so I could accurately complain about all the ways it let me down (and it’s an ARC) but truthfully all that needs to be said is that the writing left a lot to be desired and I hoped the central conflict or the chemistry between Summer & James would be compelling enough but it all seemed to just fall very flat, which was disappointing because I do think theres a vaguely romantic story here, unfortunately this book doesn’t seem interested in relaying it
that being said i randomly found grainger to be hilarious as a foil/OM character so lowkey extra star for the times I laughed at the absurdity of his character
i did however despise all the obvious [redacted] parallels and did not really find them compelling, considering how much time went into explaining & making sure it was slightly distinguishable from the real deal, which felt wholly unnecessary imo but possibly could be related to book 1 which i don’t have an interest in reading tbh
thank you so much to netgalley and spoonbill publishing for this arc to review nonetheless!
i am the sunk cost fallacy’s worst nightmare because i am in fact putting an end to this here and feel it is as good as any time to do so!!!
i almost forced myself to finish this book purely so I could accurately complain about all the ways it let me down (and it’s an ARC) but truthfully all that needs to be said is that the writing left a lot to be desired and I hoped the central conflict or the chemistry between Summer & James would be compelling enough but it all seemed to just fall very flat, which was disappointing because I do think theres a vaguely romantic story here, unfortunately this book doesn’t seem interested in relaying it
that being said i randomly found grainger to be hilarious as a foil/OM character so lowkey extra star for the times I laughed at the absurdity of his character
i did however despise all the obvious [redacted] parallels and did not really find them compelling, considering how much time went into explaining & making sure it was slightly distinguishable from the real deal, which felt wholly unnecessary imo but possibly could be related to book 1 which i don’t have an interest in reading tbh
thank you so much to netgalley and spoonbill publishing for this arc to review nonetheless!
July 30, 2025
Summer in the Snowfall is a enjoyable winter romance telling the story of Summer York and James Reve as they work together on the Revel Library. There were a lot of nice twists throughout the story that kept me engaged. I also felt that this book was a big improvement from my feelings on Marin in the Moonlight (which I read previously to prepare). I could see large improvements in writing style and both main characters were very likeable for me. Additionally, I was happy to see that unlikeable characters were conveyed well and made the story more dramatic and enjoyable. I was squeeing with anticipation at some parts.
I did not find anything that I disliked in this book. If you are deterred by any issues in the first book of this series, I would recommend reading Summer in the Snowfall as a standalone. There are many improvements, and I think that is enough for me to award this book 4 stars. I found that while I have no complaints, some of the drama was a bit predictable but was still pleasantly conveyed.
Happy reading!
**I received an ARC for this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 19, 2025
Summer In The Snowfall by A. E. Merriweather is a beautifully written, heartwarming romance that kept me completely engaged. Summer is vibrant, resilient, and full of charm, while Grainger is thoughtful, protective, and deeply genuine. Their chemistry is electric, filled with playful banter, heartfelt moments, and undeniable tension that makes every scene spark. I loved how Merriweather balances emotional depth with lighthearted moments, creating a story that feels both real and magical. The snowy setting adds a cozy, enchanting backdrop that perfectly complements their romance. Supporting characters and small adventures add richness, making the story feel full and alive. Merriweather’s prose is smooth, immersive, and full of warmth, making it easy to get lost in Summer and Grainger’s journey. Summer In The Snowfall is a touching, delightful romance that left me smiling and swooning the entire way through.
- Vanesa Gjolaj, Author Of “The Enchanted Manuscript”
- Vanesa Gjolaj, Author Of “The Enchanted Manuscript”
December 14, 2025
Summer in the Snowfall is a cozy, atmospheric read, but the romance felt a little too insta lovey for my taste.
The winter setting is lovely and definitely the highlight of the book. The small town vibes, snow filled scenery, and overall cozy atmosphere make this an easy and comforting read. The writing is okay, nothing out of this world, but not bad either. It flows well and fits the overall calm tone of the story.
However, the romance moved very quickly, and I struggled to understand the emotional connection between the characters. It often felt like “I’m attracted to you, but I don’t really know why,” which made it hard for me to fully invest in their relationship. I wanted more buildup, more meaningful interactions, and a clearer emotional foundation before the feelings escalated.
Overall, this is a pleasant read if you enjoy fast, cozy romances and strong seasonal vibes. It just leaned too heavily into insta love for me to really connect with it.
The winter setting is lovely and definitely the highlight of the book. The small town vibes, snow filled scenery, and overall cozy atmosphere make this an easy and comforting read. The writing is okay, nothing out of this world, but not bad either. It flows well and fits the overall calm tone of the story.
However, the romance moved very quickly, and I struggled to understand the emotional connection between the characters. It often felt like “I’m attracted to you, but I don’t really know why,” which made it hard for me to fully invest in their relationship. I wanted more buildup, more meaningful interactions, and a clearer emotional foundation before the feelings escalated.
Overall, this is a pleasant read if you enjoy fast, cozy romances and strong seasonal vibes. It just leaned too heavily into insta love for me to really connect with it.
October 9, 2025
This book was such a lovely surprise for me! This was my first read by this author trio of A.E. Merriweather, and I simply loved it. I will immediately download the first book of this series and eagerly await the next one.
I received this e-ARC from NetGalley in advance of the publish date on Oct 14, 2025, and it was such an easy read. I was immediately pulled into the story and characters. The plot line was highly developed with excellent pacing and the MCs were so easy to root for. The accompanying cast of characters are a perfect set-up for the interconnected standalones in this series. I can't wait to read them all!
If you like a touch of whimsy with your contemporary romance, as well as well developed settings for the plotline, please grab this book! 4.25 * for me, 1 chili pepper for spice. Recommend!
I received this e-ARC from NetGalley in advance of the publish date on Oct 14, 2025, and it was such an easy read. I was immediately pulled into the story and characters. The plot line was highly developed with excellent pacing and the MCs were so easy to root for. The accompanying cast of characters are a perfect set-up for the interconnected standalones in this series. I can't wait to read them all!
If you like a touch of whimsy with your contemporary romance, as well as well developed settings for the plotline, please grab this book! 4.25 * for me, 1 chili pepper for spice. Recommend!
November 27, 2025
Thank you to Spoonbill Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC for my honest review.
This is my first A.E. Merriweather novel and the second in the Revel Pointe Romance series. In this Christmas romance set in Louisiana, we meet Summer, a librarian from Ohio who goes to Louisiana as an archivist for a theme park, think Disneyland, to help them catalog items for a museum. In the course of some mishaps along the way, she meets James. Not knowing that he is a the architect and grandson of the founder, they strike up a flirty exchange and a kiss on the airplane.
This fits all the classic Christmas comedic romance. This fast paced novel is a nice way to spend the afternoon. It was not necessary to read the first novel in the series as it was easy to pick up the characters relationships in this one.
This is my first A.E. Merriweather novel and the second in the Revel Pointe Romance series. In this Christmas romance set in Louisiana, we meet Summer, a librarian from Ohio who goes to Louisiana as an archivist for a theme park, think Disneyland, to help them catalog items for a museum. In the course of some mishaps along the way, she meets James. Not knowing that he is a the architect and grandson of the founder, they strike up a flirty exchange and a kiss on the airplane.
This fits all the classic Christmas comedic romance. This fast paced novel is a nice way to spend the afternoon. It was not necessary to read the first novel in the series as it was easy to pick up the characters relationships in this one.
July 23, 2025
This was an entertaining read about a librarian and an architect for a library, set in Louisiana at the construction of what felt like an amusement park for book lovers…aka I had a great time and wish it was real.
I at times wished it went deeper into Summer’s past experience with scoliosis because it was brushed over pretty quickly, but I think her character was very well done and her motivations were clear and consistent. James was also fun because I love a grump who’s a secret softie, and he delivered that!
I think the pacing of the story was good, although there was a lot of buildup in the front before we got to what I felt was the true story.
P.S., I also love turrets.
Thank you to NetGalley and Spoonbill Publishing for the eARC!
I at times wished it went deeper into Summer’s past experience with scoliosis because it was brushed over pretty quickly, but I think her character was very well done and her motivations were clear and consistent. James was also fun because I love a grump who’s a secret softie, and he delivered that!
I think the pacing of the story was good, although there was a lot of buildup in the front before we got to what I felt was the true story.
P.S., I also love turrets.
Thank you to NetGalley and Spoonbill Publishing for the eARC!
August 31, 2025
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
An interesting retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Summer begins working at Revel Pointe (Disney World in the Louisiana swamp) as an archivist, only to discover the guy she connected with strongly on the flight down is none other than James Reve the owner of Revel Point! But Summer has Grainger at home ready to sweep her off her feet. We know Beauty always chooses the beast.
Fun story, but I didn’t love it. Beauty had health issues. James could have been more developed. In fact, I don’t think we ever learned what caused his scar and chipped tooth This is book 2 in a series, so more information may come later.
If you love Disney and modern day retellings of classics, this book is for you!
An interesting retelling of Beauty and the Beast. Summer begins working at Revel Pointe (Disney World in the Louisiana swamp) as an archivist, only to discover the guy she connected with strongly on the flight down is none other than James Reve the owner of Revel Point! But Summer has Grainger at home ready to sweep her off her feet. We know Beauty always chooses the beast.
Fun story, but I didn’t love it. Beauty had health issues. James could have been more developed. In fact, I don’t think we ever learned what caused his scar and chipped tooth This is book 2 in a series, so more information may come later.
If you love Disney and modern day retellings of classics, this book is for you!
January 4, 2026
SEX IN A MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY???? immediate 2 star idc. why. ew. ugh. ick.
I dont see how this is a batb retelling. she's a librarian and hes a big strong hairy man? and geronimo or whatever is misogynistic gaston? sure, I guess if you made a bare-bones checklist of the plot of batb it resembles, but not enough that I would ever consider it a "retelling." that's like saying thohh or tfothou were retellings of shirley jackson's or edgar allan poe's works or the pjo show is a faithful adaptation. i love thohh (tfothou can disappear into a dark forgotten hole) but it's just a fact. mike flanagan was inspired and based his shows off of those materials, but they aren't a retelling.
the third act breakup was predictable from the moment she found those envelopes. the sudden, unexpected burning passion when the MCs got together was completely out of left field, they were barely thinking of each other at the time but as soon as they somehow saw each other in the pouring rain running in opposite directions it's like cupid fired a crazy obsession arrow right then and there. so odd. so unexpected. so out of the blue.
gaston lite was so stupid I couldn't even take him seriously knowing he was a cartoonist bad guy. why even have a love triangle if theres literally no competition or chance for him? Just to say it's a batb adaptation? there were so many other ways to add those elements without having to read about him.
thank u netgalley for arc. I did not know this was a sequel (i went off of vibes and a brief blurb) but at least the story is readable even if you go in blind. there are a few things I feel like im missing though.
I dont see how this is a batb retelling. she's a librarian and hes a big strong hairy man? and geronimo or whatever is misogynistic gaston? sure, I guess if you made a bare-bones checklist of the plot of batb it resembles, but not enough that I would ever consider it a "retelling." that's like saying thohh or tfothou were retellings of shirley jackson's or edgar allan poe's works or the pjo show is a faithful adaptation. i love thohh (tfothou can disappear into a dark forgotten hole) but it's just a fact. mike flanagan was inspired and based his shows off of those materials, but they aren't a retelling.
the third act breakup was predictable from the moment she found those envelopes. the sudden, unexpected burning passion when the MCs got together was completely out of left field, they were barely thinking of each other at the time but as soon as they somehow saw each other in the pouring rain running in opposite directions it's like cupid fired a crazy obsession arrow right then and there. so odd. so unexpected. so out of the blue.
gaston lite was so stupid I couldn't even take him seriously knowing he was a cartoonist bad guy. why even have a love triangle if theres literally no competition or chance for him? Just to say it's a batb adaptation? there were so many other ways to add those elements without having to read about him.
thank u netgalley for arc. I did not know this was a sequel (i went off of vibes and a brief blurb) but at least the story is readable even if you go in blind. there are a few things I feel like im missing though.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2025
1🌟 (because I have to rate NetGalley reviews)
Thank you, Spoonbill and NetGalley, for an eARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Unfortunately, I just could not get into this book. I DNF’d at about 15% because I just wasn’t finding myself invested in this story at all. The writing was almost too formal for a romance. I was really excited because this was marketed as a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but I couldn’t hang on long enough to find those parallels. Might be a case of just the wrong time, but right now, this isn’t for me.
Started: September 21, 2025
DNF'd: September 25th, 2025
Thank you, Spoonbill and NetGalley, for an eARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
Unfortunately, I just could not get into this book. I DNF’d at about 15% because I just wasn’t finding myself invested in this story at all. The writing was almost too formal for a romance. I was really excited because this was marketed as a Beauty and the Beast retelling, but I couldn’t hang on long enough to find those parallels. Might be a case of just the wrong time, but right now, this isn’t for me.
Started: September 21, 2025
DNF'd: September 25th, 2025
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