All I wanted was a fresh start. I didn’t expect to wind up in handcuffs my first day in town.
I left the familiar hustle and bustle of New York for a tiny Ohio town—a place where people wave from their porches and everyone knows what you had for breakfast.
I expected quiet streets and maybe a parking complaint or two. What I did not expect was becoming the talk of the town before I even drove my first patrol down Main Street.
And then there’s Officer Jesse Heinz—local, introverted, and kind in a way that sneaks up on you. He’s this unexpected combination of steadiness and… occasional awkwardness. He can rattle off citations like a spitfire rapper, and yet his quiet warmth keeps catching me off guard.
I figured I could handle being partnered with Jesse. Turns out—like the rest of this town—I underestimated him.
Because Bordeaux? It’s not as sleepy as it looks. Suddenly we’re knee-deep in holiday chaos—gingerbread gone missing, reindeer vanishing, and enough festive mischief to keep us chasing clues long past sunset.
Somewhere between the stakeouts, the quiet conversations, and the laughter I didn’t see coming, this little town is starting to feel like something I’ve been a place to belong.
And Jesse? He’s the holiday surprise I never saw coming.
If you love small-town charm, Christmas coziness, and slow-burn sparks, this closed-door holiday romcom is about finding your place… and the person who feels like home.
Oh..my sweet sweet Jesse! Our boy got his well deserved, and long awaited, happily ever after! ❤️
And a workplace romance…it couldn’t get any better!
Their first meeting was just the most comical thing! But their partnership…where they truly got to KNOW each other *chefs kiss*
If you’ve been around Bordeaux before you probably already had a soft spot for our awkward little police officer. Who knew all he needed was an Alex to come in and SEE him for more than the town joke. He just needed to be SEEN — and Alex was literally the most perfect girl for this!
I loved Alex’s ability to just jump right into any situation and just thrive! And her strength of character, and head on honesty. She was a perfect addition to the town!
I loved being back in one of my favorite small towns! The Christmas/winter background made it that much more magical. 🦌🎄
4.5/5 stars *I received a copy of this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
PARTNERSHIPPED in a pear tree by: @savannahscott_author
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~All she wanted was a fresh start. I didn’t expect to wind up in handcuffs my first day in town…
-PARTNERSHIPPED in a pear tree, is such a quick but delightful holiday novella that is filled to the brim with holiday cheer, swoony moments, delightful humor, and oh so much more. My friends, if you love small-town charm, Christmas coziness, and slow-burn sparks, this closed-door holiday romcom is about finding your place... and the person who feels like home! I thoroughly enjoyed being transported back to the small lovely town of Bordeaux-pronounced bored-ox. I was thoroughly delighted by such a clever meet-hilarious-ugly epic moment. Oh my, I can’t even imagine being in that scenario but, it would be my luck to be so. I loved the festive mischief and the heartwarming moments in between the pages, and the happily ever after. But, I especially loved watching this sweet little town setting become a place of belonging for dear characters! There’s nothing better than to feel accepted and part of something that feels extra special. Definitely, a delightful story worth the sweet read, any day but, especially around the holidays! 🎄📚❤️✨
“The world is celebrating a new beginning-but everything that matters to me began the moment Jesse and I chose each other.”
•Content: arrest, town drunk, festive mischief, no language, no violence. Kisses only. Clean-closes door!
“There’s something about him that got to me-something that makes me want to give him a chance instead of dismissing him.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Small towns really do come with their own built-in safety nets.”
#partnershippedinapeartree
“There’s something elemental in the way she impacts me, how holding her feels like finding a piece of myself that had been missing, but also like discovering someone brand new exciting, captivating, unexpected.”
#savannahscottauthor
“It’s her-the way she sees me, her passion about her dream, the ease between us, her sense of humor.”
This romcom was so sweet and fun! It can be enjoyed as a stand alone, but if you have read the Getting Shipped! series, police officer Jesse is a well known character. He finally gets his happily ever after in this tale.
I loved seeing Jesse through Alex’s eyes. Jesse is one of those characters who is integral to the town and is dedicated to the people who live in Bordeaux, but is a bit awkward and not always taken seriously by the people he serves. But that is not who Alex sees.
Even after a disastrous “meet ugly”, there is something about Jesse that appeals to Alex. I loved the way they grew to know each other as they worked as partners. Alex was able to see not only what a good police officer Jesse is, but also what a good man he is.
This novella brought a smile to my face with a sweet happily ever after for Jesse and Alex, a fun “whodunit” Christmas crime wave to solve, and the bonus of being able to catch up on the lives of the characters from the earlier books in the series!
(4.5 stars)
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Partnershipped in a Pear Tree by Savannah Scott was such a cozy, enjoyable read and a lovely return to Bordeaux—one of my favorite fictional small towns.
Even though it’s a novella, it still had Savannah’s signature charm, humor, and sweetness. I loved the holiday vibes and the little mystery woven into the story.
Jesse is a unique hero—sweet, thoughtful, devoted, and a bit awkward. He’s a police officer the townspeople seem to view with all the competence of Barney Fife. Many of them underestimated him and didn’t really see him. Not so with Alex.
Alex sees Jesse for who he truly is, valuing his quiet strengths and kindness, and quick to stand up for him. All of that made this love story especially endearing and beautiful. I loved how her belief in him made him bloom.
Between the quirky Bordeaux characters, small-town charm, and a heartfelt act of kindness toward a lonely widow, this was a warm, feel-good holiday read that left me smiling.
You can expect— Cozy Christmas vibes Small town Workplace romance Closed door Dual POV Shippers Cameos Sweet love story
One last trip to Bordeaux? Yes, please! If you’ve read Savannah Scott’s “Getting Shipped” series you’ll love being back, is it’s your first tome in Bordeaux (pronounced bored ox) welcome! You’re going to love this quaint and quirky small town!
Partnershipped in a Pear Tree is the adorable Novella length Christmas story of Alex(andra) and Jesse! Alex moved to Bordeaux for a fresh start and certainly didn’t expect to find herself in handcuffs right off the bat! Jesse, a police officer in town is misunderstood and often the butt of other people’s jokes, so arresting Alex on her first night in town doesn’t help his reputation! And little does he know, Alex is about to be his new partner! When these two get partnered together and have to settle some decor, wars and solve the mystery of the missing yard decorations, we quickly see that a little forced proximity never hurt anyone! 😉
I loved these two so much! Alex was such a good sport at the beginning of the story! I loved seeing Jesse through her eyes and loved how she saw the good in him throughout the story. Jesse was so adorable and endearing. He had such a good heart and the best of intentions. I loved how Alex’s acceptance of him helped him find his place!
Favorite quotes:
“The nice thing about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you're doing, someone else does.”
“I feel the warmth in his eyes when he glances over at me—like a sip of cocoa chasing away the chill.”
“He’s a good man. I’ve observed him in three different situations today, and in each one he shined without needing to be noticed—steady, charming, and obviously fluent in small-town diplomacy. A dangerous combination.”
“Alex’s laughter rings through the car, filling spaces that I didn’t realize were empty before she came along to fill them. It might not be prudent to like that sound as much as I do. But I can’t seem to help myself.”
It was such a treat to visit one of my favorite fictional towns at Christmas time! Thank you Savannah Scott for bringing us back to Bordeaux.
This novella was everything. It was the sweetest romance, but also so fun and witty! I loved how it started with the scavenger hut, the meet ugly, and all the chaos. Jesse is a cop in small town Bordeaux. He is so steady and good but has not been taken seriously in the town he loves. When Alex moves to town from New York for her new police officer job she gets partnered with Jesse for four weeks. She is his complete opposite. She is funny, and a carefree extrovert. I loved her charm. As these two start their work partnership, decoration wars start happening around the town as well as things getting stolen. The more they work together to find the culprit the more it becomes obvious these two are just perfect together. I loved how they joked and bantered with each other. I also loved the advice Alex got from Memaw.
This is the perfect quick read to add to your Christmas TBR. It is filled with Christmas magic and small town fun. The mystery and story were original and the romance sweet. If you haven't visited Bordeaux yet you will fall in love with the town and all the characters. I smiled so much reading this and I know you will too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The most adorable Christmas novella of all-time! Bordeaux Ohio is one of my most favorite places to hang out, and getting to spend Christmas there with all my old pals and some new friends as well was absolute perfection! I loved Alex and Jesse and they have the best meet-ugly ever, LOL! This delightful book was an absolute joy to read, and even though we’re past Christmas I still highly recommend picking this one up, because it’s guaranteed to light up your day and make you smile! I loved, loved, LOVED it so much and it will forever be a favorite! Please read it, you can thank me later!
I received a complimentary ebook copy of this book from the author! My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
workplace romance meet ugly small town closed door romance
Partnershipped in a Pear Tree gave me cozy holiday vibes, small town charm, and a slow-burn romance that warmed my heart. Jesse and Alex’s budding connection through stakes, holiday chaos, and quiet conversations made me smile and root for them from page one. The mix of festive mischief and growing feelings made this book feel like a perfect winter escape. It is a lighthearted romance full of heart that left me feeling all warm inside.
Content Warnings: -kisses only -no language
*Thank you to the author for a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
This novella was adorable! I always enjoy traveling back to Bordeaux and I’m so happy Patty decided to give us another story here. One thing Patty does SO WELL is take side characters that make you roll your eyes or curl up your nose and give them stories that let you see who they really are and make you feel for them. I absolutely adored Jesse and I loved how Alex truly saw him and made sure that others new just how wonderful he was. This story also has such a perfect not-so meet cute. If you’re looking for a sweet Christmas novella with a side of small town mystery then be sure to read this one!
👍🏻Read If You Like: * Winston & Allie from New Girl * Christmas novellas * small town romances * forced proximity
Jesse and Alex are the perfect partners. Alex sees Jesse for who he is and admires how he carries himself- even when the town doesn’t always take him seriously. After a tough break up, Alex decides to make the move to Bordeaux and joins the police force. Of course not much crime happens there, that is until Christmas decorations mysteriously begin to vanish. The pair are on the case! They make such a great team. Can they outside of work too?
What I loved: Visiting one of my favorite fictional towns. Jesse is the real deal. The sweetest, kindest MMC Alex tells it like it is and ready to face down anything- except maybe Memaw’s casseroles. All the towns people and small town gossip. The Christmas spirit sprinkled throughout the story. The group of friends. The meet-ugly!
I absolutely loved getting to revisit Bordeaux. It’s such a sweet town full of caring people and a little mischief. Another great novella by Savannah Scott. Be sure to add this novella to your Christmas TBR.
I absolutely loved being in Bordeaux again. 🥰 If you need a sweet, no-spice Christmas RomCom to get you into the swing of Holiday reading— this is it!
They have the best meet-cute of the series. This cast of characters were my first Savannah Scott community to fall in love with. They are still there just living their absurd life filled with heart and exuberance. It was a lot of fun to see them maturing into parents and to face their shortcomings as a group.
What a fun, short, and sweet novella for Christmas! I giggled so many times and I was so happy to be back in Bordeaux!!
I loved this one so much and I am so happy Jesse got his story. He was always an interesting side character and I think it was fun to see more about him. And Alexandria was the perfect partner for him. I loved the way Jesse and Alex understood each other. She gets him in a way others don't. They had such a great connection. They were so sweet together!
The small town vibes were on point! I love how Savannah Scott writes small towns, she is a master at them. It was so fun to see the past Getting Shipped characters again. Especially Mabel and Memaw! They always make me laugh so hard! Scott added a unexpected twist and I love how the mystery played out.
I’ve loved Bordeaux and all its characters and I’m happy that Jesse finally gets his HEA. The meet cute between him and Alex was hilarious. Alex was sweet and so understanding. I loved watching these two become friends and then more. They truly saw each other. Alex’s honesty and willingness to just say what she means and jump right in were a breath of fresh air. They made a great team, both professionally and personally.
I loved Alex and Jesse from the moment they met! This story is funny, sweet, full of Christmas cheer, and nosy neighbors! Come back to Bordeaux. This book has plenty of cameos of you’ve read the rest of the series, but can also be read independently.
Going back to Bordeaux for Christmas was everything! From the hilarious meet-disaster, to a fun little small town Christmas mystery, a sweet slow burn, being seen, and finding your place—this little novella is just a pure delight. If you’ve been to Bordeaux before, you will not want to miss this! If you’ve never been, you can totally enjoy it as a standalone, but be warned, you’ll probably want to go back for more!
It’s soooo GOOD to be back in Bordeaux or as it’s affectionately called “Bored Ox.” Partnershipped in a Pear Tree is the darling Christmas novella that was just begging to be told. If you’re familiar with the Getting Shipped series, you’ve easily fallen in love with this small Ohio town & its quirky residents. Savannah Scott brings them all back but this time for the shy, somewhat awkward Officer Jesse Heinz’s story. (Think a charming Barney Fife type.) This feel-good, holiday spirit infused, sweet romcom tugged on my heart strings & made me snort with laughter.
Alex’s confident, caring, & a force to be reckoned with! She’s also a New York police officer looking for a new start in the tiny town of Bordeaux where her cousin Lexi lives. Her first encounter with her new fellow officer, Jesse, well let’s just say it’s more of a meet ugly than meet cute. Seriously found myself laughing out loud.
Jesse’s determined to do things by the book, but he also has a heart of gold & tends to see the best in people. The Bordeaux residents may have underestimated him & not extended the same kindness he extends them, but that’s all about to change when Alex arrives. Sometimes it takes a stranger to really see someone for who they really are, & this is true for both Alex & Jesse. They can really be themselves with each other. And, what better way to get to know someone better than with an intriguing mystery to solve.
Someone is stealing the town’s Christmas decorations & it’s up to Alex & Jesse to figure out who the culprit is. With tons of laughs, & tender moments that really get at the root of Christmas, this story definitely warmed my heart & put a smile on my face. I enjoyed seeing Jesse get his moment to shine. I also loved seeing Cooter’s soft side, & of course MeeMaw & the rest of the Getting Shipped gang.
Highly recommend this delightful Christmas romcom! Even if you haven’t read the series, you’ll enjoy this novella. And, I guarantee it’ll definitely make you want to read more. I received an advanced copy from the author but also purchased in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
A chance to return to the BEST fictional small-town ever!? YES PLEASE! If you’ve followed me for a while, you should know by now that Savannah Scott’s Getting Shipped RomCom series is one of the best of the best. The small town of Bordeaux, Ohio and its endearing cast of characters will truly live in your heart forever. To have this surprise Christmas novella released was such a treat. How cute is this cover!? And oh yes, this meet-cute involves an arrest. Need I say more? LOL
Alexandra has just moved from Brooklyn to Bordeaux. Talk about culture shock! She settles in with the love and support of her cousin, Lexi, who lives in town. Alexandra (Alex) had dreamt of joining the NYPD back in Brooklyn, but life had other plans. Now she’s about to start her career with the Bordeaux PD, but things get awkward when before her first day on the job she’s pulled over and arrested by the PD’s very own officer Jesse Heinz. A complete misunderstanding mind you – and a hilarious one at that.
Alex and Jesse wind up being paired together as partners, cruising Bordeaux and dealing with all the chaos and “crime” that unfolds in their quaint little town. Nearly every character you fell in love with from the Getting Shipped series makes an appearance in this novella. If that doesn’t make you excited, I don’t know what will!
I loved that this story brought a mystery to be solved. I loved Jesse’s introverted and socially awkward demeanor. I loved Alex’s authenticity and awareness of how truly special the town of Bordeaux is. The romance that blooms between Jesse and Alex is so sweet and the ending of this story is just going to melt your heart in a million different ways. Being back in Bordeaux felt like the biggest hug.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
Savannah Scott is really showing her readers the love this holiday season by releasing not one but two holiday novellas—perfect bite-sized reads for this crazy busy season. I read and reviewed and loved Date Yourself a Grinch. It is fabulous. Now I have I read Partnershipped in a Pear Tree, and I have to say Scott knows what her readers want for Christmas. The novella was fabulous!
Partnershipped in a Pear Tree takes us back to Bordeaux, OH, when Lexi’s cousin Alex moves to town to join the police force. When Alex’ first meeting with Office Jesse Heinz is anything but cute, she isn’t sure what to think. The story that follows is full of second chance, hope, and romance.
Things to love: -Bordeaux and all its residents -a hilarious meet ugly -workplace romance -holiday vibes -missing Christmas decorations -forced proximity -slow burn
I was familiar with Jesse from the other books in the series, so I wasn’t sure what to think about him as an MMC. Scott did a brilliant job bringing Jesse’s story to life. I loved getting his POV and seeing Alex fall for him. It was so fun to see Alex look at Jesse with a fresh set of eyes and really see the man behind the badge. It was so well done.
Alex was fabulous, like all of Scott’s FMCs. She was strong and driven but also soft and kind. I loved how her relationship with Jesse developed and how connected they became as partners. Her conversations with Memaw were some of my favorites. Memaw gave great advice, as usual.
I adored this novella. It was the perfect addition to the Shipped world. I loved getting to see all my favorite couples and visiting this beloved town again.
The novella is bite-sized, but Scott still infuses her signature banter, chemistry, and wise words of wisdom to the story. This novella is the perfect quick escape during the holidays, or really any time of year.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
One last trip to Bordeaux? Yes, please! If you’ve read Savannah Scott’s “Getting Shipped” series you’ll love being back, is it’s your first tome in Bordeaux (pronounced bored ox) welcome! You’re going to love this quaint Ns quirky small town!
Partnershipped in a Pear Tree is the adorable Novella length Christmas story of Alex(andra) and Jesse! Alex moved to Bordeaux for a fresh start and certainly didn’t expect to find herself in handcuffs right off the bat! Jesse, a police officer in town is misunderstood and often the butt of other people’s jokes, so arresting Alex on her first night in town doesn’t help his reputation! And little does he know, Alex is about to be his new partner! When these two get partnered together and have to settle some decor, wars and solve the mystery of the missing yard decorations, we quickly see that a little forced proximity never hurt anyone! 😉
I loved these two so much! Alex was such a good sport at the beginning of the story! I loved seeing Jesse through her eyes and loved how she saw the good in him throughout the story. Jesse was so adorable and endearing. He had such a good heart and the best of intentions. I loved how Alex’s acceptance of him helped him find his place!
Favorite quotes:
“The nice thing about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you're doing, someone else does.”
“I feel the warmth in his eyes when he glances over at me—like a sip of cocoa chasing away the chill.”
“He’s a good man. I’ve observed him in three different situations today, and in each one he shined without needing to be noticed—steady, charming, and obviously fluent in small-town diplomacy. A dangerous combination.”
“Alex’s laughter rings through the car, filling spaces that I didn’t realize were empty before she came along to fill them. It might not be prudent to like that sound as much as I do. But I can’t seem to help myself.”
Alex trades New York for the small town of Bordeaux, only to be swept into unexpected holiday chaos with her steady but awkward partner, Officer Jesse Heinz. As they chase festive mischief together, the town starts to feel like home and along the way, Jesse becomes the surprise Alex never saw coming.
What you’ll love: Workplace romance Dual pov Novella length Hilarious meet cute New police partners Forced proximity Small town charm Cameos Holiday mystery Super cute romance
Oh my, I loved every single minute of being back in Bordeaux! It’s one of my favorite fictional towns, and opening this book felt like coming home. I adored meeting the new characters added to the friend group, and I’m so thrilled that Jesse finally got his own HEA!
From the laugh-out-loud meet-cute to the heartfelt moments woven through small-town life to the perfectly adorable epilogue, I was completely engrossed for every page for this holiday romance. The mystery added a fun layer of intrigue to the small-town antics and the growing attraction between Jesse and Alex. They were sooo incredibly cute together!
Loved seeing the whole Shipped crew again (my heart absolutely skipped a beat when Duke made his entrance!). You can absolutely enjoy this story even if you haven’t read any of the other books in the Shipped series. The character cameos are simply a delightful bonus for those who have.
If you love stories with holiday charm, small-town shenanigans, and finding love in unexpected places, this book deserves a spot on your holiday reading list this year!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
This bite-size holiday story is the perfect way to make you laugh and get you in the mood for some Christmas fun. A small town, a big city girl who just moved in, a friend group that has known each other forever, an awkward policeman, and townspeople who love to take care of each other and get in other's business- it's a perfect set up for laughter and warm moments. And there are plenty of both.
When I say small town, think the Seed and Feed and the formalwear shop being in the same store. Yep. That's Bordeaux- pronounced bored-ox. Say no more. This is a town where the author has an entire series set, but whether or not you've read them- you will enjoy this one. You may go back to Bordeaux to the beginning after.
My favorite part? The meet-hilarious. No spoilers, but it's epic. Meet-ugly might be a better word, because there is nothing cute about it.
"No chance you'd put on the Santa hat for me, is there?" He stares unimpressed. "Yeah. Didn't think so. Pity. It would have completed your whole festive Grinch-with-a-badge aesthetic."
"I may wear boxers with Disney characters on them, but I'm all business when it comes to crime."
Oh, the many quotes I could share from this novella. Some may make you snort laugh,(read at your own risk) other's really hit you in the feeler.
"Introversion isn't a disease to be cured. It's a natural state for some people. We extroverts need those deeper souls like a ship needs an anchor."
Go visit the town of Bordeaux, you will fall in love with them, Memaw included, and want to go again and again.
“Sometimes the best gifts show up exactly when you stop looking for them.”
Savannah Scott is back with another dose of cozy charm in Partnershipped, a swoony holiday novella set in the most festive little town—Bordeaux, Ohio. This time, we follow Alex, a New York transplant and the newest police officer in town, who kicks off her first day with the world’s most awkward meet-ugly: she gets accidentally arrested by the man who turns out to be… her new partner, Jesse. 😂
From the moment Alex and Jesse lock eyes (after the handcuffs come off, of course), the chemistry is instant and irresistible. What I loved most is how Alex truly sees him—his heart, his value, and the goodness he brings to the town, even when others overlook him. Their connection grows through humor, shared purpose, and some surprisingly tender moments.
Between the holiday lights, the small-town warmth, and a charming little mystery involving missing Christmas decorations, this novella is the perfect blend of cute, heartfelt, and festive.
🎄 Read this if you love: • Small town romance • Holiday novellas • Workplace romance • Forced proximity • A sprinkle of small-town mystery • Soft, supportive MMCs + bright, grounded FMCs
Savannah Scott delivered exactly what I wanted: a sweet, heartwarming escape wrapped in Christmas cheer. Add this one to your holiday TBR if you’re looking for a holiday romance you can read in one sitting ❤️📚✨
🥜 In a Nutshell: A cop moves from New York to Bordeaux for a fresh start but she becomes the talk of the town before her first day on the job after a run in with another officer, who happens to be her partner. Now the two must work together to solve some Christmas related crimes.
✅ Workplace romance ✅ Small town charm ✅ Christmas hijinks
I have only read one other book in the Getting Shipped series and it was in the middle of the series. So much like I felt then, I really wish I had read the rest of the series first. I think I would have enjoyed this story much more if I knew all of the side characters and townsfolk. I may reread it someday once I read the whole series. But I still liked this story. Jesse was a unique MMC and I liked that he was a little different. I liked how Alex stood up for him and was protective of him. They had a sweet slow burn while working together to solve the Christmas thefts that were happening all over town. And I loved their meet cute. It was really funny! Overall, it was a short and sweet crime solving Christmas romance that would definitely be better for those who have visited Bordeaux previously.
Another surprise trip back to Bordeaux, Ohio (pronounced Bored Ox, of course!) and this one for the holidays? Um, yes please! If you've read the Getting Shipped! series already, you know that this little town and its quirky residents are hard to say goodbye to, so I was thrilled to discover we were getting to head back for a quick holiday trip! And boy, what a fun trip it was! Jesse and Alex had me laughing right from their unfortunate meet-cute (seriously, the best!) ... and the laughs didn't stop there! If you thought Bordeaux was fun through the rest of the year... just wait until you experience these holiday shenanigans... complete with a holiday mystery to solve. Jesse and Alex made a great crime solving team... and an even better couple! I couldn't get enough of these two! If you're looking for a holiday read with a hint of mystery and non-stop laughs, this is one not to be missed!
Partnershipped in a Pear Tree is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is connected to the Getting Shipped! series. While I think those who have read the previous books will appreciate this short trip back to Bordeaux, Ohio most, it could probably be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Although Jesse is a born and bred Bordeaux native, he’s a bit of an outcast. He wants so badly to be accepted and included. He has such a gentle spirit, but he’s a bit of a bumbler. Take his first encounter with Alex.
Alex moved to Bordeaux for a fresh start and things have not started out so well. Being handcuffed was not on her Bingo card.
After their first-meet fiasco, I loved watching these two find their footing with one another and in this close knit small town. There was so much Christmas joy, tender moments with the town drunk, a bit of mischief, and a lot of fun seeing beloved friends once again in Bordeaux.
This short read packs a punch with heart, hope, and healing of two people who think they need to change to be loved and accepted.
“After years of living on the fringes, he doesn’t know how to include himself without risking more rejection. But that’s not who he is. I’ve seen the real Jesse—the one who extends grace to Cooter, settles disputes with diplomacy, exudes a quiet confidence and has a great sense of humor.”
“With everyone else, I’ve always had to adjust and perform. With Jesse, I don’t have to hold any part of myself back.”
Thank you to Savannah Scott for the copy. All opinions are my own.
"Let him chase you, dear. But don't make him work too hard. We courted men too. Only they never knew it. The key is to keep the man thinking he's the one in hot pursuit. The women of my generation played hard to get on the surface. But underneath it we were as reliable as Hansel and Gretel, a bread-crumb trail of flirtation leading straight down the path to where we wanted them."
"That sounds like a lot of work," I admit.
"And a lot of fun," Memaw wags her brows. "Let the man pursue you. It's in his nature. Something about him wakes up as he chases you. And when he catches you, he'll have earned it."
Such a sweet and fun return to Bordeaux, OH, for some Christmas shenanigans! I really enjoyed getting Jesse's story. How despite the awkward first meeting *AHEM-arrest* Alex saw and valued him for who he was, always standing firmly on his side and therefore seeing the side of him that few others did. It was such a sweet partners/friends-to-more story with the perfect amount of buildup in novella length. Not to mention all the fun small-town characters and hijinks! A delightful Christmas read.