What do you think?
Rate this book
Icelandic Romance #1
Snug in Iceland
Rachel Richards is stuck in a rut. Her boyfriend Adam barely notices her most of the time and her life in London isn’t as exciting as it should be. When the company she works for, Snug, asks her to oversee the opening of a new store in Iceland, she jumps at the chance for a change of scenery. Exploring Reykjavik with the help of Icelandic tour guide Jonas, Rachel discovers that life is out there waiting to be lived. As she falls in love with Iceland, she begins to see what is important to her and wonders whether the life she left behind is what she wants after all…
202 pages, Paperback
First published August 29, 2021
521 people are currently reading
935 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Walker
12 books66 followersVictoria Walker has been writing romantic fiction since a visit to Iceland in 2014 inspired her first novel. As well as writing, she spends her free time dressmaking, knitting and reading an inordinate amount of contemporary romance, occasionally punctuated by the odd psychological thriller and saga.
In the past she has worked as a cinema projectionist, a knitting and sewing tutor and has owned a yarn store, all things which will no doubt appear in her books if they haven't already.
Victoria lives in the Malvern Hills.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
December 4, 2024
2* ( for the cover)
This just wasn't for me on a number of levels sadly.
I could not connect with this main character (or any characters) within this book. The whole story was so over the place I couldn't get a sense of the book actually being serious or not.
-One min she's with her boyfriend and the next she's in another country.
-One min she's lusting over a new guy she just met and then when she finds out her boyfriend has been snooping around another woman she gets on the high horse.
- then she's snuggling up with this new guy and pissed off again when the boyfriend admits her kissed someone.
You can see where I'm going with this lol. It was all a little to double standards for my liking. It has huge vibes off when a couple should just break up. I get how that could mix into real life to show how hard it is to detach from a relationship that doesn't work. I think that's maybe what the author was going for here.
The cover is very beautiful and I expected a more cosy, delightful story that was filled with descriptions about the area and good foods!
This is lacking in both and it was a little disappointing just now little detail it has within the story. I would have DNF but I was holding out for something awesome happening in the last section. Sadly this was not the case.
I hope others get something out of reading this book ❤️
This just wasn't for me on a number of levels sadly.
I could not connect with this main character (or any characters) within this book. The whole story was so over the place I couldn't get a sense of the book actually being serious or not.
-One min she's with her boyfriend and the next she's in another country.
-One min she's lusting over a new guy she just met and then when she finds out her boyfriend has been snooping around another woman she gets on the high horse.
- then she's snuggling up with this new guy and pissed off again when the boyfriend admits her kissed someone.
You can see where I'm going with this lol. It was all a little to double standards for my liking. It has huge vibes off when a couple should just break up. I get how that could mix into real life to show how hard it is to detach from a relationship that doesn't work. I think that's maybe what the author was going for here.
The cover is very beautiful and I expected a more cosy, delightful story that was filled with descriptions about the area and good foods!
This is lacking in both and it was a little disappointing just now little detail it has within the story. I would have DNF but I was holding out for something awesome happening in the last section. Sadly this was not the case.
I hope others get something out of reading this book ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2022
1.5 - I'm a firm believer that some books would just be better off as movies. This is one of them.
Here's why:
1) The sense of place is horrendous. I take personal offence because this book is set in Iceland and therefore, the setting should be a character in itself.
2) The main character is SO ANNOYING. She has no spine, she lets her stupid boyfriend walk all over her (and she knows she does but lets it happen anyway but complains endlessly about it of course), she tastes ASIAN FOOD FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ICELAND EVEN THOUGH SHE SUPPOSEDLY LIVES IN LONDON (????????), she's flat, uninteresting and boring af but she gets the attention of a super hot, adventurous Icelandic guy at first sight. I could keep going - Rachel is just so unseasoned she could be whatever food she ate before she moved to Reykjavik.
3) There are no descriptions???? She goes on roadtrips through Iceland that take hours and she's like 'Drove 90 minutes to Geysir and the super hot Icelandic guide said, these cabins are the toilets and the visitor centre'. DID YOU SEE NOTHING ELSE DURING THE WHOLE DRIVE?? HOW IS IT POSSIBLE??? I also have no idea what the characters look like, even the super hot Icelandic guide. I can only remember 'sparkling eyes', whatever that means.
4) ALL OF THE WORK-RELATED DIALOGUE/THOUGHTS WAS DRIVING ME INSANE. At some point I just skimmed through it. Pages and pages of it. If I wanted to become a shop manager, I'm sure I could now that I read this fucking book.
5) The back and forth with her boyfriend in London - "he loves me but actually he never pays attention to me and always comes home late and just to sleep, I'm not attracted to him at all but I can't be attracted to the hot guy because I have the boring guy at home waiting for me even though actually he's not waiting for me because I know he only cares about work and hates swimming when I love swimming and he's probably cheating on me and everyone I know hates him but I love him" - omg who cares.
6) The writing was so basic the book seemed to have been written by someone whose English is not their first language. The dialogues were cliched to the point of making me roll my eyes every five minutes, the descriptions (what descriptions????) were rudimentary at best, the character building inexistent, the ending and honestly even the relationship between the hot guy and the MC were so rushed and anticlimactic... I can't say one single good thing about the writing (or plot).
7) Minor thing but why does the cover look like Canada? There are barely any trees in Iceland. It's a beautiful cover but it makes no sense??
8) MC goes to the Blue Lagoon as soon as she lands in Iceland but somehow she doesn't even see moss fields or smell rotten eggs? She mentions the lagoon is surrounded by boulders?? What?? You sure you've been to Iceland, Victoria? Christ. Also, when did you go cause they do not give keys or a towel when you check-in (FYI, they give you a bracelet which is your key to your locker and the towel you just grab it later when you go to the changing rooms and hmm did you just miss the door that leads to the pool?? Why the fuck did you have to walk in the cold until you reached the pool? I'm so confused)
9) Lots of cursing in this review but I'm just annoyed and disappointed because the reviews for this book were GLOWING and I was so excited to read this but it turned out to be so crappy I can't even look at the damn book. Anyway, 9th reason, everyone speaks English perfectly in Iceland apparently. Like even with British expressions and no grammar errors, ever. Right.
10) First time there's an Icelandic word in this book, the word is mistyped. I was PISSED.
11) Okay, I'm done, I could keep going but it's just not worth it. This book should never have been a book, it should've been a movie with lots of gorgeous scenery and a mediocre plot and a nice soundtrack that would hopefully be directed by someone who actually knows how to make romantic comedies and THAT would be cute. This ain't cute. Bye.
Here's why:
1) The sense of place is horrendous. I take personal offence because this book is set in Iceland and therefore, the setting should be a character in itself.
2) The main character is SO ANNOYING. She has no spine, she lets her stupid boyfriend walk all over her (and she knows she does but lets it happen anyway but complains endlessly about it of course), she tastes ASIAN FOOD FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ICELAND EVEN THOUGH SHE SUPPOSEDLY LIVES IN LONDON (????????), she's flat, uninteresting and boring af but she gets the attention of a super hot, adventurous Icelandic guy at first sight. I could keep going - Rachel is just so unseasoned she could be whatever food she ate before she moved to Reykjavik.
3) There are no descriptions???? She goes on roadtrips through Iceland that take hours and she's like 'Drove 90 minutes to Geysir and the super hot Icelandic guide said, these cabins are the toilets and the visitor centre'. DID YOU SEE NOTHING ELSE DURING THE WHOLE DRIVE?? HOW IS IT POSSIBLE??? I also have no idea what the characters look like, even the super hot Icelandic guide. I can only remember 'sparkling eyes', whatever that means.
4) ALL OF THE WORK-RELATED DIALOGUE/THOUGHTS WAS DRIVING ME INSANE. At some point I just skimmed through it. Pages and pages of it. If I wanted to become a shop manager, I'm sure I could now that I read this fucking book.
5) The back and forth with her boyfriend in London - "he loves me but actually he never pays attention to me and always comes home late and just to sleep, I'm not attracted to him at all but I can't be attracted to the hot guy because I have the boring guy at home waiting for me even though actually he's not waiting for me because I know he only cares about work and hates swimming when I love swimming and he's probably cheating on me and everyone I know hates him but I love him" - omg who cares.
6) The writing was so basic the book seemed to have been written by someone whose English is not their first language. The dialogues were cliched to the point of making me roll my eyes every five minutes, the descriptions (what descriptions????) were rudimentary at best, the character building inexistent, the ending and honestly even the relationship between the hot guy and the MC were so rushed and anticlimactic... I can't say one single good thing about the writing (or plot).
7) Minor thing but why does the cover look like Canada? There are barely any trees in Iceland. It's a beautiful cover but it makes no sense??
8) MC goes to the Blue Lagoon as soon as she lands in Iceland but somehow she doesn't even see moss fields or smell rotten eggs? She mentions the lagoon is surrounded by boulders?? What?? You sure you've been to Iceland, Victoria? Christ. Also, when did you go cause they do not give keys or a towel when you check-in (FYI, they give you a bracelet which is your key to your locker and the towel you just grab it later when you go to the changing rooms and hmm did you just miss the door that leads to the pool?? Why the fuck did you have to walk in the cold until you reached the pool? I'm so confused)
9) Lots of cursing in this review but I'm just annoyed and disappointed because the reviews for this book were GLOWING and I was so excited to read this but it turned out to be so crappy I can't even look at the damn book. Anyway, 9th reason, everyone speaks English perfectly in Iceland apparently. Like even with British expressions and no grammar errors, ever. Right.
10) First time there's an Icelandic word in this book, the word is mistyped. I was PISSED.
11) Okay, I'm done, I could keep going but it's just not worth it. This book should never have been a book, it should've been a movie with lots of gorgeous scenery and a mediocre plot and a nice soundtrack that would hopefully be directed by someone who actually knows how to make romantic comedies and THAT would be cute. This ain't cute. Bye.
November 12, 2025
Snug in Iceland is the story of Rachel, a woman who is tasked with the supervision of a new store. It’s a welcome change for Rachel, and also the start of a new journey.
Read
December 17, 2024DNF @ 67%
October 1, 2021
This is such an enjoyable read. The story takes you off to Iceland with Rachel who at the beginning seems to have the ideal life going in London. Pretty soon, you begin to suspect there are a few cracks in her relationship with Adam and that actually this seemingly great lifestyle is covering up for her dissatisfaction. The trip to set up a new retail outlet in Reykjavik offers her the chance to re-evaluate everything. It also shows us a gorgeous place, full of snow, sparkle and cosy touches. The Northern Lights add that magical touch.
The description of life in Iceland, and the warmth of the characters she meets there, paint such an enticing picture. Can Rachel take a risk and start over or will she return to her safe life? No spoilers here, but if you are looking for an uplifting story to snuggle up with on a col wintry night, this is ideal.
In short: Warm characters and gorgeous scenery
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
The description of life in Iceland, and the warmth of the characters she meets there, paint such an enticing picture. Can Rachel take a risk and start over or will she return to her safe life? No spoilers here, but if you are looking for an uplifting story to snuggle up with on a col wintry night, this is ideal.
In short: Warm characters and gorgeous scenery
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
May 16, 2023
This one hit the spot! It was a light read and I enjoyed both the excursions around Iceland and the romance.
November 3, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! Loved that the author used actual street names & shops in Reykjavik! It was so cool to read and think “oh my god we were there!” Five stars and highly recommend… especially if you’ve been to Iceland! 🇮🇸
December 27, 2024
Well this was disappointing.
December 6, 2025
I mean classically cheesy AF, not the most amazing writing but so cute and wintery and generally wholesome in the falling in love aspect ...
BUT
Some serious double standards storyline wise, quite rushed and things happend so suddenly between people and within the storyline, sad about the limited descriptions of the area (made it feel like Iceland was just plucked out of thin air with limited knowledge of the area to expand on the setting).
BUT
Some serious double standards storyline wise, quite rushed and things happend so suddenly between people and within the storyline, sad about the limited descriptions of the area (made it feel like Iceland was just plucked out of thin air with limited knowledge of the area to expand on the setting).
January 22, 2023
Now I really want to go back to Iceland!
Rachel gets a much deserved promotion at work, which involves her spending a few weeks in Reykjavík to oversee the opening of their first Icelandic store. Her partner Adam is less pleased about her new travel plans, but since he is constantly at work or out with clients, she figures her being in a different country probably won’t make much difference to how much they see each other and hopefully the distance will provide them both with some much needed perspective.
This was such a lovely, cosy read that made my remember my trips to Iceland vividly. And now I’m back on Skyscanner to see if I can fly out anytime soon… one thing Rachel didn’t comment on was how expensive everything is!
Rachel gets a much deserved promotion at work, which involves her spending a few weeks in Reykjavík to oversee the opening of their first Icelandic store. Her partner Adam is less pleased about her new travel plans, but since he is constantly at work or out with clients, she figures her being in a different country probably won’t make much difference to how much they see each other and hopefully the distance will provide them both with some much needed perspective.
This was such a lovely, cosy read that made my remember my trips to Iceland vividly. And now I’m back on Skyscanner to see if I can fly out anytime soon… one thing Rachel didn’t comment on was how expensive everything is!
August 29, 2024
I decided to read this book because I’m traveling to Iceland in 2 weeks. I’m so excited! I’ve never been 🙌
That being said I really enjoyed the story and plot of this book. I know this is a relatively new author so I knew this wouldn’t be any kind of bestseller. I was most impressed with the dialogue-it was very real and didn’t seem awkward or cheesy. This was a great easy breezy read!
My only complaint is that the descriptions of the scenery and characters could have been better. For example I wasn’t sure what some of the supporting characters looked like and I never learned the eye color of the main character. I realize this isn’t always a factor is books but in romance novels like this one, physical character descriptions play a big role in the ambiance of the novel.
Because I haven’t been to Iceland yet, I couldn’t picture some of the landscapes described. I know that writing beautiful images is hard, but some of the descriptions where literally just Rachel, the main character, stating, “it was so beautiful it was indescribable” or “the beauty has hard to put into words.” I’m reading like please, Rachel, try 😂 because I don’t know what you’re viewing.
Anyway the romance was great and I stand by Rachel’s choices and decisions. I think Jonas and Rachel will be very happy 💕
That being said I really enjoyed the story and plot of this book. I know this is a relatively new author so I knew this wouldn’t be any kind of bestseller. I was most impressed with the dialogue-it was very real and didn’t seem awkward or cheesy. This was a great easy breezy read!
My only complaint is that the descriptions of the scenery and characters could have been better. For example I wasn’t sure what some of the supporting characters looked like and I never learned the eye color of the main character. I realize this isn’t always a factor is books but in romance novels like this one, physical character descriptions play a big role in the ambiance of the novel.
Because I haven’t been to Iceland yet, I couldn’t picture some of the landscapes described. I know that writing beautiful images is hard, but some of the descriptions where literally just Rachel, the main character, stating, “it was so beautiful it was indescribable” or “the beauty has hard to put into words.” I’m reading like please, Rachel, try 😂 because I don’t know what you’re viewing.
Anyway the romance was great and I stand by Rachel’s choices and decisions. I think Jonas and Rachel will be very happy 💕
September 25, 2021
I had no idea what to expect from the book with a gorgeous cover and enticing title, so was rather impressed with the story inside.
It is a fabulous book to read when you are curled up somewhere cosy, and hopefully warm, as Iceland in February is cold and beautiful.
The sightseeing trips gave a good insight into various parts of Reykjavik, and Jonas is an exceedingly handsome and fabulous guide.
It was a privilege to see Iceland through Rachel's eyes, as she sets up a new branch of Snug, a shop dedicated to small lesser known local crafts and some from across their other locations.
And I really enjoyed getting to know Rachel as she spends a few weeks in Iceland which gives her a chance to revaluate her relationship with Adam.
I adored every moment of this debut novel, and already know I'll be happy to read more from this author in the future.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It is a fabulous book to read when you are curled up somewhere cosy, and hopefully warm, as Iceland in February is cold and beautiful.
The sightseeing trips gave a good insight into various parts of Reykjavik, and Jonas is an exceedingly handsome and fabulous guide.
It was a privilege to see Iceland through Rachel's eyes, as she sets up a new branch of Snug, a shop dedicated to small lesser known local crafts and some from across their other locations.
And I really enjoyed getting to know Rachel as she spends a few weeks in Iceland which gives her a chance to revaluate her relationship with Adam.
I adored every moment of this debut novel, and already know I'll be happy to read more from this author in the future.
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
May 8, 2023
This was my book for Jolabokaod, when Icelanders exchange books on Christmas Eve. It was a wonderful story of Rachel falling in love with Iceland while opening a new store there, Snug sounds like my kind of shop. I’ve always wanted to visit and this book just added to it, I only hope that Ti & Kaffe and the gin bar exist!
September 3, 2022
The book was very badly written with stock phrases like ' my legs turned to jelly" .
A book that left no lasting impression and gave no insights.
No insight into iceland culture etc beyond the stereotypes.
Would not recommend.
A book that left no lasting impression and gave no insights.
No insight into iceland culture etc beyond the stereotypes.
Would not recommend.
April 7, 2025
Ein cozy Buch mit Island-Flair, das sich gut für Zwischendurch lesen lässt. Ich mochte die Atmosphäre und hatte bei ein paar Szenen direkt eigene Erinnerungen im Kopf – aber so ganz gepackt hat es mich nicht. Die Story war ziemlich vorhersehbar, die Figuren okay, aber ohne besonderen Tiefgang.
Für alle, die Lust auf eine kleine romantisierte Island-Auszeit im Buchformat haben – ohne große Überraschungen, aber mit ein paar netten Momenten.
Für alle, die Lust auf eine kleine romantisierte Island-Auszeit im Buchformat haben – ohne große Überraschungen, aber mit ein paar netten Momenten.
October 6, 2021
I would just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for very kindly forwarding me an Arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review.
This was the perfect book to snuggle up with on these chilly Autumn nights. It was full of wonderful characters who I instantly warmed to and couldn’t wait to find out more about.
The descriptions of Iceland were so realistic and I honestly believed I was there experiencing it all.
Come and join Rachel and find out if she returns to her original safe life or see if she risks it all to start over.
I really loved this debut novel and can’t wait to read more from this wonderful author…..
This was the perfect book to snuggle up with on these chilly Autumn nights. It was full of wonderful characters who I instantly warmed to and couldn’t wait to find out more about.
The descriptions of Iceland were so realistic and I honestly believed I was there experiencing it all.
Come and join Rachel and find out if she returns to her original safe life or see if she risks it all to start over.
I really loved this debut novel and can’t wait to read more from this wonderful author…..
January 25, 2023
Easy read, cosy romance which swept me off to Iceland and I loved it!
The ending was disappointing, it felt rushed and just over the top which almost ruined it for me.
But over all one of my favourites, the scenery and characters all came together perfectly.
The ending was disappointing, it felt rushed and just over the top which almost ruined it for me.
But over all one of my favourites, the scenery and characters all came together perfectly.
December 17, 2025
Easy, cosy reading. ❤️
February 5, 2022
It's a lovely snow-filled romance set in Iceland.
Be warned: Reykjavik sounds so lovely a place to visit... and Iceland is such a dramatic and impressive place... you may find yourself googling flights and hotels.
Rachel works for a (fantastic sounding) shop chain called Snug and is sent to set up their Icelandic store. Leaving a lacklustre boyfriend, Adam, behind in London she realises that there's more to life than work and worry as she falls in love with the weather-worn, craggy and impressive Iceland and her Icelandic tour guide, Jonas.
But will Adam let her be happy....?
And if you need another inducement, there's a free pattern to knit an Icelandic hat. Just off to grab mine.....
Be warned: Reykjavik sounds so lovely a place to visit... and Iceland is such a dramatic and impressive place... you may find yourself googling flights and hotels.
Rachel works for a (fantastic sounding) shop chain called Snug and is sent to set up their Icelandic store. Leaving a lacklustre boyfriend, Adam, behind in London she realises that there's more to life than work and worry as she falls in love with the weather-worn, craggy and impressive Iceland and her Icelandic tour guide, Jonas.
But will Adam let her be happy....?
And if you need another inducement, there's a free pattern to knit an Icelandic hat. Just off to grab mine.....
June 10, 2025
I picked this book up because I spent a week in Iceland this past summer and fell in love with it. I hoped that reading a book set there would help me relive some of that awe and wonder. Sadly, this book did not achieve that goal for me.
Although Rachel does visit many of the places I did: Geysir, Gulfoss, Reykjavik, Blue and Secret Lagoons, mostly these amazing places are just mentioned without much description. No awe. No wonder. Just, Rachel was there and did such and so. When there is a description, it doesn't match my own experience of those places, and I wondered if the author had ever seen the places she was writing about.
I *did* learn a lot about what goes into opening a retail store, though. Having never worked in retail, I found that very interesting.
I was less enthralled with the romance. Jonas seemed like a bland, cookie-cutter love interest. He is clean-cut, good-hearted, and always says exactly the right thing. Everything good, but just a little too perfect. And it was just a little too convenient that the first person she meets getting off the plane in Iceland is her new love interest.
***There might be some spoilers in the next couple paragraphs, so stop here if you don't want to read them. ***
Rachel was upset that Adam was cheating on her, but wasn't she cheating on him, too? Adam kissed another girl in a bar, but she kissed another man in a bed. Why is his a crime and hers isn't?
And I've never been a fan of the only-one-bed thing. Do you know how utterly creepy that would be if it *wasn't* a guy she liked? Gross!! I also despise the "we only have a few days together before we have to say goodbye forever, so we should definitely have sex now" thing. I find it to be more selfish than romantic, though I do understand there are differing opinions on this, and that's fine. It's just not my idea of romance.
So, while this book is fine, and there's nothing objectively wrong with it, it wasn't for me.
Although Rachel does visit many of the places I did: Geysir, Gulfoss, Reykjavik, Blue and Secret Lagoons, mostly these amazing places are just mentioned without much description. No awe. No wonder. Just, Rachel was there and did such and so. When there is a description, it doesn't match my own experience of those places, and I wondered if the author had ever seen the places she was writing about.
I *did* learn a lot about what goes into opening a retail store, though. Having never worked in retail, I found that very interesting.
I was less enthralled with the romance. Jonas seemed like a bland, cookie-cutter love interest. He is clean-cut, good-hearted, and always says exactly the right thing. Everything good, but just a little too perfect. And it was just a little too convenient that the first person she meets getting off the plane in Iceland is her new love interest.
***There might be some spoilers in the next couple paragraphs, so stop here if you don't want to read them. ***
Rachel was upset that Adam was cheating on her, but wasn't she cheating on him, too? Adam kissed another girl in a bar, but she kissed another man in a bed. Why is his a crime and hers isn't?
And I've never been a fan of the only-one-bed thing. Do you know how utterly creepy that would be if it *wasn't* a guy she liked? Gross!! I also despise the "we only have a few days together before we have to say goodbye forever, so we should definitely have sex now" thing. I find it to be more selfish than romantic, though I do understand there are differing opinions on this, and that's fine. It's just not my idea of romance.
So, while this book is fine, and there's nothing objectively wrong with it, it wasn't for me.
September 30, 2021
In February 2020, before the world shut down, I was lucky enough to visit Iceland with my family. This book is set in Reykjavik also in February, so reading this book was like a wee trip down memory lane.
Snug in Iceland is a clever title as the main character, Rachel, works for a company called Snug and they are opening a store in Reykjavik. With her relationship with Adam seeming a bit stale, she heads off for a few weeks to oversee the stocking and opening of the shop. That was actually really interesting to read about. I didn't know much about what happens before a shop opens. With its blankets, cushions, candles and so on, it definitely lived up to its name of Snug and I'd need to keep my daughters well away from that shop!
What I so enjoyed about this book was reading about all the places I had visited last year from the town of Reykjavik itself to the Blue Lagoon, Geysir and Gulfoss. It really made me want to go back again. Victoria Walker describes the town so well that I can imagine anyone reading the book will want to book themselves a trip to Iceland as soon as possible to experience it for themselves. I think I recognised a coffee shop we visited which was also a bookshop. Somehow though, we didn't visit Rachel's regular haunt of Te & Kaffi so obviously I need to go there when we go back!
There is the romance element of the book too. As I mentioned, Rachel's relationship with Adam seems to be at a bit of a dead end, although perhaps a weekend visit to see her might rekindle the spark. However, there are also sparks of attraction flying between Rachel and handsome tour guide Jonas and when a Northern Lights sightseeing trip sees them stranded in a snowstorm, who knows what might happen!
I really enjoyed my virtual trip to Iceland in the company of Rachel and Jonas. This is a perfect book to curl up with on chilly, dark nights. So get yourself all cosy with a blanket, hot drink and some candles, create that snug ambience and enjoy this heart-warming romance in a cold climate.
Snug in Iceland is a clever title as the main character, Rachel, works for a company called Snug and they are opening a store in Reykjavik. With her relationship with Adam seeming a bit stale, she heads off for a few weeks to oversee the stocking and opening of the shop. That was actually really interesting to read about. I didn't know much about what happens before a shop opens. With its blankets, cushions, candles and so on, it definitely lived up to its name of Snug and I'd need to keep my daughters well away from that shop!
What I so enjoyed about this book was reading about all the places I had visited last year from the town of Reykjavik itself to the Blue Lagoon, Geysir and Gulfoss. It really made me want to go back again. Victoria Walker describes the town so well that I can imagine anyone reading the book will want to book themselves a trip to Iceland as soon as possible to experience it for themselves. I think I recognised a coffee shop we visited which was also a bookshop. Somehow though, we didn't visit Rachel's regular haunt of Te & Kaffi so obviously I need to go there when we go back!
There is the romance element of the book too. As I mentioned, Rachel's relationship with Adam seems to be at a bit of a dead end, although perhaps a weekend visit to see her might rekindle the spark. However, there are also sparks of attraction flying between Rachel and handsome tour guide Jonas and when a Northern Lights sightseeing trip sees them stranded in a snowstorm, who knows what might happen!
I really enjoyed my virtual trip to Iceland in the company of Rachel and Jonas. This is a perfect book to curl up with on chilly, dark nights. So get yourself all cosy with a blanket, hot drink and some candles, create that snug ambience and enjoy this heart-warming romance in a cold climate.
September 26, 2021
I loved this book and it really transported me straight to Reykjavik, a place that is most definitely up there on my bucket list to travel to one day now. Even if you don't get the chance to see the northern lights, all of the natural pools and lagoons sound absolutely amazing. I would have to go during winter though when its cold and snowy as I'd really love to experience that (although maybe I won't be saying that at the time).
Rachel is a merchandiser for a company called snug (aka the best sounding shop ever) which is described as a craft market inside a shop... It's full of handmade treasures from local suppliers and small businesses and just sounds like a dream! It reminds me slightly of Flying Tiger shops, with just all sorts of random and unique bits and bobs inside.
As soon as Rachel steps off the plane and meets Jonas you can feel that something is going to simmer between them. There's that bubbling under the surface that you know could develop into something beautiful if only the circumstances were different. Adam on the other hand was not my favourite... I was definitely on the side of Rachel's bestie, Anna, here and would have definitely done the same if I was in her boots.
I loved the friendships that Rachel was able to make while she was in Reykjavic, especially with Gudrun as it feels like they just clicked, a friendship that will always be there despite the miles between them. The book ends with a few questions about what happens next, Rachel has a few ideas and I so wanted to know what they were, I've got my suspicions but she really could go in any direction. I'm just hoping we get to hear a bit more from Rachel in the not too distant future?! (Please say yes Victoria)
Rachel is a merchandiser for a company called snug (aka the best sounding shop ever) which is described as a craft market inside a shop... It's full of handmade treasures from local suppliers and small businesses and just sounds like a dream! It reminds me slightly of Flying Tiger shops, with just all sorts of random and unique bits and bobs inside.
As soon as Rachel steps off the plane and meets Jonas you can feel that something is going to simmer between them. There's that bubbling under the surface that you know could develop into something beautiful if only the circumstances were different. Adam on the other hand was not my favourite... I was definitely on the side of Rachel's bestie, Anna, here and would have definitely done the same if I was in her boots.
I loved the friendships that Rachel was able to make while she was in Reykjavic, especially with Gudrun as it feels like they just clicked, a friendship that will always be there despite the miles between them. The book ends with a few questions about what happens next, Rachel has a few ideas and I so wanted to know what they were, I've got my suspicions but she really could go in any direction. I'm just hoping we get to hear a bit more from Rachel in the not too distant future?! (Please say yes Victoria)
October 13, 2021
Another cute wintery read! I know, I know, it's a little early but hey! Let's just move!
This story is about Rachel who works for a company called Snug and she gets the opportunity to open a new store in Iceland. This of course means leaving behind her boyfriend Adam.
I won't go into too many details as of course I don't want to ruin it for you. Rachel goes to Iceland and starts looking at her life differently. Can she go back to normal?
I loved reading all about the scenery in this book! It was really amazing how it was all explained so I could visualise it all.
Some choices made in the book I didn't agree with but it was still a very good read and one I would recommend!
This story is about Rachel who works for a company called Snug and she gets the opportunity to open a new store in Iceland. This of course means leaving behind her boyfriend Adam.
I won't go into too many details as of course I don't want to ruin it for you. Rachel goes to Iceland and starts looking at her life differently. Can she go back to normal?
I loved reading all about the scenery in this book! It was really amazing how it was all explained so I could visualise it all.
Some choices made in the book I didn't agree with but it was still a very good read and one I would recommend!
December 22, 2023
A Fluffy Sweet Trip through Iceland
So with what is going on in Sylingafell right now I wanted to read a book set in Iceland. And since it is almost Christmas I had thought this one would be perfect. Granted, its not exactly a Christmas story but its set in a cold climate with snow and glaciers. Plus the front cover of the book has a sort of Christmas look? Cute with snowflakes....
I would term this a light romance. Its very light and fluffy. Which is perfect in my opinion. Its not steamy or heavy on the naughty scenes if you know what I mean?
So why did I love this book? And note is not the type of thing that I normally read. But yet as soon as I started it I was unable to put it down. I was quite literally hooked! Part of it is because I found myself caught up in Rachel's life but more importantly I absolutely LOVED the descriptions of Iceland in here. Basically the book provided exactly what I was hoping it would. Once Rachel landed in Iceland she took these little trips with her tour guide Jonas. And through the book I got to explore such exotic places as frozen glaciers, ice caves, hot pools to soak in (which are volcanic in nature of course - personally I would be very Leary of getting in that water!!), learn an their foods and a few other cool places. I also learned about the opera house in Reykjavik and once I knew its name I could Google it to see the picture of it. So these were the things I loved. Little adventures. Learning about the land and the people and a few terms too.
The story itself was great too.But has a great message in it too. Rachel was stuck in a rather dead relationship but she didn't really know that. You get stuck in this daily grind so you are blind to these things. And it takes a big change to wake you up so you realize the truth. And facing the ugly truth can be hard. It takes bravery. So yes, Rachel goes through a character arc as she wakes up.
I realize that part of the story was indeed very predictable. But I enjoyed it immensely anyway. It was fun.
Sometimes you just need to be brave and change your life. Like Rachel.
And even more important get rid of negative people who do n appreciate you.
Go out and live. Go see stuff. Try stuff. Take the risk.
Those things is what the story is about.
A fast quick read. Perfect for the holiday.
And personally, I would be avoiding those thermal pools! But that's me. I just don't trust volcanoes that much.
So with what is going on in Sylingafell right now I wanted to read a book set in Iceland. And since it is almost Christmas I had thought this one would be perfect. Granted, its not exactly a Christmas story but its set in a cold climate with snow and glaciers. Plus the front cover of the book has a sort of Christmas look? Cute with snowflakes....
I would term this a light romance. Its very light and fluffy. Which is perfect in my opinion. Its not steamy or heavy on the naughty scenes if you know what I mean?
So why did I love this book? And note is not the type of thing that I normally read. But yet as soon as I started it I was unable to put it down. I was quite literally hooked! Part of it is because I found myself caught up in Rachel's life but more importantly I absolutely LOVED the descriptions of Iceland in here. Basically the book provided exactly what I was hoping it would. Once Rachel landed in Iceland she took these little trips with her tour guide Jonas. And through the book I got to explore such exotic places as frozen glaciers, ice caves, hot pools to soak in (which are volcanic in nature of course - personally I would be very Leary of getting in that water!!), learn an their foods and a few other cool places. I also learned about the opera house in Reykjavik and once I knew its name I could Google it to see the picture of it. So these were the things I loved. Little adventures. Learning about the land and the people and a few terms too.
The story itself was great too.But has a great message in it too. Rachel was stuck in a rather dead relationship but she didn't really know that. You get stuck in this daily grind so you are blind to these things. And it takes a big change to wake you up so you realize the truth. And facing the ugly truth can be hard. It takes bravery. So yes, Rachel goes through a character arc as she wakes up.
I realize that part of the story was indeed very predictable. But I enjoyed it immensely anyway. It was fun.
Sometimes you just need to be brave and change your life. Like Rachel.
And even more important get rid of negative people who do n appreciate you.
Go out and live. Go see stuff. Try stuff. Take the risk.
Those things is what the story is about.
A fast quick read. Perfect for the holiday.
And personally, I would be avoiding those thermal pools! But that's me. I just don't trust volcanoes that much.
October 19, 2021
Rachel Richards loves her job. She also loves her boyfriend, Adam. But she's feeling more than a little neglected, so when she is offered the opportunity to oversee the setting up of a new store for her company Snug, she jumps at the chance! Even better is that the new store is in Iceland! Excited to see a new city, and with high hopes that a little time apart will shake up her relationship with Adam, Rachel throws herself into life in Reykjavik. With the help of Icelandic tour guide Jonas, Rachel's eyes are truly opened to a new way of life, forcing her to really think about what she wants from life. With Adam really lacking in the boyfriend department, maybe the handsome Jonas and her new surroundings will show Rachel that she needs a new direction for her life.
I was so excited to read this novel - Reykjavik and Iceland are at the top of my travel list (if I ever manage to get back on a plane - pandemics are the worst!), so I was keen to soak up every part of this novel in the hope that Victoria Walker would be able to transport me there. I am pleased to confirm that she succeeded. Her description of Reykjavik and its surrounding area were just beautiful. I wanted to be on the tours with Rachel as she explored the beauty of Iceland (I'd have also quite liked to have been with her tour guide - Jonas sounds delicious!)
The story though really was lovely. It was nice to follow a female character who was driven - rather than giving up the amazing opportunity in order to please her boyfriend, she grabbed it with both hands and really followed it through. Of course there is romance in this novel, but I really enjoyed how this was actually a novel about a woman looking for something more from her life, and actually making it happen for herself.
I am more than happy to recommend this novel - if the beautiful cover doesn't draw you in, then I hope my review has!
I was so excited to read this novel - Reykjavik and Iceland are at the top of my travel list (if I ever manage to get back on a plane - pandemics are the worst!), so I was keen to soak up every part of this novel in the hope that Victoria Walker would be able to transport me there. I am pleased to confirm that she succeeded. Her description of Reykjavik and its surrounding area were just beautiful. I wanted to be on the tours with Rachel as she explored the beauty of Iceland (I'd have also quite liked to have been with her tour guide - Jonas sounds delicious!)
The story though really was lovely. It was nice to follow a female character who was driven - rather than giving up the amazing opportunity in order to please her boyfriend, she grabbed it with both hands and really followed it through. Of course there is romance in this novel, but I really enjoyed how this was actually a novel about a woman looking for something more from her life, and actually making it happen for herself.
I am more than happy to recommend this novel - if the beautiful cover doesn't draw you in, then I hope my review has!
Read
October 1, 2021This book was delightfully cozy and fun to read.
On the surface Rachel is having a successful life. She has a handsome boyfriend and just got a big promotion. However, her success is starting to show cracks in her relationship. Rachel lands in Iceland knowing that she really needs to think about making some changes in her life. She doesn't realize that her time there is going to push her in directions that she wasn't sure she was ready for.
Iceland is a place that I've always wanted to explore and it was fun to see it through her eyes as she settled in for her stay. Her relationships with her new coworkers and potential love interest were well done. I would definitely read more by this author.
Victoria Walker lives in the Malvern Hills with her husband and two teenage children. She is an avid reader of contemporary romance but tempers this addiction by being a member of a book club where she is often surprised by her enjoyment of other genres. She also loves sewing and knitting and Scandinavian dramas.
This review was originally posted on Based On A True Story
October 7, 2021
Just look at the cover! It is absolutely stunning and totally makes me want to go there!
It didn’t take long to get into Rachel’s story. Right from the start I was rooting for her to find herself and what she really wants and experience something new by taking on this new role which takes her to Iceland to oversee the opening of a new Snug store. The story is not just a romance story, but also a lot about Iceland and all it’s glory and I can honestly say, having read this book I am now very keen to go and explore this beautiful country.
What to expect:
✅ absolutely picture perfect scenery in Iceland making it feel like they are in a Christmas movie
✅ a likeable main character Rachel
✅ a best friend (Anna) at home in the UK and a new friend (Gudrun) in Iceland, these woman to woman friendships add some more depth to the characters
✅ a boyfriend (Adam) back home who is far from perfect, who basically takes her for granted
✅ an Icelandic hunk (Jonas) as a tour guide
✅ typical Scandinavian foods and traditions… overal you just get a Nordic/Scandinavian “Hygge” feeling when reading this cozy book!
✅ a romance story including a renovation (the shop) and finding the beauty in small things, the winter version of “stop and smell the flowers”.
I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources and Victoria Walker for giving me this book in return for an honest review. My thoughts about this book are in no way influenced by the fact that it was a gift.
It didn’t take long to get into Rachel’s story. Right from the start I was rooting for her to find herself and what she really wants and experience something new by taking on this new role which takes her to Iceland to oversee the opening of a new Snug store. The story is not just a romance story, but also a lot about Iceland and all it’s glory and I can honestly say, having read this book I am now very keen to go and explore this beautiful country.
What to expect:
✅ absolutely picture perfect scenery in Iceland making it feel like they are in a Christmas movie
✅ a likeable main character Rachel
✅ a best friend (Anna) at home in the UK and a new friend (Gudrun) in Iceland, these woman to woman friendships add some more depth to the characters
✅ a boyfriend (Adam) back home who is far from perfect, who basically takes her for granted
✅ an Icelandic hunk (Jonas) as a tour guide
✅ typical Scandinavian foods and traditions… overal you just get a Nordic/Scandinavian “Hygge” feeling when reading this cozy book!
✅ a romance story including a renovation (the shop) and finding the beauty in small things, the winter version of “stop and smell the flowers”.
I would like to thank Rachel’s Random Resources and Victoria Walker for giving me this book in return for an honest review. My thoughts about this book are in no way influenced by the fact that it was a gift.
October 6, 2021
Well there is simply no way I was ever going to pass up the opportunity to read and review Snug in Iceland. Beautiful cover – check! Travel romance – check! Pure escapism – check!
I loved that this novel was set in Iceland. Not only have I never been but it’s not a common place in books I have read. I felt as though Rachel was my tour guide and being alongside her as she experienced everything for the first time made me appreciate how wonderful Iceland and Reykjavik is. I really want to visit.
I love the idea of the company Snug, setting up stores with small business concessions. Reminded me of Not on the High Street but in actual real life. It’s somewhere I would definitely shop and I loved the idea.
I enjoyed seeing Rachel evaluate her life. It was fairly clear from the beginning that things were not good or fair in her relationship with Adam. She was a sweet character with a lot of potential within her job and I was frustrated that she was being held back a little in several aspects of life. The sparks between Rachel and Jonas had me hooked and I love that style of romance novel where there is a bit of a love triangle.
This is such a cosy book with a beautiful setting and lovely characters. Warning though – it will make you want to visit Iceland!
I loved that this novel was set in Iceland. Not only have I never been but it’s not a common place in books I have read. I felt as though Rachel was my tour guide and being alongside her as she experienced everything for the first time made me appreciate how wonderful Iceland and Reykjavik is. I really want to visit.
I love the idea of the company Snug, setting up stores with small business concessions. Reminded me of Not on the High Street but in actual real life. It’s somewhere I would definitely shop and I loved the idea.
I enjoyed seeing Rachel evaluate her life. It was fairly clear from the beginning that things were not good or fair in her relationship with Adam. She was a sweet character with a lot of potential within her job and I was frustrated that she was being held back a little in several aspects of life. The sparks between Rachel and Jonas had me hooked and I love that style of romance novel where there is a bit of a love triangle.
This is such a cosy book with a beautiful setting and lovely characters. Warning though – it will make you want to visit Iceland!
October 5, 2021
Warning: this book is like a travel ad for Iceland and it's almost cruel, to make me yearn to visit at a time when it's so unlikely. The descriptions of glaciers, hot pools, and the Northern Lights through Rachel's eyes are just gorgeous. It's easy to see why she begins to doubt her life back in London, when this amazing place is right there. Especially as Jonas is the biggest sweetheart ever, compared to the distant Adam. The love-triangle angst did carry on for a little too long for my tastes though.
My favourite part was seeing Rachel find her feet doing a job she loved, exploring a new place, and making new friends. It reads almost like a second coming of age. Her job and her passion for it is described in loving detail, although I know very little about homewares.
The ending did feel a little abrupt - while it did end happily, I had a few questions left about how some parts would play out. I think an epilogue would've help to round this out. Overall this was a charming novel that made me fall in love with a place I've never been.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
My favourite part was seeing Rachel find her feet doing a job she loved, exploring a new place, and making new friends. It reads almost like a second coming of age. Her job and her passion for it is described in loving detail, although I know very little about homewares.
The ending did feel a little abrupt - while it did end happily, I had a few questions left about how some parts would play out. I think an epilogue would've help to round this out. Overall this was a charming novel that made me fall in love with a place I've never been.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own
August 11, 2025
This was a cute story, with a great plot. However, the editing left something to be very much desired. Although there were not really "spelling" errors (although one main character had his name spelled one form and then the next paragraph it was spelled differently), the issue is that the words were wrong. Instead of "brought" the book actually read as "bought". Every time a reader comes to one of these issues it pulls them right out of the story. I think most people can gloss over a couple little typos (no one is perfect!) but there MANY of these errors and it got worse near the end of the book.
I will definitely read more by this author but if you are a stickler for grammar, this is not the book for you.
I will definitely read more by this author but if you are a stickler for grammar, this is not the book for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews