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Holiday #3
The Fireworks
This is book #3 in the Holiday Series.
Aria Bancroft had been in love exactly one time. It didn’t go well, and ever since, she’s been floundering. Choosing sex over relationships and working as a freelance editor more to have something to do than anything else, worked for a time. But as her friends begin to couple off with their new girlfriends, Aria begins to wonder if she can ever feel that kind of love again.
London Carlson met a girl in high school and fell in love. After moving away, she tried to find that kind of connection with other women, but it was never the same. London focused on her friendships instead, and with two of those friends, she decided to open a bakery that happened to be in the same city where that long-lost love lived now.
It was July 4th, and Aria had just gotten back from Europe. She didn’t want to go to the annual fireworks display downtown, but her friends wouldn’t let her off the hook. Seeing the woman she’d only known as a teenager, shook Aria to her core, and she couldn’t believe the girl she’d once thought to be the love of her young life was standing right in front of her. Now that they’re both adults, can they put their past behind them and search for what could still be possible?
Books in this series:
Book #1 - The Writing on the Wall (Weston)
Book #2 - The Block Party (Talon)
Book #3 - The Fireworks (Aria)
Book #4 - The Sweet Escape (Eleanor)
Book #5 - The Misperception (Paisley)
Book #6 - The Wait Is Over (Scarlet)
Series Finale - What Happened After...
Aria Bancroft had been in love exactly one time. It didn’t go well, and ever since, she’s been floundering. Choosing sex over relationships and working as a freelance editor more to have something to do than anything else, worked for a time. But as her friends begin to couple off with their new girlfriends, Aria begins to wonder if she can ever feel that kind of love again.
London Carlson met a girl in high school and fell in love. After moving away, she tried to find that kind of connection with other women, but it was never the same. London focused on her friendships instead, and with two of those friends, she decided to open a bakery that happened to be in the same city where that long-lost love lived now.
It was July 4th, and Aria had just gotten back from Europe. She didn’t want to go to the annual fireworks display downtown, but her friends wouldn’t let her off the hook. Seeing the woman she’d only known as a teenager, shook Aria to her core, and she couldn’t believe the girl she’d once thought to be the love of her young life was standing right in front of her. Now that they’re both adults, can they put their past behind them and search for what could still be possible?
Books in this series:
Book #1 - The Writing on the Wall (Weston)
Book #2 - The Block Party (Talon)
Book #3 - The Fireworks (Aria)
Book #4 - The Sweet Escape (Eleanor)
Book #5 - The Misperception (Paisley)
Book #6 - The Wait Is Over (Scarlet)
Series Finale - What Happened After...
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2022
174 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Pyland
79 books820 followersNicole Pyland is a bestselling author of lesbian romance novels, including No After You, All the Love Songs, and the series like Chicago, San Francisco, Tahoe, Sports, Boston, and more. Since 2017, she’s published over 30 novels (not including her What Happened After shorts), and more books are on their way!
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 13, 2022
'ARC provided by The Author in exchange for a honest review'
**'Sometimes reality of the sort is way too complex and that's why storytelling gives it form and is purposeful...'
3.5stars!
'THE FIREWORKS' the 3rd book in the 'Holiday' series opens with this marathon of sex positions and readers will think that this is just another one of Ms.Pyland's superficial read, instead it goes deeper with some inner depth focusing on all things Aria. Her sudden decision to be intoxicatingly free of these prolonged one-night stands and free of having to jaunt to different continents juggling romance in multiple cities. We learn about the issues as to why she is the way that she is, her up-bringing, who her first love was in high school and why they fell out/separated. Now she has thing change of heart and wants what two of her close friends has -- settled and both (Weston & Talon) in committed relationships.
Crossing path with the first girl/woman that she fell in love and rekindled feelings brought to the forefront that decision of wanting to be in a committed relationship -- both (Aria & London) tentatively decide to become friends and keep in contact. Despite their past issues, each opened up about why things happened and seemed to experienced hard choices, regrets, fears, lust, pain, love and agony over those many years of not being in touch.
The gang (Weston, Talon, Eleanor, Paisley, Scarlet) does become engrossed in this new faze of Aria's life because it's shocking to see her finally in love. So they all give out their own advice and showed their support for her wanting to be with London. This is Aria's journey from being a notorious lothario to finally falling in Love.
Even thought this book #3 ended up being just an okay read to me, it's still a good series and this story is definitely readable because the content might be more to interested readers.
**'Sometimes reality of the sort is way too complex and that's why storytelling gives it form and is purposeful...'
3.5stars!
'THE FIREWORKS' the 3rd book in the 'Holiday' series opens with this marathon of sex positions and readers will think that this is just another one of Ms.Pyland's superficial read, instead it goes deeper with some inner depth focusing on all things Aria. Her sudden decision to be intoxicatingly free of these prolonged one-night stands and free of having to jaunt to different continents juggling romance in multiple cities. We learn about the issues as to why she is the way that she is, her up-bringing, who her first love was in high school and why they fell out/separated. Now she has thing change of heart and wants what two of her close friends has -- settled and both (Weston & Talon) in committed relationships.
Crossing path with the first girl/woman that she fell in love and rekindled feelings brought to the forefront that decision of wanting to be in a committed relationship -- both (Aria & London) tentatively decide to become friends and keep in contact. Despite their past issues, each opened up about why things happened and seemed to experienced hard choices, regrets, fears, lust, pain, love and agony over those many years of not being in touch.
The gang (Weston, Talon, Eleanor, Paisley, Scarlet) does become engrossed in this new faze of Aria's life because it's shocking to see her finally in love. So they all give out their own advice and showed their support for her wanting to be with London. This is Aria's journey from being a notorious lothario to finally falling in Love.
Even thought this book #3 ended up being just an okay read to me, it's still a good series and this story is definitely readable because the content might be more to interested readers.
June 18, 2022
The one who got away.
One of the reasons why I love this book is that Aria is my favourite character in the Holiday series. She's reticient but charming somehow and I really wanted to get to know what was underneath the wealthy casanova persona.
Actually even now, I'm not sure I fully understand Aria, but I definitely understand her better. This story isn't complicated and is in fact a rather pleasant read because at the start of this book, Aria is at the point where she's done sowing her wild oats and is ready for commitment. And the other main character, London, is nice and perfect for her. London was Aria's best friend at 15 years old, the love of her life and the one who got away. Okay, wait. To be accurate, Aria's the one who got away. Even though they haven't met in years, London has the ability to read Aria like nobody else does and the condensed version of what happens next is that Aria and London rehash memories, talk about where they stand with each other and decide to give it a try after some thinking through. Pyland writes it so well, opting to go with good communication as a foundation for their relationship, that I was drawn to their story and they were simply perfect as a couple.
As a sidenote, there are a few other things I want to point out that makes this story more awesome than it is. One is that I really like the way the couple deals with each other's romantic and sexual histories. There's a right amount of guilt, jealousy and understanding which are all realistic emotions that are discussed between them. The other is the way flashbacks are succintly and strategically used and I am pretty confident that even flashback-haters would have no issues with.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
One of the reasons why I love this book is that Aria is my favourite character in the Holiday series. She's reticient but charming somehow and I really wanted to get to know what was underneath the wealthy casanova persona.
Actually even now, I'm not sure I fully understand Aria, but I definitely understand her better. This story isn't complicated and is in fact a rather pleasant read because at the start of this book, Aria is at the point where she's done sowing her wild oats and is ready for commitment. And the other main character, London, is nice and perfect for her. London was Aria's best friend at 15 years old, the love of her life and the one who got away. Okay, wait. To be accurate, Aria's the one who got away. Even though they haven't met in years, London has the ability to read Aria like nobody else does and the condensed version of what happens next is that Aria and London rehash memories, talk about where they stand with each other and decide to give it a try after some thinking through. Pyland writes it so well, opting to go with good communication as a foundation for their relationship, that I was drawn to their story and they were simply perfect as a couple.
As a sidenote, there are a few other things I want to point out that makes this story more awesome than it is. One is that I really like the way the couple deals with each other's romantic and sexual histories. There's a right amount of guilt, jealousy and understanding which are all realistic emotions that are discussed between them. The other is the way flashbacks are succintly and strategically used and I am pretty confident that even flashback-haters would have no issues with.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2022
I finished this a month or two ago and put off writing a review because I had something profound to say. Probably something about Pyland making this work despite it being second chance with a long gap. I only remember the vague outline of events at this point and that I loved it a lot. I'll have to see if I can put this on a re-read status or something and review more fully if I do re-read it.
June 12, 2022
I always love the series that Nicole Pyland writes. I really enjoy each group and getting to revisit them as the series continues. Aria and London were are cute couple with a fun story. Their prior history made the book that much more interesting and I can't wait for the next with this group of friends. Pyland's books are always well written and entertaining and this one was no exception. The characters are lovable and I find myself wanting to reread the series each time a new one comes out to reengage with the crew. Can't wait for the next one!
June 12, 2022
Pyland’s holiday series are a set of fun books that tell the tales of a group of 6 friends and there stories start somewhere around a holiday. This third one is Aria’s story that starts on the 4th of July.
Aria is a character that has had my attention from the first book in this series because she seems lost, but lovely. No one can wish for a better friend. This book shows that as well, and while we get to know her a bit better I still feel like we’ve only scratched the surface of this wonderful character. She gets called out on her behaviour, sitting on the sidelines, not sharing much about herself and her feelings. But we don’t get to really see all of it. Her love interest is a blast from the past. London and Aria were friends when they were 15 going on 16 and they, or mostly London, broke both their hearts. I feel like we get to know way more about London than we do Aria. I think they are an excellent pairing, I like that London calls Aria out regularly and that Aria calms London down.
There are these sort of flashbacks in the book, and I don’t really like those, usually. I didn’t mind them in this book, they served a certain purpose, to help us understand their young love and their current behaviour. Somehow I just love all of it. Maybe it’s the baking, I just love baked goods.
In case you’re wondering if it’s a second chance romance, it isn’t. There wasn’t a romance when the were teens. It’s an easy romance with a little angst because of their (shared) past.
It’s a perfect summer read.
Aria is a character that has had my attention from the first book in this series because she seems lost, but lovely. No one can wish for a better friend. This book shows that as well, and while we get to know her a bit better I still feel like we’ve only scratched the surface of this wonderful character. She gets called out on her behaviour, sitting on the sidelines, not sharing much about herself and her feelings. But we don’t get to really see all of it. Her love interest is a blast from the past. London and Aria were friends when they were 15 going on 16 and they, or mostly London, broke both their hearts. I feel like we get to know way more about London than we do Aria. I think they are an excellent pairing, I like that London calls Aria out regularly and that Aria calms London down.
There are these sort of flashbacks in the book, and I don’t really like those, usually. I didn’t mind them in this book, they served a certain purpose, to help us understand their young love and their current behaviour. Somehow I just love all of it. Maybe it’s the baking, I just love baked goods.
In case you’re wondering if it’s a second chance romance, it isn’t. There wasn’t a romance when the were teens. It’s an easy romance with a little angst because of their (shared) past.
It’s a perfect summer read.
June 16, 2022
Aria fell in love with London at 15 only to have her heart broken. London was afraid to face her feelings and lose the only parent she had left. A chance meeting reunites them and it’s like they were never apart. A truly beautiful story about first love and second chances. This is an awesome series so far.
June 23, 2022
The Fireworks is book 3 in Nicole Pyland’s Holiday Series and continues in the same tradition as the first two involving a special holiday event. This story is set around a chance encounter at a fourth of July fireworks display.
It’s Aria’s turn to find the love of her life, and luckily for her, she finds it in the form of the very first woman she ever loved – the one that got away. After years of meeting women and only allowing herself to engage in casual, no strings attached sex, constant travel and only working when she felt like it, Aria decides it is time to change her life. She can see the effects falling in love is having on her friends, and she craves a piece of her own happiness and contentment in the idea of settling down.
London is making changes of her own, the co-owner of a new bakery, she and two friends have moved to the city to build their dream business. Her plans revolve around keeping herself afloat until the bakery takes off and stopping her best friends from spending the money they have yet to earn, on upgrades they don’t really need.
Aria and London never expected to see each other again, and when they do, neither wants to give the other a chance to disappear. They cling desperately to the love that is still between them while mending broken hearts, and building new memories. Together they begin to grow as individuals and a possible couple.
Nicole Pyland writes incredible dialogue and creates realistic characters whose personal growth is evident throughout each book written. We continue to get glimpses into other characters from within the series and friendship circles continue to thrive. If you haven’t read the first two books in the series, start there, and then check The Fireworks out. It’s a great addition to the series.
It’s Aria’s turn to find the love of her life, and luckily for her, she finds it in the form of the very first woman she ever loved – the one that got away. After years of meeting women and only allowing herself to engage in casual, no strings attached sex, constant travel and only working when she felt like it, Aria decides it is time to change her life. She can see the effects falling in love is having on her friends, and she craves a piece of her own happiness and contentment in the idea of settling down.
London is making changes of her own, the co-owner of a new bakery, she and two friends have moved to the city to build their dream business. Her plans revolve around keeping herself afloat until the bakery takes off and stopping her best friends from spending the money they have yet to earn, on upgrades they don’t really need.
Aria and London never expected to see each other again, and when they do, neither wants to give the other a chance to disappear. They cling desperately to the love that is still between them while mending broken hearts, and building new memories. Together they begin to grow as individuals and a possible couple.
Nicole Pyland writes incredible dialogue and creates realistic characters whose personal growth is evident throughout each book written. We continue to get glimpses into other characters from within the series and friendship circles continue to thrive. If you haven’t read the first two books in the series, start there, and then check The Fireworks out. It’s a great addition to the series.
June 7, 2023
This story is a bit complex, just a tiny bit.
Aria fell in love when she was 15 to a girl her same age that was the daughter of military service member. London knew how she felt but also was aware that her father didn’t accept same sex relationships so to disregard and minimize her feelings was easier for her until she hurt someone she cared about.
About 12 years later and many experiences, Aria and London cross each other. The sparks are there but also some prejudices from close people. They overcome a lot and we get a HEA.
I'm not a big fan of flashbacks and this book has several.
Aria fell in love when she was 15 to a girl her same age that was the daughter of military service member. London knew how she felt but also was aware that her father didn’t accept same sex relationships so to disregard and minimize her feelings was easier for her until she hurt someone she cared about.
About 12 years later and many experiences, Aria and London cross each other. The sparks are there but also some prejudices from close people. They overcome a lot and we get a HEA.
I'm not a big fan of flashbacks and this book has several.
June 25, 2022
Book 3 of the Holiday series brings forward Aria’s story. We know from the previous 2 books that Aria is rich enough not to hold a 9-5, loves to travel and has ladies in every port. And The Fireworks starts just like that, with Aria enjoying her time in Tuscany.
Back home she attends a 4th of July event with her friends when she runs into her first love, the girl who broke her heart in highschool - London. As Aria and London reconnect they have to decide if the way their youth relationship ended and how the past years developed can stop them from getting a second chance. This second chance romance is my favourite one from the series, just because it’s such a sweet story and both MC are so likeable.
Back home she attends a 4th of July event with her friends when she runs into her first love, the girl who broke her heart in highschool - London. As Aria and London reconnect they have to decide if the way their youth relationship ended and how the past years developed can stop them from getting a second chance. This second chance romance is my favourite one from the series, just because it’s such a sweet story and both MC are so likeable.
July 15, 2022
Second chance on steroids!
The storytelling in this work by Nicole has blown me away. The use of flashbacks to give us her character’s backstories is so well done that I couldn’t wait to read more of them. Aria and London’s past plays such a huge part in this book and Nicole leads us back to their teenage days to show the blossoming love. A flame of love that we find has not died and can be fanned back to life, if one can find a way to forgive the other.
The buildup to their first kiss is the perfect tease that kept me reading, impatiently waiting for that moment. Nicole writes such touching love scenes, they will have you squirming in your seat.
This third book is outstanding and I think you will find it hard to put down once you start reading. Open this one early in the day or it will keep you up well into the night. Well done, Nicole!
The storytelling in this work by Nicole has blown me away. The use of flashbacks to give us her character’s backstories is so well done that I couldn’t wait to read more of them. Aria and London’s past plays such a huge part in this book and Nicole leads us back to their teenage days to show the blossoming love. A flame of love that we find has not died and can be fanned back to life, if one can find a way to forgive the other.
The buildup to their first kiss is the perfect tease that kept me reading, impatiently waiting for that moment. Nicole writes such touching love scenes, they will have you squirming in your seat.
This third book is outstanding and I think you will find it hard to put down once you start reading. Open this one early in the day or it will keep you up well into the night. Well done, Nicole!
November 11, 2022
Great story!
Couldn't put this one down, which was kind of a surprise for me because I hadn't found Aria a very likable character in first two books of the series, but I definitely fell in love with her here. Aria and London are one of my favorite pairings from Pyland, and I really enjoyed them reconnecting and rekindling the love they never really lost ❤
Couldn't put this one down, which was kind of a surprise for me because I hadn't found Aria a very likable character in first two books of the series, but I definitely fell in love with her here. Aria and London are one of my favorite pairings from Pyland, and I really enjoyed them reconnecting and rekindling the love they never really lost ❤
November 1, 2024
Finally, I’m reading a series in order. Of the three I’ve read, Fireworks is head and shoulders above the first two in this series. I’m going to use an audible credit (if there’s an audio available) and I reread this one.
The burn between London & Aria is delicious. The spice is REAL and not over the top ridiculous. Talon & Emerson were so non-realistic; it was so dumb, I had to make a TikTok about it. London and Aria were a breath of fresh air in this series. There was pining, heart, emotion, and communication growth. Their instalove had zero ick and it totally and completely made sense.
There is still the component of Nicole Pyland putting in exact scenes from the other books and I think that’s her schtick. I am slowly getting over that and she did a much better job in this book. This one also used flashbacks, which has only been my jam in one other book (Then & Now by the goddess that is Monica McCallan), but the flashbacks totally worked in this book.
I do think this one could be read as a stand-alone, just ignore the friend group.
The burn between London & Aria is delicious. The spice is REAL and not over the top ridiculous. Talon & Emerson were so non-realistic; it was so dumb, I had to make a TikTok about it. London and Aria were a breath of fresh air in this series. There was pining, heart, emotion, and communication growth. Their instalove had zero ick and it totally and completely made sense.
There is still the component of Nicole Pyland putting in exact scenes from the other books and I think that’s her schtick. I am slowly getting over that and she did a much better job in this book. This one also used flashbacks, which has only been my jam in one other book (Then & Now by the goddess that is Monica McCallan), but the flashbacks totally worked in this book.
I do think this one could be read as a stand-alone, just ignore the friend group.
June 6, 2025
This third book in the Holiday series is about Aria. She meets London at a 4th of july fireworks festival. They were friends in highschool for about a half year until London moved away when she just turned 16. We get some small flashbacks about that time to reveal how they were together as teenagers. I liked that. Again a very nice story in this series. 4+⭐️
June 25, 2022
(Review as part of Arc)
The Fireworks is the 3rd book in Nicole Pyland's new Holiday series. This one centers around Aria and London. These two women meet and fell in love as child but circumstances tore them apart. Well London seemed to take the loss a little better, Aria sort of withdrew into herself- relying on meaningless sex to keep her company. Now it's 12 years later and these two are reunited. They both have to try and overcome the past if they are ever going to have a future together.
Aria and London are my favorite couple of this series so far.
What I liked about this story is that it really opens Aria's character up. In the first two books, you meet her and think that she's just the rich girl with no responsibilities or cares. She's almost like a party girl and that led to me not really caring for her. But this book changes that. Aria is still a rich girl but shes a rich girl doing all that she can to protect her heart. She does care about things, mostly those she loves and she's fiercely loyal.
London was a new character but I honestly saw a lot of myself in her. It was the first time I've ever read a story and truly connected to a character. I felt her pain, guilt, and longing as if they were my own. Also her obsession with the bakery since I myself went to culinary school and am a baker lol.
This story was a great reunion of old lovers mixed with friends to lovers. I enjoyed the flashbacks to their childhood and how each woman faught against the past. This was a believable couple that I think will go far. I can't wait to read the What Happens After to see how these two are doing.
The Fireworks is the 3rd book in Nicole Pyland's new Holiday series. This one centers around Aria and London. These two women meet and fell in love as child but circumstances tore them apart. Well London seemed to take the loss a little better, Aria sort of withdrew into herself- relying on meaningless sex to keep her company. Now it's 12 years later and these two are reunited. They both have to try and overcome the past if they are ever going to have a future together.
Aria and London are my favorite couple of this series so far.
What I liked about this story is that it really opens Aria's character up. In the first two books, you meet her and think that she's just the rich girl with no responsibilities or cares. She's almost like a party girl and that led to me not really caring for her. But this book changes that. Aria is still a rich girl but shes a rich girl doing all that she can to protect her heart. She does care about things, mostly those she loves and she's fiercely loyal.
London was a new character but I honestly saw a lot of myself in her. It was the first time I've ever read a story and truly connected to a character. I felt her pain, guilt, and longing as if they were my own. Also her obsession with the bakery since I myself went to culinary school and am a baker lol.
This story was a great reunion of old lovers mixed with friends to lovers. I enjoyed the flashbacks to their childhood and how each woman faught against the past. This was a believable couple that I think will go far. I can't wait to read the What Happens After to see how these two are doing.
June 9, 2022
I absolutely loved this book!!
I love an Aria character and especially how Pyland writes it, Jamie was a firm favourite of mine for awhile now!! Aria is as deep as the ocean, always being present with her but never truly sharing all of her emotions with them!! She appears free spirited and potentially a little cold towards relationships, but it’s all just a mask covering up old wounds! She floats through life, and women, but never really experiences a deeper sense of being!
London needed some time to find the courage to live her authentic self! She was existing but never really giving her heart to anyone, because she had already given it away! She through herself into working in a job she loved and took fulfillment in that! I found London was a surprising character, I didn’t expect her to be as direct or forward as she is, but I did really enjoy it!
The relationship felt authentic to me and I was immersed in the story immediately!! The friendships in the background are also very sweet and I love the glimpses of earlier in series couples current relationships!!
I struggled to put the book down and only did for sleep!! I can’t wait for the next one already!!!
This series is turning out to be my favourite one of Pyland’s to date!!!
I love an Aria character and especially how Pyland writes it, Jamie was a firm favourite of mine for awhile now!! Aria is as deep as the ocean, always being present with her but never truly sharing all of her emotions with them!! She appears free spirited and potentially a little cold towards relationships, but it’s all just a mask covering up old wounds! She floats through life, and women, but never really experiences a deeper sense of being!
London needed some time to find the courage to live her authentic self! She was existing but never really giving her heart to anyone, because she had already given it away! She through herself into working in a job she loved and took fulfillment in that! I found London was a surprising character, I didn’t expect her to be as direct or forward as she is, but I did really enjoy it!
The relationship felt authentic to me and I was immersed in the story immediately!! The friendships in the background are also very sweet and I love the glimpses of earlier in series couples current relationships!!
I struggled to put the book down and only did for sleep!! I can’t wait for the next one already!!!
This series is turning out to be my favourite one of Pyland’s to date!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2022
A second chance with your first love.
In the third book of the Holiday series, we get a better understanding of Aria and why she is the way she is with her string of friends with benefits and one-night stands. The heartbreak she experienced with London in high school did a number on her and made her lose trust in finding love. With London re-entering Aria's life, I loved witnessing Aria's growth and how she took a risk and opened her heart again to find her HEA.
I loved the resilience of London and how she absolutely refused to let Aria slip away again. Their connection felt magnetic, especially in the way London was able to read Aria's fears and doubts and worked hard at breaking down those barriers.
I've always been a fan of second chances with your first love stories, and it's another well-written book by Nicole Pyland. This is my favorite story of the series so far and I cannot wait for the other books coming out later this year. I'm especially excited to learn more about Scarlet's character!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
In the third book of the Holiday series, we get a better understanding of Aria and why she is the way she is with her string of friends with benefits and one-night stands. The heartbreak she experienced with London in high school did a number on her and made her lose trust in finding love. With London re-entering Aria's life, I loved witnessing Aria's growth and how she took a risk and opened her heart again to find her HEA.
I loved the resilience of London and how she absolutely refused to let Aria slip away again. Their connection felt magnetic, especially in the way London was able to read Aria's fears and doubts and worked hard at breaking down those barriers.
I've always been a fan of second chances with your first love stories, and it's another well-written book by Nicole Pyland. This is my favorite story of the series so far and I cannot wait for the other books coming out later this year. I'm especially excited to learn more about Scarlet's character!
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2022
I’ve been waiting to read more about Aria within this series and Pyland delivers a heartwarming story of young love that falls apart but comes back together in adulthood. It’s a classic story of “the one who got away” but it’s one of my favourite ones I’ve read so far.
I really enjoyed how she wrote the current relationship of Aria and London as I felt that there was the right amount of flashbacks to their childhood relationship along with navigating their current one. The other aspect I felt was well written was that there was a lot of communication before they decided to give the relationship a second try. They both realize that the other person is the right one for them but they still have issues to deal with from the past before they decide to try again.
The side characters are also fun bunch and I’m really hoping we get to see some of them reoccurring in this series (I see one is coming for book #4 of this series) and also maybe one couple in their own standalone book.
***ARC generously provided by the author for an honest review***
I really enjoyed how she wrote the current relationship of Aria and London as I felt that there was the right amount of flashbacks to their childhood relationship along with navigating their current one. The other aspect I felt was well written was that there was a lot of communication before they decided to give the relationship a second try. They both realize that the other person is the right one for them but they still have issues to deal with from the past before they decide to try again.
The side characters are also fun bunch and I’m really hoping we get to see some of them reoccurring in this series (I see one is coming for book #4 of this series) and also maybe one couple in their own standalone book.
***ARC generously provided by the author for an honest review***
June 25, 2022
Will Read Again!
"The Fireworks" was another great book by Nicole Pyland. While it was not my favourite in this series, that honour belongs to "The Block Party", I still loved this book and it's one I will definitely read again.
Aria and London's story of a second chance at love with the one that got away, shows how sometime you really can find the love of your life as a teenager. It may just take time for it to work out. I found that the flashbacks throughout the story really enhanced the storyline. We got the explanation of why Aria is so guarded and always shied-away from anything longer then one night stands or no strings. They also showed how tough a decision London had as a teenager to turn down Aria when it was the last thing she wanted to do. I was happy to see that as much as the two of them knew the other was their "one", they still took their time and made sure to work on communication.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series. So far this series is turning into one of my favourites!
"The Fireworks" was another great book by Nicole Pyland. While it was not my favourite in this series, that honour belongs to "The Block Party", I still loved this book and it's one I will definitely read again.
Aria and London's story of a second chance at love with the one that got away, shows how sometime you really can find the love of your life as a teenager. It may just take time for it to work out. I found that the flashbacks throughout the story really enhanced the storyline. We got the explanation of why Aria is so guarded and always shied-away from anything longer then one night stands or no strings. They also showed how tough a decision London had as a teenager to turn down Aria when it was the last thing she wanted to do. I was happy to see that as much as the two of them knew the other was their "one", they still took their time and made sure to work on communication.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series. So far this series is turning into one of my favourites!
June 30, 2022
There are some books that the story is so well-written that draw me in so deeply that I read them
over and over again. The Fireworks will be added to this collection. The characters are phenomenal. The in-depth emotions of each character paved a way to empathy, understanding, connection and compassion.
In this installment of the series we get to see previous characters and their friendships with each-other. It is something that I truly admire and love about this author. She is able to capture such depth in individual characters for their stories shared throughout the series and weave that throughout the remainder of the series.
If you are looking for a great read that is filled with so much and truly runs the gamut of the human experience from being teenagers exploring self-discovery to adults stepping into their authenticity and having life bring them back together to have their happily ever after. This book is for you. I am over the moon excited for the next installment to learn more about the stories of these characters in this series.
over and over again. The Fireworks will be added to this collection. The characters are phenomenal. The in-depth emotions of each character paved a way to empathy, understanding, connection and compassion.
In this installment of the series we get to see previous characters and their friendships with each-other. It is something that I truly admire and love about this author. She is able to capture such depth in individual characters for their stories shared throughout the series and weave that throughout the remainder of the series.
If you are looking for a great read that is filled with so much and truly runs the gamut of the human experience from being teenagers exploring self-discovery to adults stepping into their authenticity and having life bring them back together to have their happily ever after. This book is for you. I am over the moon excited for the next installment to learn more about the stories of these characters in this series.
June 24, 2022
The Holiday series follows a group of college friends now in their late 20’s.
The third story, The Fireworks, focuses on Aria; previously identified as rich, somewhat unambitious, commitment phobic and fiercely loyal to her friends.
Aria unexpectedly reconnects with a lost love from her early high school days. Pyland masterfully moves between present day and their teen years, allowing the flashbacks to enhance the current story. Excellent technique.
I greatly appreciate the quality of Pyland’s writing. With varied sentence structure and perfect grammar, I’m never distracted by the writing and can focus on the story. Not always the case with Lesfic. Plus, she knows how to write a steamy love scene.
I love getting to know the women from the Holiday series. I appreciate revisiting characters from previous books, while also getting to know a new person a little better each time.
Looking forward to spending more time with Scarlet, Ellie and Paisley soon.
The third story, The Fireworks, focuses on Aria; previously identified as rich, somewhat unambitious, commitment phobic and fiercely loyal to her friends.
Aria unexpectedly reconnects with a lost love from her early high school days. Pyland masterfully moves between present day and their teen years, allowing the flashbacks to enhance the current story. Excellent technique.
I greatly appreciate the quality of Pyland’s writing. With varied sentence structure and perfect grammar, I’m never distracted by the writing and can focus on the story. Not always the case with Lesfic. Plus, she knows how to write a steamy love scene.
I love getting to know the women from the Holiday series. I appreciate revisiting characters from previous books, while also getting to know a new person a little better each time.
Looking forward to spending more time with Scarlet, Ellie and Paisley soon.
June 25, 2022
This book is number 3 in The Holiday series, and the focus of the group is Aria this time around!
I have to say, not what I expected with Aria! It was so great to finally learn more about her character and backstory. What starts with a bang, definitely simmers into a slow burn / second chance trope! London was fun to meet, as are her friends and bakery.
The story intertwining with flashbacks made for an enjoyable journey, and a nice difference from Pyland's past books. Learning throughout how much you really can be changed through events from your past, and how they can surface both consciously and subconsciously without you even realising, made for a great read beyond the usual emotions of love and lust. History really does make this so much more complicated!
If you've loved the holiday series so far, you won't be disappointed adding this one to the list too!
I have to say, not what I expected with Aria! It was so great to finally learn more about her character and backstory. What starts with a bang, definitely simmers into a slow burn / second chance trope! London was fun to meet, as are her friends and bakery.
The story intertwining with flashbacks made for an enjoyable journey, and a nice difference from Pyland's past books. Learning throughout how much you really can be changed through events from your past, and how they can surface both consciously and subconsciously without you even realising, made for a great read beyond the usual emotions of love and lust. History really does make this so much more complicated!
If you've loved the holiday series so far, you won't be disappointed adding this one to the list too!
June 28, 2022
I was surprised by this book. I didn’t really like Aria’s character in the first two books and I wasn’t excited about reading this book. Turns out that maybe I wasn’t supposed to like her initially. Aria started the series as brash, closed off and promiscuous; there was nothing about her that said “romantic”. That all changed in this book and I actually loved reading her story. Aria and London were so well written - both had their flaws and their insecurities. Their story started with sweetness, then heartbreak and ended with a perfect match that was always meant to be. I loved London’s character and Aria was completely redeemed for me. Much to my surprise I rank them with Peyton & Dani and Mia & Skylar among my favorite Pyland couples. I highly recommend this book and I’m definitely looking forward to the next chapter in this series.
April 29, 2023
Ok, this was the story I was waiting for in this series and it has reinvigorated my energy with this series! I don’t consider myself the major lover of specific tropes like some (my love of a story comes from my connection to the leads, regardless of trope) but I do think a second chance romance is something that tends to work for me. I love Aria, and I wish the group was introduced through her eyes, rather than Westin’s, and I immediately bought into the love/lust/longing between Aria and London. When this story ends, you just feel so happy that these two found each other again.
With this story comes the introduction of London and her friend group that will be followed throughout the rest of the series. One of which I think is great, the other I think is annoying, but I will get to them as I review the rest of the books.
With this story comes the introduction of London and her friend group that will be followed throughout the rest of the series. One of which I think is great, the other I think is annoying, but I will get to them as I review the rest of the books.
June 24, 2022
The Fireworks is the third book in this series that follows a group of friends that have known each other since college. This time you get to follow Aria’s path. She changes a lot in this book. The heart break from her first love has set her life down a path that Aria’s no longer happy with after seeing her close friends find happiness. She realizes she wants this too. Then fate steps in and gives her a once in a lifetime second chance when she bumps into, London, her first love. Pyland takes you on a journey into both characters past that helps you understand their current heart situations and brings you along for a happy ending both deserve. Overall, this was just another really great Nicole Pyland story that I couldn’t put down until I finished reading it.
June 24, 2022
The Fireworks is a heartwarming 2nd chance story with your first love. Aria and London haven't seen or spoken to each other since they were teenagers but a fateful evening of watching fireworks with friends helps to bring them back together. The bursts in the sky are not the only things illuminating that night. The words, feelings, and experiences Aria & London begin to share rekindle a journey to love. The Fireworks is the 3rd book in the Holiday Series and is now also my FAVORITE of the series. Nicole Pyland's talent for composing characters and narratives that are fascinating and captivating will make you want to finish it in one sitting!
June 25, 2022
“And I was hers from that moment on. That was what it felt like anyway: I was hers, and she was mine. It was more than friendship from the start, but we didn’t know that, or, at least, I wasn’t ready to admit it.”
Heroine: 27 year old Aria Bancroft
Heroine: London Carlson
Jesus. This was oddly more deep and at times painful than I was anticipating. It caught me off guard but loved every minute of it. This is a second chance story that unfolds so perfectly. It was great that the past was woven in to give us glimpses when needed.
Cliffhanger – no (book #3 in series)
POV - Aria & London
Heroine: 27 year old Aria Bancroft
Heroine: London Carlson
Jesus. This was oddly more deep and at times painful than I was anticipating. It caught me off guard but loved every minute of it. This is a second chance story that unfolds so perfectly. It was great that the past was woven in to give us glimpses when needed.
Cliffhanger – no (book #3 in series)
POV - Aria & London
June 30, 2022
This hits close to home for me as it focuses on the youthful feelings that Aria and London had for one another in high school and those feelings causing every relationship afterwards to not really compare. The entire time I couldn’t wait to have them reconnect in that way and I couldn’t put the book down because I wanted to find out whether they knew they were meant to be, and it did not disappoint. I think this is one of my favourite books written by the author and definitely my favourite in this series so far. I can’t wait for the next instalment, but in the meantime I will most definitely be reading this one again.
June 21, 2022
What an amazing love story! Nicole Pyland you did it again. I didn’t think it was possible that there could be a better couple then Talon and Emerson but I was wrong. I think that Aria and London are #1. Their story is one for the ages. The connection these two have for one another is the kind of connection people should look for. I like this series so far because you get to still see what’s going on with all the friends even though the story is mainly about one of them at a time. As always I look forward to the next book. Can’t wait to see what else happens.
June 26, 2022
Hits Close to Home and Brings All the Feels
Nicole Pyland's third book in her holiday series, The Fireworks hits close to home for me. I found myself relating to both Aria and London. It's a story that will transport you back to when you were a teenager, just trying to figure it out and all the feels that come along with it. This story brought me to laughter, tears and everything in between. This is probably my favorite in the Holiday Series so far and if you've ever had a teenage first love left unresolved give this book a chance, you won't be sorry.
Nicole Pyland's third book in her holiday series, The Fireworks hits close to home for me. I found myself relating to both Aria and London. It's a story that will transport you back to when you were a teenager, just trying to figure it out and all the feels that come along with it. This story brought me to laughter, tears and everything in between. This is probably my favorite in the Holiday Series so far and if you've ever had a teenage first love left unresolved give this book a chance, you won't be sorry.
June 27, 2022
Third book in the series, Aria's story. I have to say they just keep getting better and better! Never once thought about learning more of Aria's story, I'm glad Nicole Pyland had different ideas for me. Never ever does anyone ever think that they will find their one true love as a teenager. Then life slaps you in the face and suddenly that one true love is the one that got away. Then like the burst of a firework that one true love stumbles back into your life! The Aria/London story is a beautiful one! One that I don't know that I needed!
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