Book Review and Giveaway: Through the Snow Globe

By Becky Gulc

It’s never too early for a festive read in my opinion and to be honest it’s definitely felt more like autumn than summer in the UK recently so it’s been perfect for snuggling up with my first Christmas book of the year, Through the Snow Globe by Annie Rains. Here is the synopsis:

‘Diana Merriman is probably the only person in the small town of Snow Haven who isn’t looking forward to Christmas. It’s been three weeks since her fiancé Linus was hit by a car as he biked home from the toy store he owns.

When she uncovers the surprise gift Linus had bought her for Christmas – a snow globe of their town – the night before Christmas Eve, little does she know it will set her on a course that will change everything. Because Diana wakes up to find that it’s the day of Linus’ accident.

Stuck in an endless loop, repeating the day over and over, Diana fights fate to save her fiancé. But it’s not just Linus who needs rescuing. As Diana uncovers startling truths about herself and her relationship, the future becomes even more uncertain…’ (Courtesy of Amazon UK.)

I’m a big fan of the film Groundhog Day, so I liked the premise of this novel instantly and was open to the idea of a time-loop story. Diana is a physical therapist who, as those closest to her may say themselves, is somewhat aloof and a bit of an ‘Elsa’ (ice-queen!). Although Diana is happily engaged to trusty and reliable toy shop owner Linus, and the couple have enjoyed a whirlwind romance having been together less than a year, for some reason Diana is evading all questions about a wedding day. And then disaster strikes as Linus is left in a coma following an accident. December fourth is when it happens. When Diana’s neighbour puts an enchantment on a snow globe Diana finds, which Linus planned to give to her, suddenly every day becomes December fourth. The question is what will change for Diana and can she change the course of that day if she gets to live that day over again? How will she interact with the different people she comes across and what impact will this have on the outcome? You’ll have to read it to find out!

I truly enjoyed this novel. I didn’t warm to Diana instantly and I don’t think you’re meant to as a reader, but she’s not a bad person; just guarded and likes to keep things very professional at work when dealing with her patients. Each day Diana’s main aim is to stop the accident, but slowly she learns that there are some fundamental ways in which she can help and support those who need it; those she comes into contact with most days, and she begins to have a different outlook on life and self-realisation about why she is the way she is. 

I adored Diana’s patients, which include an elderly lady (Maria) and a teenage girl (Addy) who is adapting to living with cancer. I would look forward to the scenes with these characters the most to see the difference Diana could make to them, and slowly but surely, them to her. Linus is also a sweetheart who clearly adores Diana and I was rooting for him and rooting for them as a couple, throughout.

There are some lovely moments in the novel including with a looked after child called Dustin who is maybe on the wrong path, but just needs some love. I enjoyed the secret he shared with Diana and the understanding this brought between them.

Whilst a loved one being in a coma doesn’t exactly sound Christmassy, I did find the novel to be festive. There’s the build up, the pressure, the family dynamics to deal with, all of which are covered but in a sweet and profound way through this story and wonderful warm supporting characters. My only criticism is that I wasn’t ready for this novel to end!

Thanks to Kensington for the book in exchange for an honest review. They also have FIVE copies to give away!

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Giveaway ends August 29th at midnight EST.

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