Our Take

Wreck My Plans is the perfect holiday romance—cozy small-town setting, forbidden attraction, and just enough angst to make the payoff satisfying. Jillian Meadows nails the brother's best friend trope, giving it emotional depth beyond the taboo appeal. What makes this work so well is that Gavin's three-year absence isn't just a plot device—his reasons for leaving are genuinely compelling and add real stakes to their reconnection. The chemistry between Lena and Gavin crackles from their first awkward reunion, all forced smiles and lingering glances that fool no one. Meadows balances the sweet (small-town Christmas traditions, family gatherings, winter coziness) with the spicy (the tension finally breaking in deeply satisfying ways) without letting either overwhelm the story. Lena is a great protagonist—dealing with career setbacks while hiding her struggles from her family feels relatable, and her artistic spirit provides nice contrast to Gavin's structured architect life. The mystery of why Gavin left unfolds at the right pace, revealing layers to his character and making his return more meaningful. The supporting cast of family and townspeople adds warmth without cluttering the central romance. The small-town setting feels lived-in rather than twee, and the holiday atmosphere enhances rather than dominates. This is comfort reading at its finest—you know they'll get together, but the journey there is engaging enough to keep pages turning. Fans of In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren or The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox will devour this. Wreck My Plans delivers exactly what holiday romance readers want: heart, heat, and a happily-ever-after that feels earned.