Once the hottest mergers and acquisitions executive in the company, Henrietta Wegner can see the ambitious and impossibly young up-and-comers gunning for her job. When Henri’s boss makes it clear she’ll be starting the New Year unemployed unless she can close a big deal before the holidays, Henri impulsively tells him that she can convince her aging parents to sell Wegner’s—their iconic Frankenmuth, Michigan, Christmas store—to a massive, soulless corporation. It’s the kind of deal cool, corporate Henri has built her career on. Home for the holidays has typically meant a perfunctory twenty-four-hour visit for Henri, then back to Detroit as fast as her car will drive her. So turning up at the Wegner’s offices in early December raises some eyebrows: from her delighted, if puzzled, parents to her suspicious brother and curious childhood friends. But as Henri fields impatient texts from her boss while reconnecting with the magic of the store and warmth of her hometown, what sounded great in the boardroom begins to lose its luster in real life. She’s running out of time to pull the trigger on what could be the greatest success of her career…or the most awkward family holiday of her life.
MY THOUGHTS:
Henrietta Wagner's job is on the line. As a last ditch effort, Henri promises her boss that she can get her parents to sell their iconic Christmas store in Michigan. Henri's father built his business up from scratch and hoped to one day leave the business to Henri and her brother. So, after years of only pop in visits with her family, Henri travels to the town of Frankenmuth. Now, to get her parents willing to sell and not break the hearts of everyone that has faith in her.
Her parents are thrilled that Henri is visiting during the holidays, but her brother doesn't trust Henri's motives and even the friends she grew up with have their suspicions. Staying away from the real reason for her extended visit, Henri must contend with difficult texts from her boss. What is happening? Will his company be able to buy her parents business, in effect stealing it right from under them?
Viola Shipman does it best. Tells a story that captivates the reader, makes one feel compassion for the primary protagonist. Relates an impossible situation and yet delivers a satisfying conclusion. Bravo!
Many thanks to Graydon House and to NetGalley for this book for review. This is my honest opinion.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Wade’s books have been selected multiple times as Must-Reads by NBC’s Today Show, Michigan Notable Books of the Year and Indie Next Picks. He lives in Michigan and California, and hosts Wine & Words with Wade, A Literary Happy Hour, every Thursday.
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