Review of Night and Day (Langston Hotels Book 1) by Jennifer Gracen
As someone who often daydreams about escaping to charming locales and rediscovering the magic of life through new experiences, Jennifer Gracen’s Night and Day immediately caught my eye. The combination of a small-town Colorado resort facing transition and a tantalizing romance feels like a perfect recipe for a cozy read, and this debut in her Langston Hotels series did not disappoint!
At the heart of the story is Tessa Ashford, a determined manager at the Windward Resort, who has devoted her life to maintaining this iconic hub of her hometown. However, her dream quickly turns into a nightmare when Langston Hotels, a luxury empire, acquires the resort. Gracen beautifully sets the stage for a battle between Tessa’s commitment to preserving the Windward’s charm and the impending developments that could jeopardize not just her job, but also the livelihoods of her staff and the surrounding town. Tessa’s fears felt authentic and relatable, capturing the weight of responsibility she shoulders as both a leader and a caretaker of her community.
The relationship dynamics between Tessa and her new boss, Ambrose “Ro” Langston, set the narrative ablaze with tension. Their initial encounter at a masked charity ball—where Tessa steps into an enchanting alter ego—fosters a delightful one-night stand that later complicates their professional lives. I loved how Gracen utilized the classic "enemies-to-lovers" trope here, masterfully intertwining humor and heartfelt moments while building suspense. Their rapport evolves through misunderstandings and workplace communication snafus, reflecting the complexities of modern relationships.
Gracen’s writing style in Night and Day is particularly engaging; it balances lighthearted romance with underlying themes of loyalty and change. I found myself swept up in the playful banter between Tessa and Ro, punctuated by sharp dialogue that made each character feel real and relatable. It’s as if I could hear their voices and feel the ebb and flow of their connection, which kept the pacing lively and dynamic. The tension simmering just beneath the surface added a delightful layer of anticipation, especially as their chemistry heated up.
One of my favorite elements of the novel was how Gracen included a subplot involving some romantic suspense, which she navigated with finesse. It was refreshing that the conflict didn’t revolve around clichéd misunderstandings but rather tied logically into the overarching narrative, making the ending all the more satisfying.
For readers who appreciate a compelling romance intertwined with a glimpse into community dynamics, Night and Day is a treat. It’s a story not just about love but about what it means to protect what you cherish in the face of change. If you’re a fan of heartfelt, character-driven tales where the stakes are more than just the romance itself, you’ll find yourself enamored with Tessa, Ro, and the vibrant world Gracen has created.
As I closed the final page, I realized that Night and Day resonates on multiple levels—for those who dream big and love deeply, and for those who understand that sometimes, embracing change is what leads to the most rewarding adventures of all. I can’t wait to see where Gracen takes us next in the series, slated for August with Before and After!
Happy reading, friends!
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