Some Like it Cold

As a new reader of Elle McNicoll's work, diving into “Some Like it Cold” felt like an already favourite book and I will be reading more of her work.

This novel, which I would say is half coming-of-age novel, half enemies-to-lovers romance, and offers more than a love story. McNicoll brings together themes of family dynamics, small-town life, being on the spectrum, and loving someone on the spectrum, creating a story that offers heartwarming insight.

I found Jasper's journey to be authentic (sometimes, painfully so) but also enlightening. What truly touched me as someone on the spectrum who counts as ‘highly functioning' was the way that living with autism was portrayed with sensitivity, honesty, and authenticity. If you have a child or close relative on the spectrum and you are not, I advise you to read this book for some insight on one experience with ASD.

The romance between Jasper and Arthur is nicely written, with a perfect balance of sweetness and personal history. Their journey from distant enemies to reluctant allies to something more is a classic enemies-to-lovers gambit. McNicoll excels at capturing the nuances of their relationship, making every moment feel authentic.

Jasper's relationships with friends and family are also deeply and insightfully explored. These threads and subplots make up the other half of the novel and are honest and compelling. Themes of repairing a strained friendship, the need to belong vs. the need to break away, and the personal price of keeping the peace are explored with brutal honesty without harshness.

Their hometown Lake Pristine, has that small-town atmosphere that adds an extra layer of depth to the story. It feels like a visit to a place where you would spend a charming weekend. If you fell in love with the place and moved there, you wouldn't be considered a ‘local' until your family had been there for three generations, and that feeling is kindly but honestly conveyed, an authentic background for the novel.

“Some Like it Cold” is a delightful read that will tug at your heart and leave you with a smile. Elle McNicoll's storytelling shines brightly in this novel, and I cannot recommend it enough. Whether you're a fan of romance, interested in neurodiversity, or simply looking for a heartwarming story to brighten your day, this book is a must-read.

Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review