Oh, my heart. Lauren and Asa had so many wonderful things going for each other, if only they'd learn how to communicate. Miscommunication/lack of communication is one of my least favorite tropes, and unfortunately, Asa and Lauren had that in spades. They both had very valid reasons for acting the way they did, but it didn't make me want to shout at them through the book any less.

I truly enjoyed the premise of this book. Both the main characters as well as the supporting cast were all fun to read. It's not often that I can say I'd read a book featuring any of the secondary characters, but Thompson wrote some fantastic, fully fleshed out roommates and coworkers, and I could definitely see myself devouring any of their own stories.

With Love, from Cold World had one of those stories that was just easy for me to fall into. Asa and Lauren could easily be real people dealing with these very realistic situations while falling into a real-life romance with each other; there was no reaching to make their story believable.

I loved how fully realized both Asa and Lauren seemed to me. Their backstories, and the way the past influenced them in the present, was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. These were two very lost souls who were able to finally find their person. Self-sacrifice might as well have been both their middle names, and I felt their experiences to my core.

I think my only issue with the plot was how minimized the actual problems at Cold World seemed to be. The problem was introduced in a page, and was seemingly resolved within only a few sentences. The only reason there seemed to even be an issue at Cold World was just to further Asa and Lauren's relationship drama. The problem and quick resolution seemed to solely exist for the main couple's benefit, and it didn't seem to actually matter much to the plot. But, with solid writing that easily swept me into the story, great character building, and two main characters I just wanted to hug the whole book - whether they were actually communicating with each other or not - With Love, from Cold World was a solid four star read for me.

Happy Pumpkin Season!!!

It’s been blazing hot the last five days, with heat indices around 110 degrees Fahrenheit, but thankfully, we’re in for cooler temps beginning tomorrow!!

In that spirit, I’m ready for all things pumpkin, apple, and blustery, and though WITH LOVE, FROM COLD WORLD wasn’t necessarily a summer read, I could relate to wanting relief from the balmy heat all this week, and the frosty environs of Cold World (a winter-themed activity center) sounded positively ideal!!

I loved the not-quite-enemies-to-lovers plot of this book, but what I appreciated even more was how Thompson broached the topics of bisexuality, the foster care system, feelings of abandonment, and the beautiful cultivation of a found family.

Contemporary books that discuss deeper and tougher subject matter always touch my heart, and I’m so glad that @aliciabooks wrote this novel. You could really feel her heart in this one, and though I personally feel that things escalated a little too fast in terms of the romance and could have used a little more development, I still thoroughly enjoyed it 😍

Thank you so much to @aliciabooks @berkleypub @prhaudio and @berittalksbooks for my gifted e-book and audiobook, and for the great buddy read and discussion!

With Love, from Cold World is a book that warmed my heart even as it transported me to the frosty wonderland of Cold World itself, nestled incongruously in sunny Orlando, Florida. Lauren and Asa's story is a rollercoaster of emotions, humor, and charm that left me with a smile as wide as a Ferris wheel.

Lauren, the practical bookkeeper, and Asa, the irrepressibly enthusiastic coworker, make for an unforgettable pair. Their banter is a sheer delight, and their evolution from workplace rivals to something more is utterly endearing. But what really sets this book apart is its clever use of the Cold World setting as a character in its own right. As I read, I found myself wishing this magical winter haven existed in reality.

What impressed me most was the depth and authenticity of the characters. Lauren and Asa both carry scars from their pasts, and the way they help and support each other in healing is beautifully portrayed. Additionally, their involvement with kids facing challenges, drawn from their own experiences, adds a heartwarming layer to the story.

The writing style, presented in dual points of view, allows us to step into the minds of both protagonists. This approach made their misunderstandings and personal growth all the more engaging.

While this story leans into the classic enemies-to-lovers trope, it does so with grace and a refreshing lack of unnecessary cruelty. The rapid escalation of the romance feels perfectly natural, driven by the chemistry and simmering attraction that were there all along.

But what truly sets this book apart is its ability to elicit genuine emotional investment in the success of Cold World. You'll be cheering not just for Lauren and Asa but also for this unique and lovable setting. Alicia Thompson has crafted a story with depth, humor, and memorable characters that I won't soon forget. Whether you're a fan of forced proximity, slow burn, enemies-to-lovers, workplace romance, or just a heartfelt and entertaining read, With Love, from Cold World deserves a spot on your bookshelf.

Alicia knows how to write a unique romance story with depth and this was no exception. I had a great time reading this book and I can't wait to see more from her.

With Love, from Cold World is a charming and heartwarming romance novel set in a winter wonderland amusement park in Florida. The story follows Lauren Fox, a bookkeeper who is determined to get her master's degree and start her own freelance business. However, her plans are put on hold when she is asked to work with Asa Williamson, a fun-loving and carefree employee, to save Cold World from financial ruin.

Lauren and Asa are complete opposites, and they clash at every turn. But as they work together to develop a plan to save the amusement park, they begin to see each other in a new light. Lauren starts to loosen up and enjoy herself, while Asa begins to take life more seriously.

Thompson does a wonderful job of developing her characters and creating a believable romance. Lauren is a relatable and likable protagonist, and Asa is a charming and funny love interest. The chemistry between the two characters is undeniable, and their romance is both sweet and sexy.

In addition to the romance, With Love, from Cold World also features a heartwarming story about friendship, family, and finding your place in the world. Thompson explores themes of abandonment, foster care, and social anxiety with sensitivity and compassion.

Overall, With Love, from Cold World is a delightful and heartwarming romance novel that will stay with readers long after they finish reading. It is a must-read for fans of the genre.

Tropes:
Workplace romances
Enemies-to-lovers romances
Holiday romances

I absolutely love the way how Thompson wastes no time in pulling us into the story and making us lose ourselves in the characters, their interactions, and the emotions that she so effortlessly weaves between them is absolutely magical.

Enemy to lovers is not my favourite trope, so I wasn't sure what to expect with this book.
It's good that I gave it a chance, the story is cute, funny and heartfelt, I just wish it was in first person POV.

I greatly enjoyed this romance novel! It was fun, sexy, and set in an interesting location that kept me coming back for more. I want to go to Cold World!
While the romance was delightful and steamy, Thompson also does a great job creating complex and dynamic characters who change and learn over the story in great and true ways.

Meet Lauren Fox, a bookkeeper at Cold World, a quirky tourist attraction that's winter all year round. Lauren's not exactly the poster child for excitement, but she's content with her job, content to keep her head down.

Then there's Asa Williamson, her vivacious coworker who knows how to bring some zest to their workdays. From organizing Secret Santa shindigs to teasing Lauren, Asa is the opposite of Lauren in many ways. But when they're tasked with coming up with ideas to boost revenue, their competitive sides come to life.

Their rivalry turns out to be more than just a clash of personalities when they realize Cold World is in serious trouble. As they work together to save the place, their competitive spirit morphs into a partnership, and sparks start to fly.

A standout feature of this book that I absolutely LOVED is the portrayal of a bisexual male character, which is a refreshing and beautifully crafted aspect of the story. Rarely do I get a hot bi MMC and Asa was a slam dunk for me. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, and their evolving relationship is a joy to witness in this book.

Alicia Thompson's writing is engaging, witty, and full of charm. She seamlessly blends humor and romance to create a heartwarming, page-turning story as always. If you're in the mood for a sweet and sizzling romance with a touch of rivalry, "With Love, from Cold World" is a must-read. It's a testament to the idea that opposites can attract in the most heartwarming way. Alicia Thompson has delivered another winner, and this book is right up there with her debut.

I loved this book so much. Asa and Lauren were so compelling. I really loved the character development in this book. The romance was sweet and spicy. And I even was in board with the TAB. Highly recommend this book.

This book was a little bit slow in plot for me. I liked the characters and the author did a great job of representation of diversity in the novel. However, I just couldn't get invested in the love story or the plot because it moved along a bit too slowly for me. I did like the unique atmosphere of being in a winter themed amusement park.

Alicia Thompson set my expectations high with her previous book, I loved it, and I was not disappointed! With Love, from Cold World gave me everything I wanted and left me feeling happy. I love both characters, the enemies to lovers in the work place setting, and the grumpy sunshine trope.

When it comes to the spice in this book, in my opinion, it isn't very spicy; there are some sex scenes but I've read much more detailed scenes in other books. All of it was written well and if you enjoy spice in your books, I think you will enjoy this one.

At first, I was afraid this was just another predictable enemies to lovers HEA workplace romance but IT WAS NOT! A little slow to start but when Asa and Lauren get to their “stuck together” scene the story gets way more interesting and I got invested!

Things that made this book stand out in my mind from the typical:
* Set at “Cold World” - an indoor amusement attraction in Orlando, Florida that replicates a winter wonderland with a skating rink, snow, and all. How creative!
* LGBTQ representation for MMC & growing up with a religious, unaccepting family backstory. Themes of self-acceptance and acceptance of others.
* Nerdy and anxious FMC with foster care backstory who wants to help other children.
* Christmas holiday themes.
* A fun workplace competition that turns the heat up!

Thank you so much to Alicia, Berkley, and NetGalley for the digital review copy! I also snagged a special edition from B&N of this one. I look forward to more from Alicia in the future!

This book was just so fun and delightful! Despite having some darker content matter at times, Asa and Lauren just made the book so full of happiness that I couldn’t help walking away from the book with a smile on my face due to this fictional couple’s relationship making me believe in the idea of true love. Their progression from people who didn’t get along because they didn’t really relate to being each other’s person, who just gets them was so sweet. They supported each other when they needed to and it just felt like what a healthy relationship should be.
I also thought the bisexual representation was done beautifully. I especially loved how Lauren dealt with his parents’ bigotry. I also thought the addition of Lauren’s foster care experience was interesting to read about, since that is so rarely talked about in romcoms or pop culture in general.
Everyone should go pick up this book, especially if you’re in the holiday spirit, but don’t want something overly Christmasy!

I can't get enough of this sort of "highly dislike on site" trope that I felt while reading this book. The simmering connection that Thompson weaves together in this book is perfection. While our characters are total opposites from each other in so many ways, Thompson ensures they blend together so masterfully which just made me swoon even more! I adore the setting. It was fun and fresh. I really liked this book and hope for more from Alicia Thompson!

Good grief, this book hit me right in the feels. Witty and healing and sexy and hopeful. Loved, loved, loved it.

Thank you, Berkley, for the complimentary review copy. All opinions are my own and are unbiased.

Content notes: parental abandonment (past, discussed briefly throughout), parental drug overdose (past, off page), being in the foster care system, biphobia (on page, vehemently condemned in the narrative), being outed (past, mentioned briefly), being kicked out by parents due to bisxuality (past, discussed throughout, condemned and confronted in the narrative).

I really enjoyed this rivals-to-lovers workplace romance! It had the right balance of dealing with sensitive topics but having the steam and spice that I look for in a romance.

Workplace rivals Lauren and Asa have been at odds since they met. Where Lauren is uptight and controlling, Asa is laidback and whimsical. When their boss selects them to develop plans to revamp Cold World, the failing Orlando indoor theme park where they work, the two end up spending more time together, including getting locked into the park overnight. As the two work against, and eventually with, one another, they grow to realize how much they didn't truly understand the other - and how much they really, fundamentally, understand one another now.

While on a the surface level With Love, from Cold World seems like a playful romantic comedy, it goes deeper, discussing some tough topics. Lauren and Asa are both standout characters. While their personalities clash due to being so different, they both come from the same place, a fear of rejection due to troubled pasts. This is a memorable read that takes a surprisingly steamy turn.

This was a great book. I enjoyed it even more than love in the time of serial killers and found the banter endearing. The main characters were so easy to love and had a compelling character development. This was a refreshing and light hearted read, perfect for something easy! The covers are SO beautiful.

Quality bi male lead representation at its finest! Asa was a gem! Lauren was relatable in a lot of ways. Watching the two of these characters fall in love was very rewarding, and readers will adore the journey.