The Holiday Switch by Tif Marcelo. Photo: Sarabeth Pollock
Holiday books are as much a part of my holiday traditions as baking cookies and decorating the tree. Tif Marcelo’s new book The Holiday Switch is the story of Lila Santos, a high school senior making the best of her last winter break at home before college. The Holiday Switch is a delightful YA holiday romance that offers a fun story that’s steeped in the rich traditions of a Filipino American family.
Though she plans to study medicine, Lila’s book blog is near and dear to her heart but she has to keep it a secret because her parents don’t approve of their children being on the internet after an incident threatened their safety and changed their lives. For Lila, Tinsel and Tropes is her sanctuary and she loves being able to share her opinions with her readers.
Lila works at the Bookworm Inn gift shop, a bustling destination thanks to the success of the beloved holiday film classic Holiday by the Lake. It’s always busy, but it’s a madhouse when the holidays arrive and when members of the cast plan to attend a special reunion celebration it keeps everyone on their toes.
For Lila, earning money over the break is important as she tries to save up to attend Syracuse, her dream school. Her plans are thwarted when the shop’s owner says her nephew will be taking over the full time spot during the break. Teddy is a student at Syracuse and he seems to have a huge chip on his shoulder that upsets Lila’s carefully ordered life at the Bookworm Inn gift shop.
The more they have to work together, the more she grows to resent him until Teddy starts to grow on her. Could it be that the tension is actually sparks flying between them?
It’s easy to get lost in Marcelo’s story. Lila is a rich character with a family you want to have in your life. She’s responsible and eager, and she’s willing to set aside her own happiness – her blog – to do what she believes her family wants her to do: Become a doctor.
Lila’s family is wonderful; though they’re protective of their kids, Lila’s parents are well-meaning and would do anything for their kids.
One of the things that stands out in the book is how much Lila struggles with the idea of being a burden on her family when it comes to the cost of college. It’s a hot button issue right now and seeing Lila grapple with trying to take on jobs to help pay for school – while she’s still in high school herself – says a lot. You can’t help but admire her dedication and drive, making it very easy to root for Lila when it comes to life and, possibly, love.
Though it’s considered a Young Adult story, romance and YA fans of all ages will appreciate the story and find it easy to become immersed in Marcelo’s narrative. And for holiday fans, The Holiday Switch offers a chance to imagine what life would be like for residents of a town known for a famous holiday movie.
My favorite thing about the story is Lila’s love for books. I relate to her character so much, from the desire to rush home to finish an amazing story to sharing my thoughts about my latest read, and even to the long-lasting effects of a book hangover.
When it comes to holiday YA romances, The Holiday Switch should be at the top of your list. It’s a quick read with a story that’s sure to leave you smiling.
