Allison inherits a former sandwich shop property in Clearwater Beach and moves cross county to renovate the property and start a new business of her choosing. Allison needs a contractor to lead the renovation and Drew’s company is awarded the project. Both Allison and Drew are closed off people who are bitter about past relationships. Allison keeps “The List” about things and mistakes that she will never repeat. Drew is even skeptical about calling Allison “a friend” as they begin to eventually get to know each other.

This bitterness and distrust is the basis for their fragile interactions. However, Drew routinely visits her grandmother, June, at a care facility where Allison volunteers. June and two of her friends, Dorothy and Blanche, see the potential for a relationship between Drew and Allison. So they have them coordinate a Winter Wonderland event for the facility residents. Drew and Allison are forced to spend time together and slowly begin to learn about each other . This helps with the distrust and to ease the bitterness.

This slow burn romance was well written with Kat Jackson’s prose and vivid descriptions. The end result is two people learning how to trust and love again. 4 stars

I received an ARC from Bella Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this fun book

always love a story with a toolbelt in it.... and this one had it all

drew and allison a slow melt for drew but for allison it was instant attraction

allison was looking for a new start and a new business venture.... she had been left property and was now deciding what to do with it.... and with an idea in mind she needed a contractor....

enter drew... not the best at social engagements and having to look around the place and put in a quote wasnt her forte as the person who did this was away.... drew was more hands

a slow build but a great storyline theres more to drew that needs answering but for now this was a great read

Deck the Palms by Kat Jackson is a funny, romantic, and swoon-worthy novel that showcases the author's remarkable range. Known for her emotionally intense and often somber narratives, Jackson outdoes herself in this delightful departure from her usual fare -- No Academia and No sadness! Not only are the main characters, Allison Bradley and Drew Kingsley, irresistibly charming and witty, but the ensemble cast surrounding them amplifies the humor and sizzle of the story.

Speaking of sizzle, can we talk about *that* scene? OMG! I am a little mad that there was only one, and that we had to wait until chapter 28 for it!

In all seriousness, Jackson's writing remains as beautiful and evocative as ever; not sacrificing her signature style to infuse humor into the narrative. Instead, she masterfully balances internal insecurities with laughter, creating moments that will resonate deeply with fans of her emotionally intelligent, psychoanalyzed, character-driven storytelling. I'm so thankful she chose to explore the lighter, more lighthearted side of human experience in this novel.

This is the perfect novel to read if you're looking for a holiday read that doesn't have snow, a 3rd act breakup, or miscommunication. This book has quickly risen to the top of my recommendation list.

Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for this book!!

What a great book! I enjoyed this one a lot!!! I had a hard time putting it down. I enjoyed the chemistry between the characters. Great writing style!! This was a first by this author for me but will not be my last!