This is essentially a holiday novella disguised as a full book. It's not necessary for plot — you could skip it and miss nothing critical — but it's a cozy little palette cleanser after the war and gives some much-needed insight into where everyone's at emotionally.
The highlight for me? Cassian and Nesta. Their tension, their dynamic, watching her spiral while he refuses to give up on her — this novella planted seeds that I was desperate to see bloom. And for the record: I was on Nesta's side the ENTIRE time. She went through something horrific, lost her father, was turned into something she never asked to be, and everyone's response is to judge her coping mechanisms? Rhys cutting her off financially was a twat move. Let the woman grieve however she needs to grieve. Mind your business, bat boy.
Feyre conjuring the ice hounds? Velaris being under threat? THAT was the energy I needed. Those moments reminded me that this world still has teeth, even during the "soft" chapters.
But overall — it's filler. Sweet, occasionally insightful filler. Read it for the Nesta/Cassian crumbs and the Winter Solstice vibes, then move on to the book that actually delivers.
❄️ 3/5 stars. A hot chocolate read — warm, nice, forgettable by morning.