I always love reading from the perspective or point of view of a character who is closer to my age. With that. being said, I was totally invested in this book. The character development and the plot were really well written.. Kim and Grant’s relationship was definitely relatable at times and written with both humor and emotion. I’m not sure how it is that I have never written a book from this author before. I enjoyed The Snowbirds so much that I will. be checking out the other books by Christina Clancy.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

I really enjoyed this book! The characters were all so fun and full of personality, the story is told beautifully, and through all the twists and turn, you see the value of friendship and community. Definitely worth the read!

"I don't know about that," Thomas said, raising his glass to make a toast Grant did not participate in. "You'll have a hard time working on your relationship in a place where everyone starts drinking at three in the afternoon." Christina Clancy, The Snowbirds

Thank you #stmartinspress and #netgalley #gifted for this advance copy of:

The Snowbirds by Christina Clancy
Pub Date: February 4, 2025

Four 1/2 stars

A thoughtful, humorous and heartfelt story of a decades long relationship of Kim and Grant. They are at a crossroads in their lives - what to do next, where to go next and how will that impact those around them. This cast of characters are funny, sensitive and downright genius in the evolution of this couple and their recent temporary move to Palm Springs. Is it too late for each to find themselves and also find the spark that brought them together in the beginning? More than a love story, this is a life story. Of lost youth, next chapters and the age-old question, 'is this all there is?"

*** 9/3/24 *** Finished! Coming soon with a 2/4/25 pub date, this is really a relationship story about Kim and Grant (and their twin adult daughters), with a mystery glaze on top - will Grant be found or not??? And we have a side mystery about whether Kim and Grant will get married/stay together. And even a 3rd mystery about what location they might choose to live in.

Like many interesting books, this one has its share of memorable characters, including Kim's first husband, a very famous, very rich and very gay man, as well as his wealthy mother (all books need a very rich character or two to provide 'houses to borrow' and well paying jobs when needed). We also meet the Palm Springs crew, most of whom ooze personality, and Grant's first and ever-present wife.

The writing was very good and the portrayal of Kim felt very authentic. The book kept my attention between plot, character development, and mystery reveals, and I finished it in 2 days. With that said, the last 5% or so was good, but just too pat and perfect for my taste, even though I like a happy ending. 4.5 stars rounded up.

*** 9/1/24 *** Thank you, NetGalley, and St. Martin's Press, for an advanced copy of this combo relationship/slow burn mystery novel by Christina Clancy. I've never read this author before, but am really enjoying this book, told from the POV of Kim, who is a 50-something mother and partner to Grant. Women in that age range will empathize with Kim's telling of her story - balancing career aspirations, love, family, her own personal desires and life preferences - against a backdrop of how she was raised, financial needs, and others' needs. I really like the structure and writing, which feels authentic.

We know from the beginning of the book that Grant goes missing after presumably starting a hike - a new hobby he adopted when Kim basically insists they "winter" in her ex's home in sunny Palm Springs after many winters in Wisconsin. I read that the author is from WI, which I love, as I grew up near there and have visited the state many times. But is Grant really lost? Did he want to disappear? What is the truth of Kim and Grant's relationship, and how will they decide on a future? Who knows? I'm 50% in and will review when complete.

This author has given us a quick read about a couple who is making changes in life. Although together for years, with twin daughters, they have never married. Now they believe the time is right. However, each has doubts. While trying to discern what to do, the husband-to-be is lost on a hike in Palm Springs. Chaos ensues in both their lives. Although the story lends itself to realistic fiction, at times, there was too much confusion. The different time periods made for some difficulty also. That being said, this is a story of love and committment that many readers will love.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC to read and review. All opinions are my own.

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this arc!

This was such a good book. I really enjoyed it. More than I thought I would. I loved the writing style. This book had me hooked from page one. This is a first for me by this author but will not be my last!!

I made it a quarter of the way through before I finally threw in the towel. It just did not hold my attention, I couldn’t tell where the story was going or why I was supposed to care.

What truly stood out to me was the author’s ability to blend humor and tenderness, exploring the redemptive power of change and commitment. The story left me reflecting on my own life and relationships, appreciating the depth and authenticity of Kim and Grant’s journey.