In this Bed of Snowflakes We Lie

Once upon a time we would simply say someone is shy, and now we get a lot more technical about it and label it some form of neurodivergence – which is fine if it helps us to identify tools to helps us function more effectively in the world. But sometimes I have to wonder if the multi-syllable labels are always helpful. Of course shy is a label as well.

I found this holiday romance set in Norway to be quite heart-warming. Two young men, each with their own issues find a path together and discover something wonderful. With all the descriptions of food, it definitely made me long for a Christmas holiday in Norway. A story that reminds the reader that life is often full of tiny fragile things, but when combined something is created that is strong enough to support our weight.

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Oskar Høiland hides from life. It just makes things easier that way, not having to face all the fears and drama of living. He avoids other people, because Oskar has grown up fearing the snide remarks and the quick glances that strip him of the tiny scraps of confidence he still has left. He is just going to keep existing. Work hard to complete his medical degree and perhaps watch a few more series on Netflix in peace and quiet over Christmas.

Erik Nøst Hansen should be an almost fully-fledged adult. He should be able to sort out the mess that festers in his head and stop lying. It’s just hard. And it’s bloody terrifying to even acknowledge the thoughts that swirl around in his head at night when he can’t sleep. He also needs to figure out how to talk to the boy downstairs. The one with the golden curls and the crooked smile. The boy who is completely monopolising Erik’s messed-up heart.

A story of falling in love and being brave. A Christmas tale with a difference, set in the university dorms of central Oslo, where lies are uncovered, snowflakes are falling all over the place, and beds are made to lie in. There is a slightly unconventional family. A mess of animal onesies. Too much food and a very Merry Christmas.

The Purple Fantastic Steam Rating gives this a 4 out of 5. There is sexual activity that is quite specific, but it is so rooted in the forward momentum of character growth that I found it to be more beautiful than excessive. You can read more about the Steam Ratings on the About Page.