Why: Learning that I adore Jenny Holiday’s Christmas in Eldovia trilogy, Emmalita recommended that I should read Into the Woods and I’m glad I did!
What: Into the Woods is a contemporary romance. Wild Arts summer camp is in last minute need of two artists in residence for the July and August sessions. Through acquaintances Gretchen Miller and Teddy Knight end up filling in for the dance and instrumental music programs respectively. After an initial round of wrong impressions and then bonding through camp experiences, Gretchen and Teddy form an unexpected friendship that tips over into more.
Where: Wild Arts is a rustic camp in northern Minnesota. Surrounded by dense forests and alongside a large lake for swimming and paddle boats.
Who: Gretchen is a dancer and studio owner of Miss Miller’s Dance School of Minnetonka. She is turning 40 on August 31st and staving off her mid-life crisis by investing in herself through buying a building to expand her business. Tired of how she’s treated by men on dating apps and a failed last hurrah, Gretchen has decided to be entirely done with men and become a crone. The time at Wild Arts will give her a break before diving into the work of the new building and a reset when it comes to men.
Teddy was the bassist, writer, and backup vocalist for the band he helped found, Concrete Temple. Unfortunately, the band has just broken up and he’s at loose ends. His sister convinces Teddy that going to camp will give him time to figure out what comes next and hopefully write a new solo album.
Likes: I loved watching Teddy and Gretchen bond over their challenging childhoods and slowly become each other’s most trusted person. I liked how they both grow and end up wanting more than they were intending on arrival. Teddy’s third act grand gesture is sweet, especially if you are a GenX/ Xennial like me. The audio narration by Kit Swann and Teddy Hamilton is fantastic. If you like audiobooks I highly recommend this one.
Dislikes: None! Aside from regularly talking about mosquitoes, which I abhor, this is a lovely read.