You know that feeling when you stumble upon a hidden gem of a book? That’s exactly what happened to me with Abby Jimenez’s novella “The Situationship.” It’s like finding a perfectly ripe strawberry in a field—sweet, unexpected, and leaving you wanting more.
A Meet-Cute with a Side of Bacon
Set in the charming small town of Wakan, Minnesota, “The Situationship” by Abby Jimenez introduces us to Maddy, a no-nonsense travel nurse, and Doug, a ruggedly handsome farmer with a heart of gold. Their paths cross thanks to Kevin Bacon—not the actor, but a pig in a reflective vest. Yes, you read that right. Only in a small town, folks!
Characters That Feel Like Old Friends
Jimenez has a knack for creating characters that leap off the page and into your heart. Maddy is a firecracker—smart, sassy, and fiercely protective of her best friend Emma. She’s not looking for love, but love might just be looking for her.
Doug, on the other hand, is the kind of guy your grandma would love. He’s:
- Hardworking
- Kind-hearted
- A bit of a goofball
- Did I mention he has a pet pig?
Their chemistry is instant and electric. It’s like watching two puzzle pieces click into place—if those puzzle pieces were covered in sexual tension and small-town charm.
Supporting Cast That Steals the Show
Even in this short novella, Jimenez manages to create a rich tapestry of supporting characters:
- Emma: Maddy’s best friend, going through a tough time
- Daniel and Alexis: Doug’s friends and pillars of the community
- Kevin Bacon: The town mascot and unintentional matchmaker
Each character adds depth to the story, making Wakan feel like a real place you’d want to visit.
A Romance That’ll Make You Swoon
Look, I’m a sucker for a good romance, and “The Situationship” by Abby Jimenez delivers in spades. The build-up between Maddy and Doug is delicious—full of witty banter, lingering glances, and those little moments that make your heart skip a beat.
Some standout romantic moments:
- Doug’s terrible (but endearing) attempt at singing
- Maddy’s reluctant admission of attraction
- The tension-filled splinter removal scene (trust me, it’s hotter than it sounds)
More Than Just a Pretty Face
What I love about Jimenez’s writing is that she doesn’t shy away from deeper themes. Even in this short format, she touches on:
It adds a layer of depth that elevates “The Situationship” from a simple rom-com to something more meaningful.
Small-Town Magic
Wakan itself becomes a character in the story. Jimenez paints a vivid picture of small-town life, with its:
- Quirky traditions (hello, pig mascot!)
- Close-knit community
- Slower pace of life
It’s the perfect backdrop for a romance to bloom, making you want to pack your bags and move to Minnesota. (Well, maybe not in winter.)
Jimenez’s Signature Style
If you’ve read any of Abby Jimenez’s other works (like “The Friend Zone” or “Life’s Too Short”), you’ll recognize her trademark blend of humor, heart, and heat. Her writing style is:
- Breezy and conversational
- Peppered with laugh-out-loud moments
- Emotionally resonant
Even in this shorter format, she manages to pack in all the elements that make her full-length novels so beloved.
A Taste of Something Bigger
“The Situationship” by Abby Jimenez feels like a tantalizing appetizer for a larger story. It’s clear that Maddy and Doug’s journey is just beginning, and I found myself wishing for a full-length novel to explore their relationship further.
The Perfect Introduction
For readers new to Jimenez’s work, this novella serves as an excellent introduction to her style and the world of Wakan. It’s like dipping your toe in the water before diving into her full-length novels.
Who Should Read “The Situationship”?
This novella is perfect for:
- Romance lovers looking for a quick, satisfying read
- Fans of small-town settings
- Anyone who needs a mood boost
- Readers curious about Abby Jimenez’s work
Comparable Reads
If you enjoyed “The Situationship,” you might also like:
- “The Unhoneymooners” by Christina Lauren
- “The Hating Game” by Sally Thorne
- “Well Met” by Jen DeLuca
The Verdict: A Charming Escape
“The Situationship” by Abby Jimenez may be short, but it packs a punch. It’s the literary equivalent of a warm hug or a perfect cup of coffee—comforting, satisfying, and leaving you with a smile on your face.
Is it groundbreaking literature? No. But does it need to be? Absolutely not. Sometimes what we need is a well-crafted escape, and that’s exactly what Jimenez delivers.
A Few Nitpicks (Because Nobody’s Perfect)
If I had to find faults (and I’m really reaching here):
- The story feels a bit rushed at times, due to the novella format
- Some readers might want more resolution or a glimpse into the future
- The small-town setting might feel cliché to some
But honestly? These are minor quibbles in an otherwise delightful read.
Final Thoughts: A Situationship Worth Committing To
“The Situationship” is like that perfect first date—it leaves you giddy, excited, and eager for more. Abby Jimenez has crafted a story that’s:
- Heartwarming
- Funny
- Romantic
- Just the right amount of steamy
It’s the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with romance novels in the first place. It’s an escape, yes, but one that feels authentic and relatable.
So, grab a cozy blanket, your beverage of choice, and settle in for a delightful romp through Wakan. Just be prepared—you might find yourself booking a trip to Minnesota and keeping an eye out for pigs in reflective vests.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a quick, feel-good read that’ll leave you with a smile on your face and a warm fuzzy feeling in your heart, “The Situationship” by Abby Jimenez is absolutely worth your time. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life—and in literature—come in small packages.
So go ahead, treat yourself to this literary cupcake. You deserve it.