A Cozy Escape: Review of The No Pressure Pact (Love in the Alps, #1) by Maria Rigou
From the moment I heard about The No Pressure Pact, I felt a pull toward it. Perhaps it was the charming title or the promise of romance in a picturesque alpine setting that piqued my interest. I’ll admit; I was imagining a story filled with sweeping landscapes and heart-stopping moments. What I found, though, was something intimate and achingly relatable—a gentle foray into connection between two anxious souls, beautifully penned by Maria Rigou.
This sweet, short story follows Manuela and Connor, who are both reluctant participants in an engagement trip celebrating their friends. It has that indie movie vibe, feeling more like an intimate character study than a high-drama romance. Initially, both characters feel like outsiders in this luxurious setting, and yet, there’s a lovely understanding that unfolds as they draw each other out of their shells. Their relationship—a tender, quiet connection—reminds me of Normal People, where the beauty lies in unspoken emotions and shared silences. Honestly, if Connell Waldron had a twin sister and a male counterpart, they would be Manuela and Connor.
Manuela captivated me with her quiet strength and observant nature. As an immigrant from Argentina navigating her place in New York, she often grapples with feelings of inadequacy compared to the wealthy trip-goers. I appreciated how carefully Rigou portrayed her struggles. That said, I yearned for deeper insights into her inner world, particularly regarding her friendships. While Elle, her friend, acts as a support and motivational figure, it felt like an opportunity was missed to explore their dynamic in more depth. After all, if you’re going to create such a compelling character, let us see the multifaceted relationships around her!
Connor equally intrigued me. He embodies that classic “lost boy” trope, feeling the weight of familial expectations and seeking his own identity. The way he connects with Manuela transcends mere words—a perfect encapsulation of the “no words but full understanding” relationship archetype. Their intimate moments felt genuine, with that palpable spark that fans of slow-burn romances crave. The tension heightened when they crossed physical barriers (and let’s talk about Connor’s endearing whimpering, which had me giggling in delight). However, I couldn’t help but wish for just a bit more dialogue or emotional exploration to see the nuances in their bond, especially during those pivotal moments of self-actualization.
While I appreciated Connor’s ultimate declaration of love, it came with a tinge of disbelief, almost feeling like a whirlwind fling rather than a profound confession—at least at first. Yet the way it mirrors his reclaiming of agency in his life was expertly done, and I found myself cheering him on.
Overall, The No Pressure Pact is a lovely read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt, character-driven stories where intimacy is built on shared insecurities and quiet moments. This book will resonate with fellow introverts, those navigating their own identities, or anyone who has ever felt out of place among peers. It’s a reminder that even in our most vulnerable moments, true connections can bloom in unexpected places.
Thank you, Maria Rigou, for this delightful ARC—it was a gentle escape I truly needed!🩷
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