Trouble Cove by Nancy Lindley-Gauthier

August 14, 2017 By Leave a Comment


Trouble Cove by Nancy Lindley-Gauthier
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (194 pgs)
Heat Level: Sweet
Rating: 3.5 stars
Reviewed by Poinsettia

Far from the all the action of World War I, in a charming tourist’s spot on Cape Breton Island, Elizabeth Eames has stumbled into the most wonderful man in the world. She’s landed herself in a world where wealth reigns supreme; where any eligible bachelor would meet her mother’s aspirations. Of course, she’s dead set on the one she’s certain should not be mentioned in her letters home. Actually, there’s a lot she’s not mentioning. Something is not-quite-right at the grand resort Oceanside, but Elizabeth isn’t giving up her one great chance…

Will Elizabeth’s time in Cape Breton be the adventure of a lifetime, or a huge mistake?

Elizabeth’s job at the Oceanside resort isn’t exactly her dream job, but, as her mother hoped, it has placed her in the midst of some very wealthy and well-connected bachelors. However, as Summer gives way to Fall, Elizabeth becomes convinced that something sinister is going on at the resort. Many of the guests are lingering long after the resort should have closed. They all have their reasons, but Elizabeth is skeptical. Are some of the guests up to no good, or is Elizabeth simply imagining things?

Elizabeth is a delightful character who finds beauty and magic in the world around her. She has a vivid imagination, and I enjoyed watching her create wonderfully detailed stories for people and places she encounters. While her imaginings might not be entirely accurate, they are certainly entertaining. I hope she never loses her ability to perceive the world in such a creative way.

Elizabeth’s heart is set on Daro from the moment she meets him. Unfortunately, he is neither wealthy nor well-connected. None of this matters to Elizabeth, and while she knows a future with Daro is unlikely, she endeavors to spend as much time with him as possible. I would have liked Elizabeth and Daro to have a stronger, more well-defined connection. It is abundantly clear how Elizabeth’s feels, but Daro’s feelings and intentions are a bit of a mystery until very close to the end of the story. However, I’m confident that they have the potential to be a great couple, and their happy ending is well deserved.

Overall, I enjoyed reading Trouble Cove. I recommend this book to anyone looking for a sweet, historical romance with just a hint of mystery and danger.

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Red Curtains by Leanna Sain

August 4, 2017 By Leave a Comment


Red Curtains by Leanna Sain
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (338 pgs)
Heat Level: Sweet
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Cleo Davis must find a model for her senior art project or she won’t graduate. When she discovers Lily Telfair-Gordon, she gets more than just an eccentric old woman who spouts famous quotes, talks to ghosts, and wears a weird hat. Lily has unwittingly stumbled upon a counterfeiting ring, and Cleo gets dragged right into the middle of it.

Jonas Holmes, an investigative reporter for the local paper, is asking the question: why do bodies of homeless men keep showing up in the river? But the homeless are scared and won’t talk to him. When he finds Cleo and Lily, he thinks his problems are solved; he doesn’t realize that they’re just beginning.

While romance blossoms between Cleo and Jonas, they work together to see how the two things are connected, but will they find out before it’s too late?

Just before the first chapter begins there is a note from the author that says “I alternate points of view between Cleo, Jonas, and Lily. Each chapter will tell you from whose eyes we’re viewing the story.”

I want to thank Ms. Sain for warning me that she’d alternate points of view between the main characters. I’ve never read a book written like that and I think that I would have been out of my element if I didn’t have that warning. I know I would not have enjoyed the book as much as I did. It took me a few chapters to get into the swing of it. It was an amazing ride once I figured out how to switch gears. It was really nifty to see different perspectives from the main characters especially when they were all involved in the suspense/mystery. It was like viewing a scene from three different angles. It’s hard to describe therefore I really suggest this book needs to be put on the must read list.

Why else should this book be on a must read list? You mean, besides for being a well written, unique and totally captivating plot? Well, it should be on a must read list for the love of the characters. They were well developed and unforgettable. Lily Telfair-Gordon, Jonas Holmes and Cleo – the three of them together make for a positively entertaining story. Cleo is the heroine of the story and not your typical heroine. In fact in the author’s note she explains her type of heroine and I quote, “I create main characters who are strong, creative, successful Southern women—GRITS, if you will. No, they’re not perfect, but they grow and overcome some pretty big obstacles, coming out stronger and more confident at the end.” That sums it up better than I ever could which is why I had no choice but to quote the author’s note again. I loved Cleo and found her relatable because many people experience shyness at one time or another. I loved how she overcame her shyness with the help of Lily. Lily was an amazing character as well. I especially enjoyed her famous quotes that were threaded throughout the novel. Jonas was the hero and while this was more than a romance story with all the suspense/mystery, there definitely was still the thread of a romance between Cleo and Jonas. It was sweet and blossomed slowly into a beautiful enduring relationship. Their romance could be considered most realistic and win a “most genuine couple” award. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Jonas right along with Cleo.

The synopsis explains there is the suspense/mystery of the counterfeiting ring and bodies of homeless men showing up in the river. I was on the edge of my seat. Talk about plot twists that were unpredictable. I don’t dare speak of it for fear of giving a spoiler.

I also wanted to mention the setting was in Savannah, Georgia. The author described it in a way that now I totally want to go there on vacation. I love cities with history such as St. Augustine, FL which I have visited. Unfortunately, homelessness is an issue in many big cities such as it is in Savannah Georgia and this novel brings the issue front and center but not in my face to the point that it detracted from the story. I was made aware of the issue through the character, Lily. I need to reference the authors note, again, because I think it’s important to tell future readers that the author stated that a portion of the proceeds from the sales of this book will go to the Stand Down program that was mentioned in the story to help the homeless in Savannah, Georgia.

In conclusion, Red Curtains was a wonderful book. It was well worth my time and I actually feel honored that I got to read this book. I don’t recall ever feeling that way about a book but this one touched my heart. I appreciate the time the author took to write a memorable novel for me to read that I won’t soon forget. Thank you. I encourage others to pick up this book and hopefully they’ll be as touched and as entertained as I was with this thrilling suspense/mystery romance.

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The Haunting of Hotel Labelle by Sharon Buchbinder

August 2, 2017 By 1 Comment


The Haunting of Hotel Labelle by Sharon Buchbinder
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc
Genre: Contemporary, Historical, Paranormal
Length: Full Length (201 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Orchid

When hotel inspector, Tallulah Thompson, is called in along with her pug, Franny, to investigate renovation delays, she meets an extremely annoyed and dapper turn-of-the-century innkeeper. The only problem is he’s in limbo, neither dead nor alive, and Tallulah and the pug are the first to see him in a hundred years. Cursed by a medicine woman, “Love ‘em and Leave ‘em Lucius” Stewart is stuck between worlds until he finds his true love and gives her his heart. When he first sees Tallulah, he doesn’t know what he’s feeling. Yet, her stunning beauty, and feisty attitude pull him in. With the fate of Hotel LaBelle on the line, Tallulah with the help of a powerful medicine woman turns Lucius back into a flesh and blood man. She and Lucius team up to save the hotel, but Tallulah can’t help but wonder if he will ever let go of his past love and learn to love again.

Lucius Stewart, owner of the Hotel LaBelle, loves Mourning Dove, a Native Indian of the Crow nation. When Mourning Dove dies her mother puts a curse on Lucius and he hovers between the spirit world and the real world unable to interact with either.

Over one hundred years later Tallulah Thompson arrives at the hotel to discover why it is losing money. It’s present owner is not what he originally seems to be and when Lucius discovers Tallulah can see him, he begins to follow her everywhere.

This is a ghost story with a twist as the ghost is a spirit out of his mortal body and technically not a ghost.

The concept of a woman falling for a spirit has been done before, but this story has the extra touch of Lucius trying to recover his life and his hotel.

The emotional impact of this story is well handled and this alone would tempt me, but there os also the hidden life of the new owner to be considered plus the way he is ruining the hotel. His actions anger Lucius and provide some comical moments.

Good book, well written and obviously well researched as well. Excellent.

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In Mistletoe by Tammy L. Bailey

July 31, 2017 By 3 Comments


In Mistletoe by Tammy L. Bailey
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (290 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

At twenty-five, Grace Evans is steadily picking up the pieces of everyone else’s life. So, when her younger sister decides to turn into a runaway bride just four weeks before the wedding, Grace, drops everything to chase after her and bring her back home. Only, when the trail leads to Mistletoe, Washington, she finds herself at the mercy of the town’s most handsome and emotionally unavailable bachelor.

Ex-Army officer, Ayden McCabe, has three creeds in life: never make the first move, never fall in love, and never take anyone to Mistletoe’s Christmas Dance. Wanting nothing more than to keep his matchmaking sister from meddling in his personal life, he agrees to help Grace if she agrees to play his girlfriend. Too brunette and meek for his taste, Ayden believes Grace can’t tempt him enough to break any of his creeds. He could not be more wrong.

In Mistletoe captured my heart from the first page. Has this book been made into a Hallmark Christmas movie yet? I won’t be surprised to find out if it has or if it is going to be made into one eventually. I’m ready to celebrate the Christmas season. Too bad it’s the middle of July. This book really put me in the mood to walk under some mistletoe. LOL

I found the writing style made a well written piece of work that flowed effortlessly. At first I thought the plot wasn’t original as I’ve read several “agree to play his girlfriend” stories but this one had its own unique twist to that age old plot thread which was a surprising and pleasantly entertaining read.

Being careful not to give a spoiler, I need to recap the synopsis when it says that Grace is searching for her sister and the trail leads her to Mistletoe and to the town’s most handsome and emotionally unavailable bachelor. Ayden agrees to help Grace find her sister if she helps him to get his sister to stop meddling in his personal life. I had an issue with the fact that Grace gets so distracted by Ayden that she feels guilty for neglecting to find her sister which is the entire reason that she’s in Mistletoe. All I can say is that I’m glad I was able to look beyond that flaw because it paid off. There is much more to this story than meets the eye.

Grace has several layers to her character. Some layers were annoying but her history justifies those annoyances and I was able to look past them. Same goes for Ayden though his annoying qualities were different than hers and for different reasons. Ayden and Grace were a believable couple because his strengths were her weaknesses. Therefore, as the saying goes, opposites attract. I could feel the tension and chemistry as if I was the character myself.

Having said, I found the hero and heroine to be a bit annoying and that had me finding them completely relatable. They had me cracking up several times with their witty humor. The scene where he finds the particular book that she was reading and the location she had bookmarked had me crying with tears. My husband and I had that exact scene in real life. Hilarious!

I was pleased with the ending of the book. I loved how Grace’s mom was redeemed and Ayden’s parents ended on a positive note. This book was like a Vidalia onion, which by the way is one of my favorite onions. You know, sweet with many layers but still having the ability to make you cry while making everything taste better. This book gave me that feel good feeling on many levels and I’d recommend others to read In Mistletoe without any reservations.

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In Pursuit of Paradise by Kate Randle

July 28, 2017 By 1 Comment


In Pursuit of Paradise by Kate Randle
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full Length (186 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rate: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Ship captain Nicholas Becket knows he needs to change his playboy ways. And when he discovers beautiful divorcee Lily Kingston at a job fair for his cruise line, he thinks he has found someone who can reform him. Lily is looking for a change of her own but she isn’t prepared for Nick and all of his baggage. Not to mention her own scars from the recent past. Although she is fiercely attracted to the handsome and dashing millionaire, an unexpected event threatens to tear them apart forever. Can this pair of lost souls overcome the stormy waters of life’s ups and downs in order to find their true paradise?

I’ve been waiting my whole adult life to read a romance book whose setting was on a cruise ship. Finally, I found one and it was amazingly accurate. The writing style was excellent. I could visualize the ship and it felt like I was there. It’s been six months since my last cruise and now I want to go on another one to find my own man just like the hero, Nicholas Becket. I refuse to accept that a man like the character Nicholas Becket doesn’t exist somewhere and I need him to come take me away.

Nicholas Becket is a blonde haired, blue eyed, physically fit, humble millionaire. He also just happens to be the ship’s captain. I love a man in uniform and Nicholas Becket was described as a fine looking gentleman. Did I mention he was the captain of a cruise ship?

Lily was looking for a change in her life and she deserved some happiness after what she’s gone through. I really liked Lily and I liked her more when she was with Nicholas. They brought out the good in each other. I respected that she was a hard worker and not interested in Nicholas’s money or what he could do for her. Lily had pride and self-respect, qualities I admire in a heroine. I was envious of all her good fortune. Perhaps she could have been a bit more hard to get but let’s be real, we’re talking about Nicholas. It’s easy to judge someone when we’re not in their shoes. I let that quality flaw in Lilly slide since we’re talking about my ideal book boyfriend.

Honestly, the plot was fairly predictable but I didn’t care. I thoroughly enjoyed the blossoming romance between Lily and Nicholas. I genuinely was concerned when the unexpected event happened that almost tore them apart. You’ll have to read for yourself to find out what that event was and how they found their way to their happily ever after.

I definitely have no qualms about recommending this book. It’s a perfect, quick read – all the better if you’re going on a cruise.

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Christmas 911 by Lori Leger

July 27, 2017 By Leave a Comment


Christmas 911 by Lori Leger
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
Length: Full Length (270 pgs)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Corinne Ritter’s life changes drastically after she loses her husband twice in the same night. Several months later, the Texas native is en route to a family gathering early on Christmas Eve when an emergency shopping trip lands her in the middle of a robbery turned hostage situation. As circumstances deteriorate, she receives a shred of hope in the faceless presence of the 911 dispatcher she only “knows” by the soothing sound of his voice.

Luke Oliver is counting down to the end of his dispatch shift, anxious to begin his chillaxing tropical vacation. When a frantic caller asks for him, he has no idea it’s the faceless Cori he’s assisted on two prior occasions. He remains with her throughout the crisis, becoming her calming influence throughout the storm.

But will Luke be able to walk away when the time comes, or will this single 911 call change his life forever?

“911…What’s your emergency?” “Oh, I’m sorry. I just read a smoking hot romance book and I think I’m on fire.” I’m totally, burning for the hero, Luke Oliver. Joking aside, I’ve had to call 911 a few times in my life and I’ve never had an operator that sounded sexy. My life is so unfair. LOL!

I almost didn’t pick this book to read when I read the synopsis and it stated, “Corinne Ritter’s life changes drastically after she loses her husband twice in the same night.” It just didn’t make sense to me but after I read the story it totally makes sense. In fact, it’s the beginning of an ingenious plot. I’m not sure how realistic it is but anything is possible, I found Christmas 911 to be one hundred percent entertaining.

As I reflected on the heroine, Cori, I experienced many emotions. There are many thoughts I’d like to share but I can’t without spoiling the numerous plot twists. It’s safe to say that I was happy for Cori, sad for her, scared for her, worried for her and even laughed with her. She was by far one of the most relatable heroines that I’ve read in a long time.

Luke was calm, stable and had unwavering strength when necessary. He was very sensitive and attentive to Cori’s needs which I found endearing. If I was going through a crisis I’d like to have Luke by my side. I also enjoyed Luke and Cori’s relationship because together they were quick-witted and quite funny. It was easy to see where Luke and Cori got their sense of humor. Both of their families were comical.

The synopsis tells you that Cori stops for a last minute shopping trip on Christmas Eve that lands her in the middle of a robbery turned hostage situation. That single event was a pivotal moment that had me on the edge of my seat. It was a riveting storyline that added suspense throughout the plot.

There are a few things I’d like to mention that earned my respect towards the author. I loved how she addressed the importance of family, camaraderie among police officers/military and the support of breast feeding. I especially respected the argument in the elevator regarding the “education person.”

I can’t say this book was predictable. I did not see that ending coming at all. Wow! I’m feeling frustrated that I can’t speak about it. It was a Wow! ending. A fishing enthusiast will love it way more than I did. 🙂

This was a very good book. I’m glad that I was the one that got to review it. This book would make a great Christmas present for my friends. I definitely recommend this book for those looking for a unique heartwarming love story and/or a reader that believes in true love and that anything is possible.

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One Truth Revealed by Robena Grant

July 24, 2017 By 24 Comments


One Truth Revealed by Robena Grant
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full (268 pgs)
Heat: Spicy
Rated: 4 stars
Review by Poppy

At thirty-five-years of age, and with pressure from her adoptive mother, Lina Bright is ten days away from undergoing Artificial Insemination in London. She doesn’t need a husband. She travels to Oldcastle to meet her biological mother, a spinster who runs a village teashop. To keep her mother’s secret, but determine her father’s identity, she creates the cover of scouting for property to start a new school.

A bachelor at forty, Drew Compton is an English Professor in Oxford. Diagnosed with “poor swimmers” his fiancée left him. He plans to live out his life alone, with his books. Disliking his mother’s secrets and controlling ways, he seldom returns to Oldcastle. But a chance meeting has him intrigued. Who is this chic Londoner?

As Lina’s plans for a school become a reality, romance blossoms, but roadblocks ensue.

Will Lina and Drew trust in each other to overcome the difficulties and create a future together?

With a passel of adorable characters to drive this story, One Truth Revealed was both entertaining and enchanting.

I have to admit first off that I didn’t love the start of this book. Lina felt vaguely “stalkerish” when she saw a cute guy in a car and follows him to his destination, then positions herself in a manner to meet with him. I don’t think he realized what was going on, but I was a little icked out by her behavior. Drew, however, was absolutely charming and I could see why Lina was intrigued by him. Conveniently, he was on his way to the same small town she was. And once I got to know Lina better, I was definitely on her side.

Once they reached Oldcastle, things really got fun and busy. I really adore small town stories, because everyone is always all up in everyone else’s business and it’s just a hoot. While not laugh-out-loud funny, I did have a smile on my face quite often while reading. I just adored so many of the folks there!

I appreciated Lina’s attempts to figure out who her father was and I loved how she integrated herself into the townspeople’s lives. She was as charmed as I was–most of the time. But there are so many secrets and lies, some generations old, that it causes problems with her goals, and with her relationship with Drew. I appreciated the somewhat slower pace of the book as it felt exactly right with the setting and characters as well.

If you like a character driven story, with a romance between somewhat more mature characters (Lina is 35, Drew is 40) I can definitely recommend this. My quibbles were few and my enjoyment was high.

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Silent Justice by Kallie Lane

July 19, 2017 By Leave a Comment


Silent Justice by Kallie Lane
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (172 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

When Rena O’Mally is kidnapped by a violent underworld kingpin, she enters a world where her only means of escape is in her sleep. She knows her chances of survival and returning to the man she has fallen for are slim to none.

Blue Falcone, commanding officer of an elite taskforce, races against time to find her. Taken on his watch, Rena means more to him than a woman in jeopardy should, and it scares him senseless. Worse than that, when she manages to escape, her enemy keeps coming after her.

Blue wants her in protective custody and out of harm’s way, but Rena has other ideas. She plans to bait the trap to catch this madman. As Rena’s life spins out of control, she and Blue face each challenge together. Will love give them the strength to defy the odds, or will they lose each other in the fray?

For a story that is only one hundred and seventy two pages it sure did pack a punch. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time flipping pages. If my fingernails weren’t cut short I probably would have chewed them from all the never ending suspense. If you’re looking for a quick romance story filled with action then this will meet your needs.

Rena O’Mally, the heroine, was dealt an unfortunate deck of cards at life at a young age and made some choices that directed the course of her life. Caught up in a change of events that appeared out of her control she finally decides enough is enough and no longer wants to be defined by her past. I could feel the attempt of the writer to redeem Rena and make her appear as a strong leading lady. However, Rena was a delicate balance of vulnerable and strong-will qualities that, when mixed together, made her character more than tolerable but not completely admirable in my eyes. I just wished she had turned on her listening ears when she was told to listen. Her lack of listening skills was most annoying.

There could have been other ways to add to the suspense element other than the heroine needing to be constantly rescued due to her in ability to follow directions. It was borderline unrealistic. The plot was not original no matter how many twists were implemented but it was still an entertaining read.

The hero, Blue Falcone, was your stereotypical commanding officer of an elite taskforce who develops feelings for the woman he’s supposed to keep watch over. He had all the connections necessary to call in for back up to save the day no matter how many times he needed to save the day. His team members were briefly introduced but weren’t well defined characters. I developed a stronger connection to Rena’s rescued cat, Tigz.

I did feel the connection between Rena and Blue. I always fall for that damsel in distress ploy, which is why I could tolerate Rena’s inability to listen. The pickles she got herself into allowed me to enjoy feeling those swoon-worthy moments of ‘Ooh! and Ahh!” because they showcased Blue’s amazing heroism.

The violent underworld kingpin just wasn’t going give up and that plot hook kept me riveted until the end. I had to see how Blue Falcone was finally going to save the day, once and for all. Just like the synopsis alluded to, will Rena and Blue’s love for one another give them the strength to defy the odds? Or, will they lose each other in the fray? You’ll need to read the story to find out.

As much as Blue was always racing against time, I wanted the time to slow down and the book to not end. I was content with the ending and pleased with the closure that was provided. I didn’t consider this book a waste of my time and would recommend it to others. This is another one of those books for which I didn’t need my morning coffee to wake up. 🙂

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Camelot Games by Oliver F. Chase

July 18, 2017 By Leave a Comment


Camelot Games by Oliver F. Chase
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full Length (418 pages)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Stargazer

When a secret political machine maneuvers California war hero, Scott McHale and his beautiful activist wife, Angie into running for political office, an entirely new and frightening evil is unleashed upon the American public. As the wildly popular Latino couple’s success and independence grow, hidden kingmakers quietly put into play a plan designed to plunge the nation into chaos. Nothing and no one is out of bounds. Treachery and treason, murder and manufactured mayhem propel an unsuspecting Scott and Angie closer and closer to the Oval Office. But when Scott goes off script, he suddenly vanishes in a smokescreen of sexual innuendo and scandal. A bereft and bitter Angie is left behind to continue their golden legacy alone. Will she discover the truth in time to prevent civil war?

How close is the United States to the brink of civil war? The answer may surprise you.

Powerful individuals stand behind major corporations and influence the power play of American government. When Scott McHale is tapped to take up political office, he finds himself caught in the movement of a political shift that challenges everything he knows and his love for his country. When things begin to spiral out of control, Scott goes missing and his wife, Angie, steps up to take the lead in the reshaping of the American political landscape.

Camelot Games is an extremely well researched, deeply thought out and fantastic journey of choices that shape the United States of America. The political climate, the deep unrest and the desire to change the future is often seen in popular media today. Oliver F. Chase brings these ideas forward with the backing of a corporate superpower. Divisions begin within the political landscape immediately and the media is used as a tool to propagate the destruction of the United States.

Oliver F. Chase uses intense dialogue, deep backstories, and powerful characters to shape the story. Deep plots run throughout the story and the author sets the stage for each character shaping his or her own destiny with very real thoughts, concerns and fears. The author also leaves no stone unturned when narrating from the top of the hierarchy to those that are working in the trenches to change the world.

I found myself deeply engrossed in the story, making a connection with each character. The fantastic storytelling by Oliver F. Chase makes it so that the characters are fully formed-even characters that show up in small parts have very real life stories behind them. Even the hackers infiltrating the government systems have backstories and these are elegantly told so that the reader can understand why they have done what they have.

You don’t want to miss Camelot Games by Oliver F. Chase; this will cause you to take a long hard look at how the political system is set up!

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A Kiss Under the Christmas Lights by Peggy Jaeger

July 17, 2017 By 3 Comments


A Kiss Under the Christmas Lights by Peggy Jaeger
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
Length: Short Story (138 pgs)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

With Christmas just a few weeks away, Gia San Valentino, the baby in her large, loud, and loving Italian family, yearns for a life and home of her own with a husband and bambini she can love and spoil. The single scene doesn’t interest her, and the men her well-meaning family introduce her to aren’t exactly the happily-ever-after kind.

Tim Santini believes he’s finally found the woman for him, but Gia will take some convincing she’s that girl. A misunderstanding has her thinking he’s something he’s not.

Can a kiss stolen under the Christmas lights persuade her to spend the rest of her life with him?

When I started reading A Kiss under the Christmas Lights, the first thing that hit me immediately was the writing style. It is important to stress that if you are like me and dislike books that are written in first person point of view, please give this book a chance like I did. I admit that when I started reading the first page I was like, “Oh, no!”, and was about to decline the chance to read it. But, with the first Italian lesson on page two? I was drawn so completely into the story I forgot I was reading a first person point of view. That itself is a testimony to the writing style. I have to give praise where praise is due. I was shocked that I enjoyed the entire book considering my pet peeve over first person romance books. Well done Peggy Jaeger! I enjoyed how Ms. Jaeger incorporated Italian lessons throughout the story. I’m not Italian but I have friends that are and the author hit the nail on the head with how she described this Italian family in the book.

As for the plot, again I was thrown for a loop. Maybe I should have mentioned the plot first in the initial paragraph. I don’t know which I’m more excited about, the writing style or the plot. It was clever and original. The misunderstanding that is mentioned in the synopsis was so effective, I simply could not put the book down. It was worth every minute I spent reading. A Kiss under the Christmas Lights was a quick read and I just might read it a second time because I wasn’t fully prepared for what I was about to experience. It was unpredictable and yet I’m surprised I didn’t figure it out sooner than I did. Regardless, when I did figure it out, the revelation was priceless – absolutely the best misunderstanding one could invent. I’m dying to blurt it out but that wouldn’t be fun or fair to future readers.

The heroine, Gia, and the hero, Tim, are perfect for each other. They are an example of fate. They were destined to meet each other and fall in love. I loved where and how they met and I enjoyed how their story evolved especially that misunderstanding. I can’t wipe the smile off my face. The ending was so sweet my teeth ached. I was left feeling a happy book glow.

If it isn’t obvious by what I’ve already written then you’re missing the point. This is a must read, especially if you’re Italian and even if you’re not. I hope you’ll laugh as much as I did. I absolutely would be proud to recommend this book. I have learned a valuable lesson for the future. I won’t be so negative about books written in first person POV. A Kiss under the Christmas Lights was a sheer delight!

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