Paws For Christmas by Anna Swann
Publisher: Champagne Books
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday, Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by MistflowerEmily Saint-Claire has one Christmas wish: to take a few weeks off from her demanding job as co-CEO of Bow-Wow Enterprises, an international nonprofit organization that matches rescue dogs with people who need rescuing. She is just hours away from hopping into the car with her pup, Gracie, and driving to her parents’ home in the mountains when a series of disasters strike.
First, a text from her ex. Next, a humiliating TV interview, in which she tearfully reveals she wants a new job. And the worst blow of all: A surprise work assignment that will take her to the picturesque country of Marisol to cover the prestigious Royal International Canine Invitation dog show. Yes, it’s a dream assignment, but she’s exhausted and homesick.
Emily cancels her vacation plans and reluctantly flies to Marisol, convinced Christmas is ruined. But is it?
When she meets a disheveled stranger, she assumes he’s a freelance photographer. Wrong. He’s the prince of Marisol. Emily is beyond embarrassed, but the prince is intrigued and extends a gracious apology—she must be his guest at the palace, where she can work without interruption.
Yet, instead of peace and quiet, Emily finds happy chaos, thanks to frequent visits by the widowed prince’s two curious children and their shoe-munching dog. Increasingly, she finds herself anticipating their visits. And increasingly, she finds herself attracted to Prince Alexander, who shares her love for animals. In a season of surprises, Emily learns that love comes when we least expect it.
This was a really cute book. I was in the mood to read a Christmas story in the summer heat and this one satisfied my craving. While the synopsis reveals most of the story it’s still worth the time to read the story in action. The effort that was put forward in developing the cast of characters was impressive.
The reader is presented with the opportunity to get to know the heroine, Emily, long before the hero, Alexander is ever introduced. Emily is a woman who works too hard and wants more than just work in her life. A reality all too real for many women in today’s world. It’s a struggle to find that happy balance. I bonded with Emily immediately as we share a love for dogs.
I got a giggle when Emily did finally meet Alexander in a mistaken identity scene. It was a pleasure to turn the pages as their romance budded and bloomed until the last page with a happily-ever-after love.
Alexander was kind, generous and compassionate. It was relaxing to read his pursuit of Emily. Together they were entertaining especially when Emily was learning to dance. The chemistry between them was sensual and irresistible.
This was my first Anna Swann romance book, and I would consider another book by her. I treasured the inspirational message that was threaded through out the story that “sometimes life’s biggest disappointments lead to its greatest joys.” Anna Swann wrote that quote in her “Dear Reader” note in the beginning of the story. It makes me think of Garth Brooks’ song “Unanswered Prayers” where he sings “Cuz some of God’s greatest gifts are unanswered prayers”.
Paws for Christmas left me feeling full of hope and joy. Definitely pick this book up if you are craving a holiday romance.
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