Moonlight Over Mistletoe

by Janet Koops

In the enchanting town of Mistletoe, Alaska, where Christmas reigns supreme year-round, Eleanor Frost, the self-proclaimed holiday humbug, finds herself caught in a dance of destiny. Once a renowned dance instructor and now a widow with a heart frozen by loss, Eleanor's world is turned upside down when she twirls into the arms of Christopher, a fellow widower.

Both recognizing that they could use a friend, Eleanor and Christopher embark on an exhilarating journey through the snowy streets, uncovering the magic of the season together.

But just as sparks begin to fly between them, Christopher's dedication to his job threatens to pull them apart. Facing a crossroads between love and obligation, Chris must choose whether to follow his heart or uphold tradition. And Eleanor, refusing to be left in the shadows, must decide if she is willing to risk it all for a chance at true love.

In a tale that blurs the line between reality and fantasy, join Eleanor and Christopher as they navigate the intricate steps of romance amidst the glittering lights of Mistletoe. Will they succumb to the enchantment of the season and find solace in each other's arms? Only time will tell in this spellbinding story of rediscovering joy, embracing love, and believing in the magic of Christmas once more.

181 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2024

Reviews

[Zara_bookworld · Rating 3 out of 5]

Easy read! Cute little Christmas story to get you in the Christmas spirit!

[Sudeshna Banerjee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Step into the charming world of “Moonlight Over Mistletoe,” a delightful holiday novella that captures the spirit of Christmas in the whimsical town of Mistletoe, Alaska, where festive cheer lingers all year long. Here, we meet Eleanor Frost; a self-styled Grinch and former dance instructor with a heavy heart, still mourning the loss of her husband. However, her winter of solitude takes a surprising twist when she crosses paths with Christopher, her new neighbor and kindred spirit, who also carries the weight of loss. As they traverse the picturesque, snow-covered streets of Mistletoe, an undeniable chemistry ignites between them. Yet, Christopher’s unwavering commitment to his work looms like a snowstorm, threatening to distance them. Now, Eleanor and Christopher find themselves at a pivotal juncture, forced to choose between the allure of new love and the steadfast call of their past traditions. Will they dare to embrace their hearts, or will duty keep them apart?

Janet Koops masterfully crafts her characters, rendering them both relatable and charming. Eleanor emerges as a resilient yet fragile protagonist, wrestling with her sorrow and hesitance to welcome the festive cheer. In contrast, Christopher is characterized as compassionate and dedicated, caught in the tug-of-war between his duties and his burgeoning affection for Eleanor. Their emotional arcs are intricately woven, enabling readers to deeply resonate with their challenges and victories.

Janet Koops' style of writing is descriptive and captivating, bringing out the magic and wonder of the holiday season. The dialogue is realistic and smooth, adding to the rapport between characters. The addition of holiday-specific elements, like the sparkling lights and festive atmosphere of Mistletoe, creates a warm and welcoming tone in the story.

The novella is about love, loss, and the strength of the holiday season to unite people. It also points out the need to welcome joy and to find comfort in other people. The novella also touches on the theme of finding oneself again and the courage to be open to new opportunities.

Janet Koops uses different literary devices to enrich the story, such as descriptive language, emotional depth, and significant character interactions. The setting of the magical town of Mistletoe provides a whimsical and magical environment.

The pacing of the novella is good, with a slow but steady development of romance and emotional intensity. The organization is strong, with a logical sequence of events that builds to a fulfilling ending. The readability is high, and the book is an easy and satisfying read for anyone who enjoys holiday stories and contemporary romance.

"Moonlight Over Mistletoe" is a delightful and cheerful novella that provides a whole and fulfilling story. Its well-developed characters, warm feelings, and festive nostalgia make it ideal for a cold winter's night. Although the novella has some weak points, including some contrived plot points, its strengths compensate for these faults. I would suggest this book to anyone in search of a warm holiday romance with a hint of enchantment.

[Kira K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is book 3 in the Kringle Cousin Romance series but like the others it can be read as a standalone, I kinda did a bit of both having read the first book but missed the second. Although after remembering how great the residents of Mistletoe are. The romance is between two older characters and I liked that they were both bereaved instead of just one as they could connect on a deeper level which we see happen on a few occasions. I loved seeing Nora and her cheeky personality again and it was great to see the characters from the other books being included, but not in a way that stopped me understanding the story despite missing Jack’s story. It was also interesting to see one of the original mean characters developing. Overall this is a sweet short romance book that isn’t too intensely christmassy with a fun dance competition element as well.

Favourite Quote:
“Sometimes the most magic is hidden in plain sight. We just need the right moment to discover it.”

[Margaret Hejmanowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all things Janet Koops, and this does not disappoint!! This is the third book in The Kringle Cousin series, even though I have not read the two previous books; I had no trouble following the storyline. Eleanor Frost is a self proclaimed humbug. She is a widow with her heart frozen from the loss of her husband Carl; more than twenty years ago. The town hall is in major need of repairs, and the town needs to raise money. Eleanor suggests a ballroom dance competition. She had owned a dance studio with her late husband. Christopher Kringle a widower, and Head Santa; is in favor of Eleanor's idea. He had danced with Eleanor at his grandsons wedding, and thought he was floating on air. Is Eleanor's idea accepted? Can they raise the money they need to save the historic town hall? Love the plot, great setting, and strong intense interesting characters. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Janet Koops!!!

[Stephanie Roy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Moonlight Over Mistletoe by Janet Koops, while a festive story, may feel underwhelming for some readers, hence the 2.5-star rating. The plot follows Eleanor, a widowed dance instructor, and Christopher, a fellow widower, as they slowly reconnect with the magic of the season and one another. Although the Alaskan town of Mistletoe is charming, the storyline can come off as predictable, and the romance lacks depth, with few surprises. The pacing may feel slow, and some readers find the chemistry between the leads to be mild rather than captivating. For fans of straightforward holiday tales, it might be a cozy read, but for those seeking complexity or more emotional pull, it might fall short.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank BookSirens for it!

[C.Y. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Janet once again provides a captivating narrative. This redemption story of the town's grump is particularly compelling. We gain insight into Eleanor's motivations for being spiteful and critical over the years. This newfound understanding evokes both sympathy and sadness. Eleanor's encounter with Christopher sparks a connection she hasn't experienced in years, and the same can be said for him. Their chemistry is undeniable. It's heartwarming to read a love story about two older individuals. Although their exact ages are not specified, it's likely they are in their sixties. Regardless, their story is utterly charming. It's a narrative that will leave you smiling and believing in the magic of Christmas.

I was given an advanced copy of this book for free and I’m leaving my review voluntarily.

[Melynda Wangsness · Rating 5 out of 5]

"It could be awful... or it could be marvelous [...]"

What a quick and thoughtful Christmas read!

I received an advance review copy and I am sharing my honest opinion.

This is a short and easy read that keeps us enjoying the town of Mistletoe that we came to love in the first two Kringle Cousins Romance books. The tale of Eleanor brings back all the emotion and thoughtfulness that we enjoyed in the first Kringle book!

While there isn't additional world building in this read (so I personal think reading the series in order enhances the experience), the character development in this read is deep and emotional. There are themes of love and loss that we can all relate too, with the stages that come with them.

This is a wonderful continuation of the series and Christmas themes. Enjoy the spirit of this lovely read!

[Lia Lorimer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet, well written story that was read in a day
Eleanor, a long-time widow and ex-professional ballroom dancer, who is aware that she is known as Mistletoe’s Christmas Grinch, undergoes a change in attitude when the town is faced with a potential disaster. As she involves herself in its resolution, she discovers that the community welcomes her ideas and is far more supportive than she has always perceived.
I did not initially realise that this novella is part of a series, with characters common to all the books; however, I gained the impression that Eleanor’s story is unique to this title, which made it easier to engage with her.
The magic of Christmas, with Christopher at the centre of Eleanor’s thoughts, makes this a ‘light-hearted-with-added-depth’ book to read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shilo Goodson · Rating 4 out of 5]

While this book can be read on its own, I would recommend reading the other two books first. This book was a little cheesier than the previous two books in the series. It involves Eleanor Frost, who's been a bit of a grump since the death of her husband, and Christopher Kringle, the head Santa. They are a bit older then the romantic couples in the previous two books. It's a quick read, and it's a cute story, but it was just a bit too cheesy for my taste for it to be a 5-star story.

There's no swearing, sexual content, or violence in this book. It takes place mostly just a little before Christmas, but it is a Christmas town, so there's a lot of Christmas spirit in the story.

I got a free ARC from BookSirens, and I left a voluntary review.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the third book of the series, the town of Mistletoe is again having problems. A surprising person develops one of the ways for the town to raise money - a ballroom dancing competition. It is none other than Eleanor Frost, the resident grump and pessimist.

As the story progresses, you learn her history and see her start to reach out to the community. Her kind heart starts to show and she gains some confidence as well. Then Christopher Kringle helps with some of his special magic as well. But change is hard for both of them and he is the one that pulls back. Will he make the move to reach back out?

A delightful quick romance that brings joy to your heart.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[R.S.05 · Rating 3 out of 5]

The third book in the Kringle Cousin Romance series - even though the MMC wasn't a Kringle cousin, but a Kringle grandpa.

This was a cute, Christmassy book, containing a good deal of the cozy and sweet elements that's associated with Christmas.

Eleanor and Christopher were cute together, but I feel like there was something missing - I wanted a bit more depth in their relationship, it felt a bit rushed.

Also, it may have caught me a bit off guard that this was a later in life romance book - I thought we were only meeting and seeing the relationship to the Kringle cousins.

All in all, I think this was a cute, Christmas book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Patty Duplechin · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love Christmas stories and Christmas Magic, this book is for you. Christopher Kringle and Eleanor Frost are two special people who have lost the love of their lives but now they may have a second chance at love. All of this takes place in Mistletoe, Alaska. It’s a magical place where it’s Christmas every day. Can the two finally figure out and accept that it’s okay to move on. After all it’s been years since the two were widowed. Will these wonderful characters finally have the second chance at love? Will Christopher tell his secret? Will she accept that he’s Santa Claus? Loved this story. It’s a worth the read. Janet Koops makes you believe in Santa and the Christmas magic. I received this book for my honest review. I give it voluntarily.

[Teri Radogna-linquist · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was another great Christmas cozy mystery. Another Kringle clan story with just enough mystery, romance and redemption to keep you engaged. While Eleanor's character is difficult to like in the beginning, her self awareness grows as she allows more of her story to come out and shape her future.

If you like easy to read stories that involve a bit of snow, a bit of romance, a bit of mystery and the possibility of redemption you will enjoy this next chapter in the Kringle family saga.

Thank you to the author and BookSirens for allowing me the opportunity to read this ARC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moonlight Over Mistletoe is Book 3 in the Kringle Cousin Romance series by Janet Koops. This series is set in Alaska where the town is always a Christmas theme. Since it is October, the tree has pumpkins and bats with tiny Santa hats. This Kringle story has top Santa, Christopher Kringle, with feelings for Eleanor. Older love is sweet, but, the path is just as hard ad young love. I think this holiday story is wonderful. Get your coca with a peppermint cane and escape into a winter wonderland. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Vickie Chaisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is truly full of Christmas spirit, hope, trust and for two mature characters maybe a chance of love again. This author definitely connects with the small town Christmas feeling with a little magic thrown in. Christopher Kringle and Eleanore Frost seem an unlikely couple until the magic of Christmans and some Santa magic turn two people who have lost love before consider taking on a chance at love again. All the characters in this small town helped give weight to a beautiful story. You will feel good while reading and those feelings will linger in you mind. Really enjoyed this book.

[Sheri Bolinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet book that keeps up with the other Mistletoe books. This was Christopher and Eleanor's story. It was great to see the straight laced, dare I say grumpy Eleanor be brought back to life through dancing. We get to learn her story and why she is the way she is. My heart just broke for her. I loved to see her passion come alive again and her views on so much change. Christopher was terrific! He was kind and patient but had his own fears and scars to work through. This story was such a sweet reminder that life and love can be full of second chances.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eleanor has always been stand offish with people and sarcastic with her comments. She runs into Christopher literally, but she is cordial to him. Mistletoe’s city hall needs to be overhauled so Eleanor’s plan is a ballroom dancing competition.
I enjoyed this book, when Eleanor and Christopher went ice fishing or dancing in a meadow. The characters are likable and relatable in their own way. A relatively short, clean romance.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moonlight Over Mistletoe is a magical, Christmas romance. Eleanor, the town grump, suggests a ballroom dance competition as a fundraiser. This novella has all the charm of the first two books in the series, but you do not have to have read those to enjoy this book. As Eleanor Frost and Christopher Kringle take to the dance floor, will something more develop? Just suspend reality and believe for the short time it takes to read this charming tale!

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have enjoyed this Kringle series. Where I'm at in life right now I can easily relate to Christopher Kringle's and Eleanor Frost's story.

Author is good at descriptions an would love to see what Mistletoe is like; especially the beautiful translucent dome and how that was turned into a winter wonderland. Good storyline throughout.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this Mistletoe, Alaska setting. This sweet small town comes alive off the page. This charming, later in life romance brings all the Christmas spirit, hope and inspiration in this adorable story. It's well written and has just enough drama to keep you interested. It's an easy read with wonderful characters with so much heart. A heartwarming holiday read with a touch of Christmas magic you won't want to miss.

[M Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet romance set in Mistletoe, Alaska that explores the sense of community found in a small town and the joy of Christmas in a town that celebrates Christmas througout the year.
Enter Christopher Kringle and Eleanor Frost, who have both lost their beloved partner years ago and have the option of a second chance at love if only they are brave enough to explore the possibility. I read it in one evening, most enjoyable.

[GOLE · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely story! I enjoyed this book very much. Eleanor Frost and Christopher Kringle seemed like an unlikely pairing, but are actually perfect for each other. I love the little touch of magic in this story!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Great Christmas story. Eleanor is unhappy but when the town needs help fundraising she opens up herself to helping. Christopher Kringle is there to help in anyway he can. Can she trust him & will he trust her with his secrets?

[Carolina De La Torre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Moonlight over Mistletoe| 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I loved it! I liked how it’s a very different plot compared to the other two books. Also, how the story portraits that it’s never too late to try again, to love again.

It was a bit more cheesy than the other too but I loved it.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Suze82 · Rating 4 out of 5]

made me smile

I just love small towns and christmas themed books and when two lonely hearts like Eleanor and Christopher find love around christmastime, it´s a perfect read for me, no wonder Janet is one of my favourite authors.

[CORINNE · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily voluntarily

Well I think I believe in Santa again!🥰

A lovely romantic story of an older generation still finding love

Loved it absolutely charming story thank you

[Glenna Turney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent book from Janet Koops.

Kringle Cousin Romance book 3 was so endearing and just over all sweet. Actually can bring you to tears at one point. Highly recommend starting with the first book in the series.

*I received this book from BookSirens. Thank You!

[Janice Pauc · Rating 3 out of 5]

Third book in series. Cute. Totally predictable.

[Wendi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing read!!

From the very first word I knew this would be good. I had no idea how great it would be! Could not put it down!

[Terry S · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick read to jump start the Christmas season. A magical story.