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Lake Mistletoe #4
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe: A Holly, Jolly, and Steamy Christmas Tale
I am a ballet dancer from New York City, currently in Lake Mistletoe, Idaho, to perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker at the Sun Valley Ski Resort. After my breakup with my boyfriend, I needed a break from my fast-paced life. This quiet, snow-covered town seemed like the perfect escape. Staying at The Gingerbread Inn feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. However, what really catches me off guard is Dutch.
Dutch is the electrical engineer working on the sets, and he's a single dad to Josie, an adorable little girl who loves ballet. As I bond with Josie, I find myself drawn to Dutch in a way I didn’t expect, and the life I left behind in Manhattan starts to feel distant. He’s a different kind of distraction. He’s not the type of guy I usually go for—he’s all flannel, muscle, and practicality. But there’s something about him that’s hard to ignore.
What starts as a hot holiday fling turns into something more, and I begin to wonder if small-town life, with its snow-covered streets and warm, welcoming people, is what I’ve been searching for. Maybe Lake Mistletoe isn’t just a temporary stop but the beginning of my second chance at love.
Dutch is the electrical engineer working on the sets, and he's a single dad to Josie, an adorable little girl who loves ballet. As I bond with Josie, I find myself drawn to Dutch in a way I didn’t expect, and the life I left behind in Manhattan starts to feel distant. He’s a different kind of distraction. He’s not the type of guy I usually go for—he’s all flannel, muscle, and practicality. But there’s something about him that’s hard to ignore.
What starts as a hot holiday fling turns into something more, and I begin to wonder if small-town life, with its snow-covered streets and warm, welcoming people, is what I’ve been searching for. Maybe Lake Mistletoe isn’t just a temporary stop but the beginning of my second chance at love.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2024
47 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Amber Kelly
41 books930 followersAmber Kelly is a romance author that calls North Carolina home. She has been an avid reader from a young age and you could always find her with her nose in a book completely enthralled in an adventure. With the support of her husband and family, in 2018, she decided to finally give a voice to the stories in her head and her debut novel, Both of Me was born. You can connect with Amber on Facebook at facebook.com/AuthorAmberKelly, on IG @authoramberkelly or on twitter @AuthorAmberKel1.
http://authoramberkelly.com/
http://authoramberkelly.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
November 15, 2024
The amount of hot cocoa they drink in this series is terrifying
November 21, 2024
🩰🎄dancing in lake mistletoe🎄🩰 by Amber Kelly eARC review...
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
What to look forward to:
🎄single dad
🩰small town
🎄flannel wearing, sexy mountain man
🩰ballerina
Dutch and Mindi were meant for each other. Even though they come from different worlds, you can really feel the love they found in each other.
I have been loving the single parent trope recently... and Dutch really is the definition of an amazing father. He really just knows how to make you melt!!
“You feel so good, wrapped around me,” he murmurs into my neck. “Like you were made for me, baby.”
Blurb:
I am a ballet dancer from New York City, currently in Lake Mistletoe, Idaho, to perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker at the Sun Valley Ski Resort. After my breakup with my boyfriend, I needed a break from my fast-paced life. This quiet, snow-covered town seemed like the perfect escape. Staying at The Gingerbread Inn feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. However, what really catches me off guard is Dutch.
Dutch is the electrical engineer working on the sets, and he's a single dad to Josie, an adorable little girl who loves ballet. As I bond with Josie, I find myself drawn to Dutch in a way I didn’t expect, and the life I left behind in Manhattan starts to feel distant. He’s a different kind of distraction. He’s not the type of guy I usually go for—he’s all flannel, muscle, and practicality. But there’s something about him that’s hard to ignore.
What starts as a hot holiday fling turns into something more, and I begin to wonder if small-town life, with its snow-covered streets and warm, welcoming people, is what I’ve been searching for. Maybe Lake Mistletoe isn’t just a temporary stop but the beginning of my second chance at love.
🏷️ @wordsmithpublicity
#smalltown #holidayromance #singledadtrope #dancinginlakemistletoe
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️🌶️/5
What to look forward to:
🎄single dad
🩰small town
🎄flannel wearing, sexy mountain man
🩰ballerina
Dutch and Mindi were meant for each other. Even though they come from different worlds, you can really feel the love they found in each other.
I have been loving the single parent trope recently... and Dutch really is the definition of an amazing father. He really just knows how to make you melt!!
“You feel so good, wrapped around me,” he murmurs into my neck. “Like you were made for me, baby.”
Blurb:
I am a ballet dancer from New York City, currently in Lake Mistletoe, Idaho, to perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker at the Sun Valley Ski Resort. After my breakup with my boyfriend, I needed a break from my fast-paced life. This quiet, snow-covered town seemed like the perfect escape. Staying at The Gingerbread Inn feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. However, what really catches me off guard is Dutch.
Dutch is the electrical engineer working on the sets, and he's a single dad to Josie, an adorable little girl who loves ballet. As I bond with Josie, I find myself drawn to Dutch in a way I didn’t expect, and the life I left behind in Manhattan starts to feel distant. He’s a different kind of distraction. He’s not the type of guy I usually go for—he’s all flannel, muscle, and practicality. But there’s something about him that’s hard to ignore.
What starts as a hot holiday fling turns into something more, and I begin to wonder if small-town life, with its snow-covered streets and warm, welcoming people, is what I’ve been searching for. Maybe Lake Mistletoe isn’t just a temporary stop but the beginning of my second chance at love.
🏷️ @wordsmithpublicity
#smalltown #holidayromance #singledadtrope #dancinginlakemistletoe
November 19, 2024
★★ ½
This is my least favorite Amber Kelly book, and I’ve read over a dozen.
It started off sooo slow. There were DETAILED descriptions of places we’ve been reading about for four books now. I know it can be read as a standalone, but yikes.
It was also really short, and on top of that, had two blank pages for every chapter (although beautiful). After the descriptions, it felt rushed and boring. The insta-love trope has never been for me, but this didn’t even feel right. Weeks went by, unexplained. There was no tension, no flirty banter, no build up.
Also, the book cover didn’t match the description of Dutch, and I hate that.
I hate to say this, because I LOVE all her other books, but this was a flop.
This is my least favorite Amber Kelly book, and I’ve read over a dozen.
It started off sooo slow. There were DETAILED descriptions of places we’ve been reading about for four books now. I know it can be read as a standalone, but yikes.
It was also really short, and on top of that, had two blank pages for every chapter (although beautiful). After the descriptions, it felt rushed and boring. The insta-love trope has never been for me, but this didn’t even feel right. Weeks went by, unexplained. There was no tension, no flirty banter, no build up.
Also, the book cover didn’t match the description of Dutch, and I hate that.
I hate to say this, because I LOVE all her other books, but this was a flop.
November 15, 2024
❄️ Dancing in Lake Mistletoe ❄️
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5)
Tropes:
🩰 Small town
🎄 Single Dad
🩰 A little bit steamy and a whole lot of sweet
🎄 Holiday Romance
I quite liked Dancing in Lake Mistletoe it was a cute and a little bit corny Christmas romance that gave all of the Christmas vibes. I will forever be a sucker for single dad romance and this book did not disappoint I was obsessed with little Josie as soon as we met her.
Going into this read I didn’t realise it was a part of an interconnected series so I think I would have enjoyed it more had I read the others first. I’m not sure what it was that I didn’t 100% love about this book but I think I was just a bit disconnected from the main characters
*I was provided an arc for this book in exchange for my honest review, thank you to Wordsmith Publicity and Amber Kelly*
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5)
Tropes:
🩰 Small town
🎄 Single Dad
🩰 A little bit steamy and a whole lot of sweet
🎄 Holiday Romance
I quite liked Dancing in Lake Mistletoe it was a cute and a little bit corny Christmas romance that gave all of the Christmas vibes. I will forever be a sucker for single dad romance and this book did not disappoint I was obsessed with little Josie as soon as we met her.
Going into this read I didn’t realise it was a part of an interconnected series so I think I would have enjoyed it more had I read the others first. I’m not sure what it was that I didn’t 100% love about this book but I think I was just a bit disconnected from the main characters
*I was provided an arc for this book in exchange for my honest review, thank you to Wordsmith Publicity and Amber Kelly*
December 18, 2025
Another easy quick Hallmark Christmas read.
Dutch & Mindi
Ballet dancer x electrical blue collar man
Single dad
Small town
Christmas magic
🎄
Dutch & Mindi
Ballet dancer x electrical blue collar man
Single dad
Small town
Christmas magic
🎄
November 17, 2024
Amazon
This role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker is just what Mindi needs to get away from New York. And when she comes to Lake Mistletoe and is welcomed so warmly, she starts to wonder just what is keeping her in New York. Here in this beautiful small town, she's finding wonderful people, and a special man with an adorable daughter who have soon stolen her heart. Though she had originally only planned to be here a few months for her role in the ballet, her future looks brighter here with Dutch and Josie.
Dutch had a high powered electrical engineering job in the city, but moved back here to Lake Mistletoe after his wife passed, to raise their daughter with his family, surrounded by love in their small town. He isn't sure he's ready to move on until a beautiful dancer comes to stay for a few months to dance the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the theater's The Nutcracker. Soon they've fallen under the spell of Christmas magic and he's wondering how to convince Mindi to stay here with him, forever.
Dutch, Mindi and Josie's story is like a Hallmark movie with lots of steam. It's sweet and delicious, and Mindi finally was able to put down the roots she'd spent her life not having. I want to go live in Lake Mistletoe with Mindi, Josie and Dutch now, and can't wait to find out who falls in love there.
ARC provided by Wordsmith Publicity for an honest review.
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May 17, 2025
Rating: 4⭐️/5
“I even wished on a damn snowflake.”
Mindi, a third-year corps de ballet dancer from a New York company, gets the last-minute chance of a lifetime—to step into the principal role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in a Nutcracker run at a luxury ski resort in Sun Valley, Idaho. It’s a six-week engagement with daily rehearsals and shows through Christmas Eve. She’s staying at the cozy Gingerbread Inn, where holiday magic and matchmaking are always in the air. Raised by her military mom and constantly moving, dance was Mindi’s one true constant. Dutch, a local widower and full-time girl dad, is the resort’s electrical engineer, juggling stage lights, circuits, and his daughter Josie—who quickly bonds with Mindi. As sparks fly, Mindi must choose between her career and what’s growing between them, with a little holiday magic nudging her toward clarity. Full of small-town charm, meddling friends, and heartwarming moments, this story delivers a festive, feel-good romance with a sweet happily ever after.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe gave total Hallmark vibes in the best way—sweet, swoony, and just the right amount of spice. From the very first paragraph, I was all in. You can feel the excitement building for Mindi as she steps into the biggest role of her career, and the scenic, snow-covered setting is described so vividly it feels like you’re right there in town. The characters are well-written and easy to love—both Mindi and Dutch are just trying to make things work, whether on stage or behind the scenes with circuit boards and stage lights. The small-town Christmas vibes, heartwarming family dynamics, and the sparks flying between a dedicated single dad and a ballerina chasing her big break made this story impossible to put down!
A big thanks to Wordsmith Publicity and Amber Kelly for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
—
Released 11/14/24 on Amazon, KU, and paperback.
—
05.17.2025.
⚯ ͛: շօշ5/33. ARC No. 149
—
#lateARCreview
“I even wished on a damn snowflake.”
Mindi, a third-year corps de ballet dancer from a New York company, gets the last-minute chance of a lifetime—to step into the principal role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in a Nutcracker run at a luxury ski resort in Sun Valley, Idaho. It’s a six-week engagement with daily rehearsals and shows through Christmas Eve. She’s staying at the cozy Gingerbread Inn, where holiday magic and matchmaking are always in the air. Raised by her military mom and constantly moving, dance was Mindi’s one true constant. Dutch, a local widower and full-time girl dad, is the resort’s electrical engineer, juggling stage lights, circuits, and his daughter Josie—who quickly bonds with Mindi. As sparks fly, Mindi must choose between her career and what’s growing between them, with a little holiday magic nudging her toward clarity. Full of small-town charm, meddling friends, and heartwarming moments, this story delivers a festive, feel-good romance with a sweet happily ever after.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe gave total Hallmark vibes in the best way—sweet, swoony, and just the right amount of spice. From the very first paragraph, I was all in. You can feel the excitement building for Mindi as she steps into the biggest role of her career, and the scenic, snow-covered setting is described so vividly it feels like you’re right there in town. The characters are well-written and easy to love—both Mindi and Dutch are just trying to make things work, whether on stage or behind the scenes with circuit boards and stage lights. The small-town Christmas vibes, heartwarming family dynamics, and the sparks flying between a dedicated single dad and a ballerina chasing her big break made this story impossible to put down!
A big thanks to Wordsmith Publicity and Amber Kelly for sending me a digital ARC of this book!
—
Released 11/14/24 on Amazon, KU, and paperback.
—
05.17.2025.
⚯ ͛: շօշ5/33. ARC No. 149
—
#lateARCreview
November 16, 2024
I'm at this point where if Amber Kelly wrote it I'll read it. And every new addition to the Lake Mistletoe universe is an early Christmas treat. Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is like a Hallmark Christmas movie, you know it'll be sweet and swoony and oh so spicy. Needless to say I read it in one sitting and couldn't put it down. And it was so good to meet in passing some characters from Sandcastle Cove series. Always love it when I catch one of these easter eggs while reading. Mindi and Dutch were so good together and Josie is the sweetest little girl ever. Dutch is the swooniest single dad and he has a great relationship with his daughter Josie. And his job is to make Christmas effortless and also is working on the Christmas ballet performance at the resort theater . Where Mindi is dancing the role of her life. Mindi is sweet and loving and is so in tune with all things Lake Mistletoe related. And those two had such a great chemistry between them from the start. Mindi is staying at the magical Gingerbread Inn and she's friends with all the ladies. Hence all the shenanigans and meddling in bringing Dutch and Mindi together. And those two were so steaming hot together. And Mindi had such a great relationship with Josie. Mindi is struggling with her feelings for Dutch and Josie on one side and her career on the other . At the right time Mindi got an offer that could solve her dilemma. And as always around Christmas Nick is near to help with making decisions. And as in every Christmas romance Mindi and Dutch, and Josie of course got their happily ever after. So if this Christmas season you need a holiday romance Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is your read . And don't forget to make a wish on a falling snowflake. Who knows, your wish might come true.
Thanks to the author and WordSmith Publicity for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
Thanks to the author and WordSmith Publicity for the opportunity to read and review an early copy of this book.
November 24, 2024
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a holiday romance novel by Amber Kelly. It’s book 4 in the Lake Mistletoe series, but it can be read as a standalone.
What to Expect: 🎄 Small-town vibes 👨👧 Single dad romance ❤️ Holiday magic ✨ Sweet and swoony moments 🔥 Steamy scenes 🩰 Ballerina FMC
4.5 ⭐ | 2 🌶️
“Love shouldn’t just be an idea. Love should be tangible. Real,”
Synopsis: A NYC ballerina escapes to snowy Lake Mistletoe, Idaho, for a fresh start and a role in The Nutcracker. Staying at The Gingerbread Inn, she meets Dutch, a rugged widower and single dad to Josie, a ballet-loving little girl. What starts as a holiday fling blossoms into something deeper, making her wonder if small-town life might be her second chance at love.
I absolutely loved this novel! If you’re looking for a sweet holiday romance with a touch of spice, this is a must-add to your TBR. It’s a quick, heartwarming read full of festive charm.
Mindi is a lovable character—kind, sweet, and clearly thriving in Lake Mistletoe after feeling unfulfilled in NYC. Dutch is an amazing single dad, balancing his electrical work for the town and raising Josie, who is utterly adorable. Their romance felt so natural, with Mindi seamlessly fitting into their lives.
I adored the festival, ballet scenes, and the small-town traditions—they added so much charm. The balance of sweetness and spice was perfect, with their chemistry elevating the story. Seeing Mindi and Dutch find love during the holidays was everything I hoped for.
Last Christmas, I read Stranded in Lake Mistletoe, and it was so much fun returning to this cozy town. If you’re looking to grow your holiday TBR, I can’t recommend this book enough! 🎄✨
What to Expect: 🎄 Small-town vibes 👨👧 Single dad romance ❤️ Holiday magic ✨ Sweet and swoony moments 🔥 Steamy scenes 🩰 Ballerina FMC
4.5 ⭐ | 2 🌶️
“Love shouldn’t just be an idea. Love should be tangible. Real,”
Synopsis: A NYC ballerina escapes to snowy Lake Mistletoe, Idaho, for a fresh start and a role in The Nutcracker. Staying at The Gingerbread Inn, she meets Dutch, a rugged widower and single dad to Josie, a ballet-loving little girl. What starts as a holiday fling blossoms into something deeper, making her wonder if small-town life might be her second chance at love.
I absolutely loved this novel! If you’re looking for a sweet holiday romance with a touch of spice, this is a must-add to your TBR. It’s a quick, heartwarming read full of festive charm.
Mindi is a lovable character—kind, sweet, and clearly thriving in Lake Mistletoe after feeling unfulfilled in NYC. Dutch is an amazing single dad, balancing his electrical work for the town and raising Josie, who is utterly adorable. Their romance felt so natural, with Mindi seamlessly fitting into their lives.
I adored the festival, ballet scenes, and the small-town traditions—they added so much charm. The balance of sweetness and spice was perfect, with their chemistry elevating the story. Seeing Mindi and Dutch find love during the holidays was everything I hoped for.
Last Christmas, I read Stranded in Lake Mistletoe, and it was so much fun returning to this cozy town. If you’re looking to grow your holiday TBR, I can’t recommend this book enough! 🎄✨
November 15, 2024
After the constant hustle and bustle of the city Mindi quickly finds the quaint and quiet town of Lake Mistletoe a welcomed treat. She is in town for work and a little break from her life in New York, her heart needs to heal and this seems like the perfect place to do it. Especially after she meets a hunky single dad her makes her smile constantly...
The pages of Dancing in Lake Mistletoe are bound to have you feeling all the feels of the holidays, it's a heartfelt, steamy, can't miss love story! I loved meeting this pairing, neither were really looking for love, but it snuck up on them and had them falling fast. Dutch is everything that Mindi never knew she needed, he's definitely not her type, but there is just something about him that is impossible to ignore... it's a match made in literary heaven. Watching them fall for one another did my heart SO good!
My venture to Lake Mistletoe was everything I hoped it'd be and so much more. I'm in my Christmas romance era right now and this one definitely checked all the boxes for me! It's a town I'd definitely love to escape to... I loved everything about it, and look forward to future visits! If you are wanting a sweet and steamy Christmas romance I highly suggest you meet Mindi and Dutch, their wonderfully penned love story will put a smile on your face and touch your heart!
I requested an advanced copy of this title from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 14, 2024
*4,5 stars*
It's almost Christmas so this story is very appropriate and I definitely love to read one from time to time. I definitely loved the feel and the chemistry between Mindi & Dutch. Such an enjoyable lovely read but I also really liked the characters around them that just had something about it that made it even more charming. Definitely a recommended read for this time of year!
As Mindi comes into town to be one of the principals in the ballet show, she's really looking forward to it but also to the peace and quiet the town seems to provide instead of the buzzing New York. While slowly settling into the Christmas atmosphere, the people of the hotel she's staying at make her feel right at home. When she first meets Dutch, there's an instant spark between them. Dutch has been a single dad for a few years now and has a job that also keeps him very busy; he doesn't have time to date anyone but there's just something about Mindi that attracts him to her. As they get to know each other, both know that the time will come when Mindi will have to go back to New York but their bond deepends and their relationship starts to change. Will they give each other a chance in the end?...
It's almost Christmas so this story is very appropriate and I definitely love to read one from time to time. I definitely loved the feel and the chemistry between Mindi & Dutch. Such an enjoyable lovely read but I also really liked the characters around them that just had something about it that made it even more charming. Definitely a recommended read for this time of year!
As Mindi comes into town to be one of the principals in the ballet show, she's really looking forward to it but also to the peace and quiet the town seems to provide instead of the buzzing New York. While slowly settling into the Christmas atmosphere, the people of the hotel she's staying at make her feel right at home. When she first meets Dutch, there's an instant spark between them. Dutch has been a single dad for a few years now and has a job that also keeps him very busy; he doesn't have time to date anyone but there's just something about Mindi that attracts him to her. As they get to know each other, both know that the time will come when Mindi will have to go back to New York but their bond deepends and their relationship starts to change. Will they give each other a chance in the end?...
November 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Stars
🌶🌶 - Spice Level
Dutch meets Mindi, who is the prima ballerina in the local Lake Mistletoe town, hosts The Nutcracker ballet. Dutch is a single father to Josie after being widowed. Mindi has just been broken up with right before traveling to Lake Mistletoe for the rehearsal of the show's run. Dutch is the electrical engineer helping to town with their electrical grid use for the older homes, businesses, and the town's local Christmas celebrations. Dutch even assists with the lighting for the show. Dutch is intrigued by Mindi, the little ballerina. He's finally determined to get back into dating to relieve his single bachelorhood the little nosey townspeople always talk about.
These two really hit it off, and Dutch is quite the Christmas romantic for a small town bachelor. Dutch and Mindi's relationship is whirlwind as they just know by the last show that she's going to stick around for a job that's close by instead of going back to New York. I really enjoyed the christmas love story, characters, and the smeggsy.
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: November 14, 2024
🌶🌶 - Spice Level
Dutch meets Mindi, who is the prima ballerina in the local Lake Mistletoe town, hosts The Nutcracker ballet. Dutch is a single father to Josie after being widowed. Mindi has just been broken up with right before traveling to Lake Mistletoe for the rehearsal of the show's run. Dutch is the electrical engineer helping to town with their electrical grid use for the older homes, businesses, and the town's local Christmas celebrations. Dutch even assists with the lighting for the show. Dutch is intrigued by Mindi, the little ballerina. He's finally determined to get back into dating to relieve his single bachelorhood the little nosey townspeople always talk about.
These two really hit it off, and Dutch is quite the Christmas romantic for a small town bachelor. Dutch and Mindi's relationship is whirlwind as they just know by the last show that she's going to stick around for a job that's close by instead of going back to New York. I really enjoyed the christmas love story, characters, and the smeggsy.
Thank you, author, for the ARC!
Release Date: November 14, 2024
November 19, 2024
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a beautifully written single-dad romance that will warm your heart. It is the perfect Christmas story you will want to read over and over. Ms. Kelly tells us the tale of two people, Mindi and Dutch, who have a sweet and instant chemistry. Their story is one of love, friendship, family and finding that one person who makes your life complete.
Mindi is a ballerina who has been asked to be the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker. This was the chance of a lifetime but what she wasn't expecting was to fall for the town's electrical engineer, Dutch. Dutch is a single dad who is helping out at the theatre where the play is happening. Meeting Mindi was not on his radar but there is something about her that pulls him to her. His daughter is also a ballerina and has also taken a liking to Mindi. There is an end date for the two of them since Mindi has to go back to New York but when she receives a call her life changes forever
The town and family see the spark that is happening between them and I loved how they rallied to get them together.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a sweet, enjoyable and entertaining love story that was easy to get lost in.
Mindi is a ballerina who has been asked to be the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker. This was the chance of a lifetime but what she wasn't expecting was to fall for the town's electrical engineer, Dutch. Dutch is a single dad who is helping out at the theatre where the play is happening. Meeting Mindi was not on his radar but there is something about her that pulls him to her. His daughter is also a ballerina and has also taken a liking to Mindi. There is an end date for the two of them since Mindi has to go back to New York but when she receives a call her life changes forever
The town and family see the spark that is happening between them and I loved how they rallied to get them together.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a sweet, enjoyable and entertaining love story that was easy to get lost in.
October 19, 2025
Dutch & Mindi
Okay, this book totally sucked me in.
I love the ballet element and how Josie, Dutch’s daughter also loved ballet just like Mindi. It helped the girls form a bond that you could totally see last a life time.
I love how much of a girl dad Dutch is. He really has been put through it with his wife dying and becoming a single dad but moving back to lake mistletoe helped him Thrive.
I loved Mindi and Dutch. They have connection, chemistry and multiple cute moments. I loved them. I do think some spice scenes could have been removed and just had tender or sweet moments but either way it worked even though I skimmed one spice scene.
I feel like with this book, Amber took on the feedback that the last one wasn’t so much centred around the couple and made sure this book was.
I really enjoyed Mindi, Dutch and Josie. It really had it all and I love how meddling the rest of Lake Mistletoe’s characters are.
Honestly this series, it’s really hard not to find it enjoyable. I have been binging it and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Okay, this book totally sucked me in.
I love the ballet element and how Josie, Dutch’s daughter also loved ballet just like Mindi. It helped the girls form a bond that you could totally see last a life time.
I love how much of a girl dad Dutch is. He really has been put through it with his wife dying and becoming a single dad but moving back to lake mistletoe helped him Thrive.
I loved Mindi and Dutch. They have connection, chemistry and multiple cute moments. I loved them. I do think some spice scenes could have been removed and just had tender or sweet moments but either way it worked even though I skimmed one spice scene.
I feel like with this book, Amber took on the feedback that the last one wasn’t so much centred around the couple and made sure this book was.
I really enjoyed Mindi, Dutch and Josie. It really had it all and I love how meddling the rest of Lake Mistletoe’s characters are.
Honestly this series, it’s really hard not to find it enjoyable. I have been binging it and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
November 9, 2024
If you need something to make you believe in the magic of Christmas, a visit to Lake Mistletoe is sure to do the trick. With small-town charm, beautiful vistas, endearing townsfolk, a B&B called the Gingerbread Inn, and holiday lights and festivities everywhere, you’re sure to find a little enchantment.
When ballerina Mindi Marlowe comes to Lake Mistletoe to dance the Sugarplum Fairy in a production of The Nutcracker, she's not exactly in a holiday frame of mind. She's just coming off a breakup and is concerned about the next steps for her career, but it's not long before the town and its people are charming Mindi. Especially a certain town electrician and his ballet-loving daughter.
This is a quick, fun, lighthearted romance, with a deeper message that's as profound as it is hopeful and inspiring. It's the perfect escape and guaranteed to make you smile and put you in the holiday spirit.
When ballerina Mindi Marlowe comes to Lake Mistletoe to dance the Sugarplum Fairy in a production of The Nutcracker, she's not exactly in a holiday frame of mind. She's just coming off a breakup and is concerned about the next steps for her career, but it's not long before the town and its people are charming Mindi. Especially a certain town electrician and his ballet-loving daughter.
This is a quick, fun, lighthearted romance, with a deeper message that's as profound as it is hopeful and inspiring. It's the perfect escape and guaranteed to make you smile and put you in the holiday spirit.
November 11, 2024
❄️ARC Review❄️
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe by @authoramberkelly
ARC provided by @wordsmithpublicity and I happily give my honest opinion.
This was such a good Christmas read. It had a beautiful setting, single dad, adorable kid and talented dancer. It felt so Christmassy! I wanted to crawl in to the book and go for a sleigh ride, drink hot chocolate and watch the ballet.
Mindi finds something she’s never really had before in Lake Mistletoe, place she feels she belongs. She also find Dutch and Josie who make her life feel complete.
Dutch thought he was content being a dad and helping to keep the lights on in Lake Mistletoe but finds with Mindi he could have so much more.
This was a quick read with no third act breakup, lots of caring characters and left me feeling all warm and fuzzy.
#dancinginlakemistletoe
#amberkelly
#singledadromance
#christmasromance
#sweetwithheatromance
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe by @authoramberkelly
ARC provided by @wordsmithpublicity and I happily give my honest opinion.
This was such a good Christmas read. It had a beautiful setting, single dad, adorable kid and talented dancer. It felt so Christmassy! I wanted to crawl in to the book and go for a sleigh ride, drink hot chocolate and watch the ballet.
Mindi finds something she’s never really had before in Lake Mistletoe, place she feels she belongs. She also find Dutch and Josie who make her life feel complete.
Dutch thought he was content being a dad and helping to keep the lights on in Lake Mistletoe but finds with Mindi he could have so much more.
This was a quick read with no third act breakup, lots of caring characters and left me feeling all warm and fuzzy.
#dancinginlakemistletoe
#amberkelly
#singledadromance
#christmasromance
#sweetwithheatromance
November 14, 2024
I absolutely adore this series from Amber Kelly. This is the perfect Christmas story. No drama or angst...just a wonderful group of characters with sweet children and a couple falling in love.
I'm a sucker for a single dad romance and throw in the backdrop of this beautiful small Christmas loving town and I am so happy. Dutch has an adorable almost 7 year old daughter, who thinks he hung the moon. Dutch is also the town electrician and the one everyone knows they can count on. Mindi is just visiting Lake Mistletoe for a short time while she appears in The Nutcracker play. Mindi is glad for the change of scenery from the hustle of New York. Lake Mistletoe is exactly what she needed...she just didn't realize how much she needed it.
I loved the connection between Dutch and Mindi as well as little Josie. I love this small town, and I secretly hope these Christmas stories from Lake Mistletoe never end.
I'm a sucker for a single dad romance and throw in the backdrop of this beautiful small Christmas loving town and I am so happy. Dutch has an adorable almost 7 year old daughter, who thinks he hung the moon. Dutch is also the town electrician and the one everyone knows they can count on. Mindi is just visiting Lake Mistletoe for a short time while she appears in The Nutcracker play. Mindi is glad for the change of scenery from the hustle of New York. Lake Mistletoe is exactly what she needed...she just didn't realize how much she needed it.
I loved the connection between Dutch and Mindi as well as little Josie. I love this small town, and I secretly hope these Christmas stories from Lake Mistletoe never end.
November 14, 2024
We finally get to return to the beautiful Lake Mistletoe and read about the magical story of Dutch, little Josie and Mindi.
Mindi comes to Lake Mistletoe to star as the Sugar Plum Fairy in a ballet production of the Nutcracker and along the way meets electrical engineer Dutch and his daughter Josie. In the few weeks that follow, their lives change all of for the better.
This was the cutest Christmas read and I always love Amber's descriptions of places because it just makes you feel like you are there with all of the characters.
This is the perfect little holiday story to snuggle down with and just forget about the real world for a short time. I do hope we get to return to Lake Mistletoe in the future. Amber's Christmas stories are always on my TBR at this time of year, as they add a little extra coziness on the run up to the holidays.
Thank you Amber Kelly and team for allowing me to read this arc, I am always so grateful💕
Mindi comes to Lake Mistletoe to star as the Sugar Plum Fairy in a ballet production of the Nutcracker and along the way meets electrical engineer Dutch and his daughter Josie. In the few weeks that follow, their lives change all of for the better.
This was the cutest Christmas read and I always love Amber's descriptions of places because it just makes you feel like you are there with all of the characters.
This is the perfect little holiday story to snuggle down with and just forget about the real world for a short time. I do hope we get to return to Lake Mistletoe in the future. Amber's Christmas stories are always on my TBR at this time of year, as they add a little extra coziness on the run up to the holidays.
Thank you Amber Kelly and team for allowing me to read this arc, I am always so grateful💕
November 15, 2024
What better way than to get in the Christmas spirit than to read a cute holiday romance set in the picturesque Lake Mistletoe. Where sugarplums dance and hot mountain men fall this is the story that will melt your heart and put a smile on your face.
Amber Kelly weaves a story that has emotion, heart, and romance galore. She sets the scene and makes you fall in love with her little small towns and the characters that reside there. This story is the latest in the Lake Mistletoe series and I loved enveloping myself in the Christmas festivities and romance.
We have a single dad and a tiny dancer who find themselves under the mistletoe and falling in love. The chemistry was instant and the sweet romance was like eating a sugar cookie. Josie was the cutest. Sometimes what you think you want isn’t what is meant to be. Sometimes life has another route for you.
This was just what you need right before the holidays. Sit back, grab a hot cocoa and get lost in Lake Mistletoe.
Amber Kelly weaves a story that has emotion, heart, and romance galore. She sets the scene and makes you fall in love with her little small towns and the characters that reside there. This story is the latest in the Lake Mistletoe series and I loved enveloping myself in the Christmas festivities and romance.
We have a single dad and a tiny dancer who find themselves under the mistletoe and falling in love. The chemistry was instant and the sweet romance was like eating a sugar cookie. Josie was the cutest. Sometimes what you think you want isn’t what is meant to be. Sometimes life has another route for you.
This was just what you need right before the holidays. Sit back, grab a hot cocoa and get lost in Lake Mistletoe.
December 23, 2024
Mindi and Dutch
This was a cute holiday romance. It was short and easy to read but still felt like it encompassed Mindi and Dutch’s full romance. It was low angst and full of Christmas holiday fun.
Mindi was only supposed to be in Lake Mistletoe for the holiday season before returning to her ballet career in New York. She never expected to fall so hard for the small town of Lake Mistletoe or the single dad electrician and his ballet-obsessed daughter.
Dutch has been living for his daughter for the past seven years. He’s been both mother and father to her since his wife died suddenly. But he can’t fight the attraction he feels for the new professional ballerina staying at the Gingerbread Inn.
Dutch and Mindi fell for each other around fall festivals, sleigh rides to work, and holiday events spent with Dutch’s family and friends. It was the perfect Christmas romance.
This was a cute holiday romance. It was short and easy to read but still felt like it encompassed Mindi and Dutch’s full romance. It was low angst and full of Christmas holiday fun.
Mindi was only supposed to be in Lake Mistletoe for the holiday season before returning to her ballet career in New York. She never expected to fall so hard for the small town of Lake Mistletoe or the single dad electrician and his ballet-obsessed daughter.
Dutch has been living for his daughter for the past seven years. He’s been both mother and father to her since his wife died suddenly. But he can’t fight the attraction he feels for the new professional ballerina staying at the Gingerbread Inn.
Dutch and Mindi fell for each other around fall festivals, sleigh rides to work, and holiday events spent with Dutch’s family and friends. It was the perfect Christmas romance.
November 16, 2024
4.5 Stars
Another great book set in Lake Mistletoe. I've been looking forward to this one after getting to know Dutch and his daughter in previous books. This single dad is going to steal your heart. This book lived up to what I was looking for. The magic of the season is going strong in this one. Mindi is in town for The Nutcracker play and she gets to experience the Hallmark like atmosphere this town has to offer. Little Josie is so adorable. You can easily see how close Dutch and his daughter are. They melted my heart. This is a perfect read to get anyone into the holiday spirit. I still say I want to stay at the Gingerbread Inn at Christmas. It feels so magical to me with all the events going on in town. This a book that is easily gobbled right up. The epilogue left me with a huge smile on my face. A must read!
Another great book set in Lake Mistletoe. I've been looking forward to this one after getting to know Dutch and his daughter in previous books. This single dad is going to steal your heart. This book lived up to what I was looking for. The magic of the season is going strong in this one. Mindi is in town for The Nutcracker play and she gets to experience the Hallmark like atmosphere this town has to offer. Little Josie is so adorable. You can easily see how close Dutch and his daughter are. They melted my heart. This is a perfect read to get anyone into the holiday spirit. I still say I want to stay at the Gingerbread Inn at Christmas. It feels so magical to me with all the events going on in town. This a book that is easily gobbled right up. The epilogue left me with a huge smile on my face. A must read!
November 17, 2024
I absolutely love this series and always look forgot to this time of year for another Lake Mistletoe book.
You get wrapped up in the book and lost in the world that Kelly creates and the whole community and what could be more perfect than a lodge called The Gingerbread Lodge.
It's got all the holiday and Hallmark vibes and always feels like you're coming home.
This is Mindi and Dutch's story.
She's a ballerina come to the small town to be lead in The Nutcracker and he's the rugged, handsome electrician....
There's an insta attraction and connection.
As with all Kelly's books you are carried away with flawless characters, settings and scenes. Lots of backstory and beautiful, romantic banter and of course a guaranteed hea
Can't wait for next year's Christmas Lake Mistletoe book
Kerry Kennedy Author
You get wrapped up in the book and lost in the world that Kelly creates and the whole community and what could be more perfect than a lodge called The Gingerbread Lodge.
It's got all the holiday and Hallmark vibes and always feels like you're coming home.
This is Mindi and Dutch's story.
She's a ballerina come to the small town to be lead in The Nutcracker and he's the rugged, handsome electrician....
There's an insta attraction and connection.
As with all Kelly's books you are carried away with flawless characters, settings and scenes. Lots of backstory and beautiful, romantic banter and of course a guaranteed hea
Can't wait for next year's Christmas Lake Mistletoe book
Kerry Kennedy Author
November 11, 2024
5 Star Review Dancing In Lake Mistletoe by Amber Kelly
I love small town romances, and was excited to be back in Lake Mistletoe, Idaho for ballerina Mindi and Dutch’s story.
Josie is in town to perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker at the Sun Valley Ski Resort and is still recovering from a breakup.
In my opinion Ms. Kelly has an affinity for writing stories in this genre and her characters are engaging and easy to relate too. add in that Dutch is a single dad to daughter, Josie and for me this was a win/win.
To me The Gingerbread Inn in Lake Mistletoe seems like the perfect place to be. I was riveted to the story that Ms.Kelly wove from the first chapter to the last and it left me with a smile on my face.
I love small town romances, and was excited to be back in Lake Mistletoe, Idaho for ballerina Mindi and Dutch’s story.
Josie is in town to perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker at the Sun Valley Ski Resort and is still recovering from a breakup.
In my opinion Ms. Kelly has an affinity for writing stories in this genre and her characters are engaging and easy to relate too. add in that Dutch is a single dad to daughter, Josie and for me this was a win/win.
To me The Gingerbread Inn in Lake Mistletoe seems like the perfect place to be. I was riveted to the story that Ms.Kelly wove from the first chapter to the last and it left me with a smile on my face.
November 14, 2024
Maybe, just maybe there really is magic in Lake Mistletoe after all. Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is full of small town charm, endearing characters, the Gingerbread Inn where each room is a different holiday theme and all the Christmas activities your Hallmark loving heart desires.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe features single dad Dutch and his adorable daughter Josie and Mindi Marlowe. Mindi is a prima ballerina in town to dance the part of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Christmas production of The Nutcracker. Dutch is the towns electrical engineer and has been helping with the creation of the set for the play.
This was a quick story to get you in the holiday spirit but it was also full of hope. It shows you the power of believing and found family. I love this series and I hope we continue to see more from Lake Mistletoe.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe features single dad Dutch and his adorable daughter Josie and Mindi Marlowe. Mindi is a prima ballerina in town to dance the part of the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Christmas production of The Nutcracker. Dutch is the towns electrical engineer and has been helping with the creation of the set for the play.
This was a quick story to get you in the holiday spirit but it was also full of hope. It shows you the power of believing and found family. I love this series and I hope we continue to see more from Lake Mistletoe.
November 13, 2024
Mindi is a ballet dancer who travels to Lake Mistletoe to take on the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy at a new theatre in Idaho. While she is there, she stays at Gingerbread Inn and befriends a good-looking single dad, Dutch.
Dutch has a cute little girl, Josie, who is learning ballet and this leads Mindi and Josie to connect closely with one another. Dutch is a lucky man with kind (and meddling) friends who help push him and Mindi together. ❤️
As they get closer to each other, doubts remain. Will Mindi choose to stay at Lake Mistletoe or return to New York for her ballet career?
This was a sweet and quick read which was filled with all the best things about Christmas – the light up, the sleigh rides, the presents and most of all, lots of love amidst the snow.
Dutch has a cute little girl, Josie, who is learning ballet and this leads Mindi and Josie to connect closely with one another. Dutch is a lucky man with kind (and meddling) friends who help push him and Mindi together. ❤️
As they get closer to each other, doubts remain. Will Mindi choose to stay at Lake Mistletoe or return to New York for her ballet career?
This was a sweet and quick read which was filled with all the best things about Christmas – the light up, the sleigh rides, the presents and most of all, lots of love amidst the snow.
November 14, 2024
Mindi is in Lake Mistletoe for the holiday season, since she will be the Sugar Plum fairy in the Nutcracker at the theatre there. Lake Mistletoe is vastly different from New York City. Slower paced, festive, and maybe has some Christmas magic.
Dutch is busy being a single dad and the town electrician. But the new ballet dancer staying in town has definitely caught his eye.
This is a sweet, feel good, holiday romance with a twist of spice. I loved this book. Every time I dive into a Lake Mistletoe book, I fall in love with the town and characters all over again. This was no exception. I loved every moment. Full of love, sweetness, holiday magic, and passion. I would easily say this is a 5 star magical Christmas read.
Dutch is busy being a single dad and the town electrician. But the new ballet dancer staying in town has definitely caught his eye.
This is a sweet, feel good, holiday romance with a twist of spice. I loved this book. Every time I dive into a Lake Mistletoe book, I fall in love with the town and characters all over again. This was no exception. I loved every moment. Full of love, sweetness, holiday magic, and passion. I would easily say this is a 5 star magical Christmas read.
November 14, 2024
Amber Kelly’s writing beautifully captures the joy and warmth of holiday romance, with vivid descriptions of the enchanting Lake Mistletoe and the close-knit community that welcomes the Mindi with open arms. The chemistry between Mindi and Dutch is electric yet heartfelt, adding depth to the classic holiday trope. Kelly skillfully explores the theme of rediscovering oneself through slowing down and embracing simplicity, reminding readers that sometimes, the perfect love and life are found in the most unexpected places.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a delightful escape for anyone who loves holiday romance, charming small-town settings, and stories of second chances. It’s a cozy, feel-good read that will leave you smiling and rooting for true love to triumph.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a delightful escape for anyone who loves holiday romance, charming small-town settings, and stories of second chances. It’s a cozy, feel-good read that will leave you smiling and rooting for true love to triumph.
November 18, 2024
The opportunity to dance in Lake Mistletoe’s ballet performance of the Nutcracker couldn’t have come at a better time for Mindi. After her last relationship finding love wasn’t part of her plan but there is something about Dutch and his adorable daughter Josie that feels like home.
Dutch enjoys the lifestyle that Lake Mistletoe offers for him and his daughter. When he meets Mindi there is no denying the feelings he has for her but he isn’t certain if he is ready to let a woman into his and his daughter’s life especially one with a life far beyond Lake Mistletoe.
The romance between Dutch and Mindi was enchanting as they both thought they were content with the lives that they were living until they realized their lives were so much fuller with each other in it.
Dutch enjoys the lifestyle that Lake Mistletoe offers for him and his daughter. When he meets Mindi there is no denying the feelings he has for her but he isn’t certain if he is ready to let a woman into his and his daughter’s life especially one with a life far beyond Lake Mistletoe.
The romance between Dutch and Mindi was enchanting as they both thought they were content with the lives that they were living until they realized their lives were so much fuller with each other in it.
November 20, 2024
"Amber Kelly’s writing beautifully captures the joy and warmth of holiday romance, with vivid descriptions of the enchanting Lake Mistletoe and the close-knit community that welcomes the Mindi with open arms. The chemistry between Mindi and Dutch is electric yet heartfelt, adding depth to the classic holiday trope. Kelly skillfully explores the theme of rediscovering oneself through slowing down and embracing simplicity, reminding readers that sometimes, the perfect love and life are found in the most unexpected places.
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a delightful escape for anyone who loves holiday romance, charming small-town settings, and stories of second chances. It’s a cozy, feel-good read that will leave you smiling and rooting for true love to triumph.
"
Dancing in Lake Mistletoe is a delightful escape for anyone who loves holiday romance, charming small-town settings, and stories of second chances. It’s a cozy, feel-good read that will leave you smiling and rooting for true love to triumph.
"
November 21, 2024
Dancing In Lake Mistletoe brought us back for another holiday season in our favorite festive small town. Amber Kelly always provides on holiday cozy reading and my time in Lake Mistletoe this year delivered on whimsical and cozy Christmas feels.
I loved Dutch, Josie and Mindi, but something about their story seemed slow and a rush all at once and it added up to things feeling disconnected and flat. The lack of depth in the characters and story showed in my overall reading experience because the emotions I’m used to feeling when reading an Amber Kelly book were absent.
Overall, this book wasn’t the strongest in the series, but it was a quick and cozy read and satisfied the need for holiday reading. Hoping Lake Mistletoe has more in store for us next year.
I loved Dutch, Josie and Mindi, but something about their story seemed slow and a rush all at once and it added up to things feeling disconnected and flat. The lack of depth in the characters and story showed in my overall reading experience because the emotions I’m used to feeling when reading an Amber Kelly book were absent.
Overall, this book wasn’t the strongest in the series, but it was a quick and cozy read and satisfied the need for holiday reading. Hoping Lake Mistletoe has more in store for us next year.
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