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Ten Christmas Brides

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What’s better than a Christmas Wedding? Ten Christmas Weddings!

Join ten New York Times, USA Today and National best-selling authors to celebrate the holiday season with a boxed set of stories brimming with emotion, holiday spirit and happy ever afters. From sweet to sexy, suspense to small town drama, travel from Belarus to Africa to the snowy Highlands of Scotland as Santa delivers our gift to you—love, laughter and happiness this Christmas!

Recipe for Love by Ruth Cardello, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.
All Madison Andrade wants for Christmas is a place to hide and she finds it in the home of a lusty French chef. Richard D’Argenson’s recipes are famous, but they lack one necessary ingredient—love. Spend a steamy holiday with this unlikely couple and fall in love –Andrade style.

Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author.
Detective Nick Palladin just needs to close one last case in Vice—going undercover as Santa—before getting his Christmas transfer to the K-9 Unit. But when a cute little fluffball and the knockout holding her leash stumble into the op and are attacked, Santa and his faithful dog come running to the rescue!

An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano, USA Today bestselling author.
Aaron Chase is desperate to give his daughter a perfect Christmas and elicits the help of Pediatric Nurse Christy Cooper to do it. When Aaron’s impish eight-year-old talks them into a make-believe wedding, can the magic of Christmas make the vows stick?

Christmas Captive (The Decorah Security Series) by Rebecca York, New York Times and USA Today best-selling author.
How did hard-driving businessman Jordan Campbell end up in a coma? And can nurse Hannah Andrews use her psychic talent to connect with him and trap his would-be killer? As she and Jordan work together, she knows she’s putting her own life---and her heart---at risk.

The Army Doctor’s Honeymoon Baby (The Army Doctor’s Series) by Helen Scott Taylor, Award-winning and National bestselling author.
Army doctor, Blair Mackenzie, secretly loves his childhood friend, Lorna, and protects her in the African refugee camp where they work. Lorna depends on Blair—he’s her best friend, the only man she’s ever loved. She longs to admit her feelings but a family secret from their past prevents her.

Kiss Me Santa by Patrice Wilton, National bestselling author.
Widowed schoolteacher, Cindy Harris meets Brad Williams--posing as Santa--when she takes her young son to the mall. Imagine her surprise when he shows up as the hot-shot realtor selling her family home. Sparks fly between them. Can the magic of Christmas give them the best gift of all -- love?

An Unusual Christmas by Mona Risk, Award-winning and National bestselling author.
Running away from Christmas celebrations and the demons of her past, Dr. Jillian has dedicated her life to saving third-world children. In Belarus, a baby girl, four little boys, and a handsome doctor may teach her the true meaning of Christmas.

A Cowboy for Christmas by Annie Jones, Award-winning and National bestselling author.
A single mom who has pinned all her hopes on reviving a popular tourist dude ranch gets a Christmas surprise that may change everything when her son asks Santa for a new dad. And that very night a Christmas-skipping cowboy shows up at their door.

The Christmas Honeymoon by Alicia Street, Award-winning and National bestselling author.
Quiet librarian Serena always loved Christmas, until she was jilted before her December wedding. A year later, while trying to rekindle her tarnished holiday spirit, she meets Damien, handsome daredevil—and a total Scrooge. Their unlikely mutual attraction brings on a challenge that leads to one very romantic Christmas.

She’s Not You by Mimi Barbour, National bestselling author.
Sick and widowed, running scared from a man who insists she belongs to him, Belle is forced to let the charmer down the hall help out.

Kindle Edition

First published October 21, 2014

103 people are currently reading
626 people want to read

About the author

Ruth Cardello

127 books2,954 followers
Ruth Cardello hit the NYTs and USA Today for the first time back in 2012. Millions of sales are evidence that her books are akin to potato chips, addictive from the first one. She has created a multi-series billionaire world with a combination of escapism and realism that has gained her a faithful following of readers.

What Kindle Reviewers write about her:

"Wow hot at every page. Heart stoping, fear raging, mind blowing wonderful."

"I'm a true fan of Ms. Cardello. I ran on to her first book a few years back and have been hooked ever since. I could go on and on about the story like of this book, but I'm not. All of her books are total page turners, unique, heart wrenching, and I love them all. There isn't two alike in the bunch and I feel like i know the characters personally. I personally read 97 authors books. And I buy every book they put out. This author is in my top 10. Great job and keep them coming."

"Love this series. Got me to start reading again. I look forward to the next book. Thank you for giving me the love of reading back."

Ruth Cardello was born the youngest of 11 children in a small city in northern Rhode Island. She spent her young adult years moving as far away as she could from her large extended family. She lived in Boston, Paris, Orlando, New York--then came full circle and moved back to New England. She now happily lives one town over from the one she was born in. For her, family trumped the warmer weather and international scene.

She was an educator for 20 years, the last 11 as a kindergarten teacher. When her school district began cutting jobs, Ruth turned a serious eye toward her second love- writing and has never been happier. When she's not writing, you can find her chasing her children around her small farm or connecting with her readers online.

Email Notice of New Releases: www.RuthCardello.com/Signup

You can find her on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/RuthCardello

Follow her at Twitter @RuthieCardello

If you'd like to email her directly, you may contact her via her website: www.ruthcardello.com

Lone Star Burn Series
Book 1: Taken, Not Spurred
Book 2: Tycoon Takedown
Book 3: Taken Home
Book 4: Taking Charge

Want to hear the song Charles proposed to Melanie with? https://youtu.be/SGZT5nVKfMs

The Legacy Collection
Book 1: Maid for the Billionaire (FREE on Amazon!)
Book 2: For Love or Legacy
Book 3: Bedding the Billionaire
Book 4: Saving the Sheikh
Book 5: Rise of the Billionaire
Book 6: Breaching the Billionaire: Alethea's Redemption
Book 7: (Novella) A Corisi Christmas

The Andrades:
Book 1: Come Away With Me (FREE on Amazon)
Book 2: Home to Me
Book 3: Maximum Risk
Book 4: Somewhere Along the Way
Book 5: Loving Gigi
Christmas Novella: A Recipe for Love (Maddy and Richard)

The Barrington Billionaires:
Book 1: Always Mine
Book 2: Stolen Kisses
Book 3: Trade It All
Book 3.5: A Billionaire for Lexi
Book 4: Let It Burn
Book 5: More than Love
Book 6: Forever Now
Book 7: Never Goodbye
Book 8: Reluctantly Alpha
Book 9: Reluctantly Rescued
Book 10: Reluctantly Romanced
Book 11: Loving a Landon
Book 12: Loathing a Landon


For a more complete list visit her website at www.ruthcardello.com

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
Profile Image for Claire.
187 reviews12 followers
October 21, 2014
Wow! What an awesome box set.

I love christmas and pretty much anything to do with it and you can't go wrong with a bit of christmas romance.

This box set is full of great stories all with a festive romance theme. It's hard to pick favourites but the ones that stood out to me were:

Recipe for love by Ruth Cardello. I have read about Maddie and Richard before in Ms Cardello's previous books and it was great to have a look at how they met and fell in love. It was super funny, romantic and families bonding over food. I really enjoyed it.

Must love santa by Nina Bruhns was good. A hot cop stuck with posing undercover as santa and a dog lover to boot, Nick was great. Emily Hasn't been having much luck but that may change when she literally falls at the sexy cops feet. This story was fun, sexy with some added suspense and great secondary canine characters. I love those cute doggies. Really enjoyable.

Those were my two favourites but I enjoyed reading all the stories in this set. They were all well written but each different in their own ways with some exotic and more normal locations. Great characters with hot cops, cowboys and doctors to name but a few. There were lighthearted stories but also mmore emotional ones. It will definitely leave you with that warm fuzzy holiday feeling when you finish.

Easy 5 stars from me at Calling All Bookaholics :)
Profile Image for Crystal.
495 reviews31 followers
October 21, 2014
What a great anthology! I loved each story and found new authors that I want to read more of. The stories were all wonderfully written and left me with a smile on my face. It would be hard for me to pick a favorite because they were all wonderful.

I would definitely recommend this anthology.

Profile Image for BooksandBeyondFiftyShades.
1,350 reviews158 followers
October 21, 2014
* * * * * 5 Star Review

Recepi for Love
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Ruth Cardello
Rated: R
Genry: Holiday Romance
Available Now

Maddy Andrade being the daughter of the Alessandro Andrade was a huge responsabilities to carry on her shoulders. The Andrade's were a huge Italian family that nothing matter more than each other.
When Maddy is faced with a secret that involves betrayel to a family member she is left to keep that secret to herself, not being comfortable with it, she does the first thing that comes to her mind... Running away far away from home. Maddy ends up in France where she meets Chef Richard a man with a dislike to Christmas.

Richard a well known chef and restaurant owner has a very good excuse for not liking Christmas or wealthy girls, thanks to his mother. However when he's put in a situation thanks to his sister and ends up hosting Maddy in his house, he knew he and his heart were in trouble.
Can Richard and Maddy let their attractions run wild and free or will their unresolved issues keep them apart?

Ruth Cardello once again delivered an exceptional novella.
I love this story, if you are looking for a fast pace romance then this is your book.

I recommend this book
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Must Love Santa
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Nina Bruhns
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now

* * * * * 5 Star Review

Detectice Nick Palladin and his 4 legged sidekick Zenon, were in a stalk job, some of his co-workers as well as his captain would tell him he wa obsessing about this particular case he worked on his days off. Never in his wild imagination would he had thought that one particular afternoon his life was going to change forever.

Emily Milan, was dogsitting for her bestfriend while she was gone for the holidays, she knew that in order for her life to change like she had been wanting she needed to aced the interview she had schedule for that afternoon. Emily being a dog lover she knew that taking care of Pogo was going to be an easy job. On her way to taking Pogo to her walk, before her interview, Emily is introduced to the man and dog that will change her future plans.

Can Nick and Emily find their HEA in the company of Zenon and Pogo?
Being a dog lover, I found this story one of my favorites. I love how this is a romantic suspence kind of love story.

If you are a dog lover, then this is the book for you. I recommend for you to read this book.
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An Almost Perfect Christmas
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Donna Fasano, Author
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Stars

When Christy volunteers to make Izzie last Christmas wish come true, she knew she was making her a very happy little girl fighting for her life. Having dealt with the pain of loosing her daughter, CHristy knew what Aaron, Izzie's dad was going through.

Aaron knew the end of his daughter's life was coming to an end and he would stop at nothing to grand her last wishes. After loosing his wife two years ago, Izzie was everything for him, and seeing his daughter fighting for her life was breaking his heart.

Izzie was an 8 year old girl fighting a great battle with cancer, but the biggest fight she wanted to win was living her daddy with someone that could take care of him. She was worried that once she was gone, he was going to be sad and lonely. So while Christy and Aaron were working hard at making her last christmans the best she had ever had, Izzie was planning a plot to make her daddy happy.

This is a lovely story. It shows you that even on your darkers momments there is always there for you to share your pain. Love will conquer everything.

By far this is the most wonderful book by far.
I love this story and I will recommend it for you to read it.
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Christmas Captive
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Rebecca York
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Star Review

Hannah was a very special nurse, she had a very special gift that only a couple fo people knew about it. When she is hired to help a very wealthy young man recover from an "accident" he suffers. Hannah knew this was a special case since she found herself feeling an attraction by Jordan when she saw his pictures. Hannah was putting her best in this case, since her feelings were also on the line.

Jordan knew someone close to him was trying to harmed him since they had killed his personal assistant. The only thing he had to do was to lay a trap for the traider. When Jordan had this weird dreams and he started talking to Hannah he knew he had to pulled out of this medicated coma someone had him. Jordan had never felt all this emotions he was experiencing in his dreams with Hannah and he knew he wanted to be with her once he was well.

Can Jordan and Hannah's unconventional relationship be strong enough for them to pull out of this horrible nightmare or will it be too late for them?

I was fascinated by this paranormal holiday romance. Love how Jordan and Hannah's love pulled them together and they found their HEA!!

I recomemnd for you to read this book.
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The Army Doctor's Honeymoon Baby
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Helen Scott Taylor
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Star Review

Blair and Lorna had been in each others lives since they can remember, and the love Blair has for Lorna has keep growing stronger as the years go by. Yet his feelings are only one way street since he knows Lorna doesn't feel the same way for him.

Lorna hated the Mackenzie's especially Blair's father. After being humiliated by him Lorna left the place she had always called home. Being a nurse in Africa was a way to be kept away from Scottland. But knowing that Blair is a doctor working with her is her happiness.
After being taken hostages by rebels Blair decides to come clean and let Lorna know about his feelings. Lorna on the other hand after finding out she decides to give Blair a chance in love. But there is a secret that she must share with Blair and she hopes this won't change anything in their future.

Will this secret change how Blair sees and feels about Lorna or will he forgive and forget and look forward to a future with Lorna?
I found this story lovely, loved how Blair and Lorna teach you a lesson in love.

I recommend this book.
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Kiss Me Santa
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Patrice Wilton
Ratad: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Star Review.

Cindy a single mother of a 5 year old Tyler was still getting used to the idea of being a single parent and a young widower, but she had to be strong for her son. One afternoon while shopping she takes Tyler to take a picture with Santa but little did she know that meeting this Santa was the start of a new life for her and Tyler.

Brad had so much in his plate, especially trying to help his brother a retired military man with a injury that had destroyed his life. For Brad helping his younger brother not to lose this job playing Santa at the mall, he decided he would take his brother place, but little did he knew that he would meet a very special boy and his beatiful mother.

When Cindy decides to put her house in the market the last thing she would imagine was to find Santa's helper at her door step. Neither Brad nor Cindy can deny their physical attraction and feelings they have started to flaired between them, but will they give each other a chance at love?

Kiss Me Santa is a story that will melt your heart and will also make you fall in love again.

I recommend for you to read this lovable book.
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An Unusual Christmas
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Mona Risk
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Star Review

Dr. Jillian Burton was used to travel helping hospitals in third world countries be updated. Her new mission was to help this small hospital in Minsk, Belarus Russia her specialty was pediatric. Jillian had a dark secret and helping young kids was one way to cope with her pain.

Dr. Fyodor Vassilov was the director of the hospital in Minsk, Belarus, a hospital that was in need of everything, yet he was able to manage with what he had. He was looking forward to get the much needed help from the delegation of doctors from America. Fyodor knew that eventually he needed to find a mother for his 4 children after losing his wife in the last childbirth. He knew he could never love anyone else like he loved his beloved wife.

Jillian and Fyodor are giving a second chance in life to find love and happiness but can they see that through their blinding pain?

I personally found this book incredible, love how this two broken souls found their forgiveness and love they both were desperetly needing without realizing it.

I recommend for you to read this incredible story.
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A Cowboy for Christmas
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Annie Jones
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Star Review

When Nina and Alex moved to New Mexico to start their new life and the dream their husband/father had invision before he passed away. Nina didn't realized that fixing a dude ranch to its original shape, would have take so much time and money, two major things she didn't have.

Clint Cooper took the job as a forman in this tourist dude ranch to take it easy and be able to heal from his latest injury that had him away from his passion rodeo. Clint love to hide in his rodeo performars in order to hide his pain of losing his wife and son. Not knowing how beautiful his new boss was.

Clint and Nina find themselves fighting their feeling for one anther yet is very difficult and it looks like fate and Alex are making them spend more time that neither one want to. But can they start a new beginning for this two lonely broken sould?

I was captivated with this love story. I love to read about a strong cowboy with a huge heart, and Annie Jones delivered that to perfection.

I will recomemnd for you guys to read this great story.
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The Christmas Honeymoon
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Alicia Street
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Star Review

After running to San Francisco from her hometown after being faced to cancelled her Christmas wedding Serena decided to come home and face the humiliation she endured last December. With the help of her favorite cousin and her cousin's roommate Serena makes the announcement that she will take back Christmas since she had stop loving her favorite holiday thanks to her ex-fiancee. The same day she arrives her cousin asked her to help in her cafe. Serena is faced to help this gorgeous guy with a attitude towards Christmas. Little did Serena knew was that same gorgeous guy was going to keep showing up in her path throughout her stay.

Demian was a very sucessful, gorgeous bachellor, he had a dream and that dream was to marry and have kids, but he knew that the type of girls he went out with were not the marring kind. One night he decided to stop for dinner at his favorite place where he is faced with a waitress that was not in the same chategory that he was used to date, yet he couldn't stop looking at her.

Funny how things work out Demian and Serena find themselves spending time with each other. Yet can they help each other healed old wounds so they can have their HEA?

Alicia Street has delivered a story with a positive message. I found myself wanting to find my Demian.

I recommend this book, you will not be disappointed.
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She's Not You
Ten Christmas Brides Box Set
By: Mimi Barbour
Rated: R
Genre: Holiday Romance
Available Now.

* * * * * 5 Star Review

When Jesse agreed to look after his younger sister pets while he was housesitting, he did not know he would meet Layla aka Yaya and her sick mother. As the day kept going he kept seeing Yaya out in the hallway and he knew the poor child had been crying. He was intrigued by it and he asked his sister about it that is when he finds out that Belle yaya's mother is a young widower and very sick.

Belle had been sick for a while and she was very weak her worse fear was to find out she had a terminal illness and would leave Yaya alone. Christmas was approacing fast and Belle knew she had to try and make herself better for Yaya's sake.

One afternoon after Yaya runs into Jesse's temporary house, he meets Belle and right away he was taken by her and her adorable daughter. Yet Jesse knows he can never love again thanks to his high school sweetheart that broke his heart.

Belle and Jesse finally decide to give in to their feelings for one another after Yaya is taken by the one person Belle is affraid of. But life has never been easy for either one of them and Jesse finds himself face to face with the one person that destroyed him.

Will Belle and Jesse be able to have the happy ending that they deserved or will the past destroyed what they have?

There are no words to describe how much I love this story, for once Yaya is one of my favorite characters by far. I also loved how Belle and Jesse struggled with their demons in order to find their happiness.

Once you read this book you will love it too. I recommend it
Profile Image for Susan Parkes.
137 reviews21 followers
October 25, 2014
I received this as an ARC and loved it. The stories are all well written and you fall in love with the characters.

Recipe for Love by Ruth Cardello.

This is a story about a a rich girl protected by her family, who just wants to get away and be by herself, and because of a misunderstanding Maddy ends up staying in the house of a locally famous chef. When they meet their is instant flames of attraction and the start of a beautiful story.

Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns

This story is about a cop doing undercover work on his day off and meeting the love of his life after his dog takes a fancy to her dog. Just loved this story and how the plot forms, well done Nina.

An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano

I started reading this book by Donna Fasano and it touched my heart because I can connect with the characters in this story.

The story is about a father, daughter, a wish list and a caring nurse. Izzie is very ill with cancer, she is an avid list maker and she has asked her father for a family Christmas with a make believe mommy as she lost her mum 2 years ago, and this is where the story starts with Aaron (the father) asking the staff at the hospital if anyone can help him give his daughter (Izzie), the family Christmas she wants. Christy (the nurse) steps forward and offers her assistance, to help Aaron help Izzie to tick off everything on her list.

I have to congratulate Donna Fasano on the compassionate way she has written this sad and beautiful love story, I read it in one sitting because I was drawn into this book. Emotion and love comes alive in these pages.

Christmas Captive by Rebecca York

I love paranormal romances and this was fabulous. It is about a rich entrepreneur, who is left for dead and in a coma. His family bring him home from the hospital to look after him but his gran is worried about him and she hires a nurse who hopefully can get through to him and bring him out of his coma.

The Army Doctor's Honeymoon Baby by Helen Scott Taylor


This story is about an army doctor and the woman he has loved all his life. Dr Mac and Lorna are kidnapped by rebel soldiers and during their capture Mac admits his feeling to Lorna but can Lorna keep him if or when he finds out about a secret she has been keeping.

Kiss Me Santa by Patrice Wilton

This is a story about a widowed mother and a real estate agent. Cindy takes her son Sam to the mall to see Santa and he asks Santa for a daddy, when Santa says he can not do this Sam grabs his beard and pulls and this is where Santa nearly swears and Cindy and Sam leave. Santa ends up being Cindy's real estate agent who she has not met yet and when they do, the fun starts.

An Unusual Christmas by Mona Risk

This is a beautiful story about love and loss and finding out that you can love and live again. Fyodor is a father of four boys who has lost his wife, he is a director at a hospital in Minsk and his mother has told him that it is time to find a new wife and a mother for his sons. Jillian is a doctor on an assignment at his hospital, she has lost a child and feels that she would not be a good mother. This story is how they overcome their fears and learn to love and trust again.

A Cowboy for Christmas by Annie Jones

This story is about a run down Dude ranch and the new owner and her cowboy foreman. Nina, a widowed mother buys a dude ranch because it was her late husbands dream. However, she bought it without seeing it and it was in need of some TLC. Clint is the foreman she has hired to help and they seem to bump heads on everything from breakfast to repairs. This is a lovely story of love, well worth a read.

The Christmas Honeymoon by Alicia Street

I loved this story of Serena and Damien, she is the woman who was left 10 days before her wedding and moved away to return to North Cove 12 months later and he is the rich good looking local boy who wants to find a wife. Serena and Damien are total opposites and I just loved how they got together, this is a story well worth your time to read. Quite librarian and sexy man = great combination.

She's Not You by Mimi Barbour

This is a story about a widowed mother suffering from an unknown illness and a beautiful three year old. Jesse is staying at his sisters to look after her pets when he keeps seeing a young child sitting in the hall. One day however, Layla (the three year old) comes running into the apartment trying to find Kim, Jesse's sister saying that her mum is dead. Jesse goes over to their apartment to find Belle lying on the floor coming to after fainting. He then starts to look after and care for the two and this story is about caring and moving forward. What a lovely Christmas story where everyone gets their wish.
32 reviews
October 28, 2014
I received this as an ARC for review. I loved it! The stories kept me interested and have different types of couples and situations. A little something for everyone. Reviewed by Allie Chapman

Recipe for Love by Ruth Cardello
This is about a a young woman,who was close to her wealthy family. She found out disappointing news from her father, and just wants to get away and be by herself to sort out her feelings. Maddy ends up as a guest of locally famous chef. He didn't expect her, nor she the feelings he aroused. Great interaction between them. Well written.
Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns
An undercover cop doing surveillance and a woman trying to find a job while helping a friend collide. They immediately click, but dance around each other before they get together. Great interplay between the couple.
An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano
The story is about a father, and his dying daughter's wish list and a caring nurse. Izzie is very ill with cancer, and she has a list. She has asked her father for a family Christmas with a make believe mommy as she lost hers 2 years ago. The story starts with the father asking the staff at the hospital if anyone can help him give his daughter, the family Christmas she wants. Christy (the nurse) steps forward and offers her aid, to help Aaron help Izzie to tick off everything on her list. I think Donna Fasano handled a very tough subject beautifully, with a lot of grace.
Christmas Captive by Rebecca York
It is about a successful entrepreneur in a coma. His family bring him home from the hospital to look after him but his grandmother is worried about him and she hires a firm, that in turn hires nurse who can connect on a mental level with some, hoping to wake him. Ms. York weaves an exciting and romantic tale.
The Army Doctor’s Honeymoon Baby by Helen Scott Taylor
Dr Mac, an army doc and Lorna are kidnapped by rebel soldiers and during their capture Mac admits his feelings to Lorna. Lorna is keeping a secret that she is ashamed of, and must tell him, if they are to be a couple.
Kiss Me Santa by Patrice Wilton
This is a story about a widowed mother. Cindy takes her son Sam to see Santa and he asks Santa for a daddy. Santa says he can't deliver, Sam gets upset and acts out. Santa gets upset and nearly swears in front of a line of kids. Cindy and Sam leave, then meet up in the food court and make amends. Santa ends up being Cindy’s real estate agent who she has not met. Their interaction is sweet.
An Unusual Christmas by Mona Risk
Fyodor is a widower with young four boys. He is a director at a hospital in Minsk. His mother has been feeling poorly and tells him that it is time to find a new wife and mother for his sons. Jillian is a doctor on a temporary assignment at his hospital. She has lost a child and feels that she would not be a good mother. This story is how they overcome their pasts, and learn to love again.
A Cowboy for Christmas by Annie Jones
A run down dude ranch's new owner meets and falls for her new cowboy foreman, Clint. Nina, a widow bought a dude ranch because it was her late husband's dream. She bought it sight unseen and it was in need of a great deal of work. She seems to bump heads on everything from breakfast to repairs with Clint. This is a well crafted story
The Christmas Honeymoon by Alicia Street
Serena was left 10 days before her planned Christmas wedding and moved away to avoid the embarrassment of running into the ex and wife. Returning to North Cove 12 months later, she meets Damien. Damien is the rich good looking local boy who wants to find a wife. Serena and Damien are an unlikely couple, but the relationship works well. Nicely written
She’s Not You by Mimi Barbour
This is a story about an ill widow,with an adorable 3 year old. Jesse is pet sitting at his sister's apartment, when he keeps seeing a young child sitting in the hall. One day, Layla (the three year old) comes running into the apartment trying to find Kim, Jesse’s sister saying that her mom is dead. Jesse goes over to their apartment to find Belle lying on the floor. He starts to look after and care for the them and has an idea of what's wrong with her. He ends up being their hero. Uplifting and perfect for the season.
Will definitely follow all the authors.
Profile Image for Shannon Binegar-Foster.
2,831 reviews19 followers
October 19, 2014
I received this box set in exchange for my honest review, which in no way influenced my opinion. I really enjoyed each and every book in the set. I was a bit leery of a couple as they were not my normal choice for romance storylines but was more than pleasantly surprised by them and hope to read many more books by all of the authors in the set. I thought it best to give each book its own recognition here are their reviews below.

Recipe For Love by Ruth Cardello
I found this to be a very charming story. I was taken in right away with the way Richard and Madison interacted and how their relationship developed. I especially loved when her entire family came for Christmas. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I have.

Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns
What a great Christmas story. You get romance, and mystery. I not only loved the romance between Nick and Emily, but between Zenon and Pogo. It is a very quick read. I was very pleased.

An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano
This is my first book by Donna. I was thoroughly impressed. You will need your box of Kleenex for this one. This is a book has bittersweet beginning with a very happy ending. It really tugged at my heart strings. What a wonderful gift the father gives his daughter. I am sure I will read this one at least 3 or 4 more times. It really warmed my heart. I was given an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. It in no way influenced my review. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Christmas Captive by Rebecca York
This was my first book by Rebecca. I enjoyed the story so much that I purchased the Decorah Security Collection to get the back story on the Decorah Agency. There is a paranormal element to this story. I really liked the way Hannah and Jordan connected. I am glad this was part of the Ten Christmas Brides boxed set as it gave me another great author to add to my list.

The Army Doctor’s Honeymoon Baby by Helen Scott Taylor
I normally prefer romantic comedy but this book really surprised me. I loved that Blair and Lorna are working together in an African refugee camp to help those less fortunate. This is action packed right from the beginning. I had not read any of Helen Scott Taylor’s previous books but this one has me adding all the other books in the series to my kindle wishlist. I can’t wait to read the stories of the rest of the Mackenzie clan and the other Doctor’s in the series.

Kiss me Santa by Patrice Wilton
I fell in love with this book right from the beginning. I just couldn’t put it down. It is a sweet Christmas story of a widow and a real estate agent AKA Santa’s Helper. It is a great love story with lots of holiday spirit thrown in.

An Unusual Christmas by Mona Risk
Once again I am pleasantly surprised by the story line. As I have said in a review for another book in the Ten Christmas Brides boxed set I normally choose romantic comedy. I found this story very moving. I enjoyed the characters very much and was moved to tears more than once over the loss the characters had and how they slowly worked through the pain. I would very much recommend this book.

A Cowboy for Christmas by Annie Jones
Oh my gosh, this book had me chuckling out loud from the beginning. It is such a sweet charming story. Of course a hunky cowboy doesn’t hurt. This is a real fun story I really enjoyed reading it. I am sure I will read it again.

The Christmas Honeymoon by Alicia Street
A really great Christmas romance story, I just loved how Serana who was so very much Christmas until becoming a jilted bride on Christmas interacts with Damien was so much Scrooge as she fights to “Take Back Christmas”. This was a delightful read. I look forward to reading more books by Alicia.

She’s Not You by Mimi Barbour
WOW this one really tugged at my heartstrings from beginning to end. The dynamic between Jesse and Layla is precious. He is a big tough guy turned to mush by a sweet child. This story has everything you could want fear, sadness, compassion, heartache, forgiveness, angst and love. I just couldn’t put it down until I finished every last word.


Profile Image for LaVida Brisco - One Last Page Book Blog.
763 reviews10 followers
November 10, 2014
Holiday Heroes

This was a heartwarming boxset filled with a wonderful assortment of fantastic authors and delicious holiday stories. In Ruth Cardello's Recipe for Love we have Maddie and Richard who neither expected to find love while searching for what they felt they life was missing. In Nina Bruhns "Must Love Santa" Nick never expected that his dog Zenon would lead him (literally) to the love of his life. In An Almost Christmas by Donna Fasano Aaron wants to give his daughter a perfect Christmas along the way he never expected that his daughter gives him just what he needed and didn't know it. Christmas Captive (The Decorah Security Series) by Rebecca York we meet Jordan who is unconscious from a accident and Hannah a nurse is asked to figure out what happened using her special skills as a psychic. What do you do when the man you fall in love with is in a coma, go on one helluva journey to get to the bottom of it. In The Army Doctor's Honeymoon Baby (The Army Doctor's Series) by Helen Scott Taylor Blair has always been in love with his best friend Lorna who was afraid to return his feelings because of a terrible secret. Once held hostage Lorna realizes that times wasted could have been spent loving the man she loves. Kiss Me Santa by Patrice Wilton Cindy and Brad meet for the first time when they were both having bad days. Brad has been burned by love but Cindy and her son just might show him that a second chance at love is worth the risk. An Unusual Christmas by Mona Risk Dr. Jillian threw herself in her work to escape the demons of her past and Fyodor needs a wife for his boys. The attraction is mutual but can Jillian let go of the things from her past with the help of a good man, his boys and a little girl who needs her. A Cowboy for Christmas by Annie Jones is about Nina and Clint who was both recovering from horrible losses. Together with the help of Nina's son Alex and the ranch workers they discover that Santa sometimes gives you a person to share your pain with and make you a better person. In The Christmas Honeymoon by Alicia Street we have the quiet librarian Serena who comes to take her hometown back and create better memories from the last time she was there. She meets Damien who's intrigue with her from the start. Through a series of accidental meeting and jealous rivals from high school they realize that their happiness is found in each other arms. Last and certainly not least we have She's Not You by Mimi Barbour Belle is running from a situation that is beyond her control, she gets sick and her daughter Yaya runs to the neighbor down the hall who house-sitting for his sister. Jesse lost his first love and never recovered until he helps his sister's neighbor and her little girl and realize that love is better when its the woman you're meant to be with.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,265 reviews53 followers
October 21, 2014
This a great collection of Christmas stories. All different settings and scenarios. Most have you tearing up, but in each one the magic of the season wins out.

Recipe for Love: This is a cute story of unexpected events. So much for assumptions and stereotypes. These two are in a shock when Madison accepts the help of Richard's sister to hide away for a bit. Sparks instantly fly, but can these two coexist before they kill each other, See the magic of the holiday season work it's magic on these two.

Must Love Santa: Detective Nick knows how to be on sexy Santa. A freak encounter, two horny dogs, and throw in a criminal things are bound to get interesting for Emily and Nick. Really loved this one couldn't stop reading.

An Almost Perfect Christmas: This story is so sad yet so happy. Get the tissues out for this one. I almost didn't want to read this one because I knew it was going to be a tearjerker. I'm glad I read it because it brings home the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas Captive: This story is a little different because the hero is in a coma. A little paranormal element to it and some mystery. The time is of the essence for nurse Hannah to bring Jordan out of a coma and figure out who is after his life before it's too late.

The Army Doctor's Honeymoon Baby: For ten years these two have had feelings for one another, but Lorna fled Scotland and never looked back. Now they're working together in an African refugee camp, but trouble comes a knocking when they get kidnapped leading to them realizing life is too short. But can it work between these two when Blair finds out the secret Lorna has been keeping all these years?

Kiss Me Santa: This one wasn't my favorite from the bunch. Brad just rubbed me the wrong way and it just took me a while to warm up to him. I felt for the heroine Cindy everything she is dealing with.

An Unusual Christmas: It took me a bit to get into this one, but boy once I did I couldn't put it down. Jillian has such hurt and guilt inside of her that she believes she can't be a good mother again, but once Fyodor and his brood crash into her life it will never be the same again. The HEA in this one warms your heart.

A Cowboy for Christmas: First off love the title of this one because who wouldn't want a cowboy for Christmas. This was a cute funny story. I found myself smiling and chuckling a lot through this one. I loved Plinkey the pony. Clint and Nina come to the Dude Ranch to start a new chapter in their lives, but they didn't except the magic of the holiday season to weave itself.

The Christmas Honeymoon: will add once I read story

She's Not You: will add once I read story

Profile Image for Kai Hunter.
594 reviews
November 13, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Ten Christmas Brides is a group of 10 holiday romances by different authors. The author that gifted the book to me wrote the 10th book, so that is where I started. I want to preface my review with the fact that Christmas romances are my not so guilty reading pleasure and I will read one whenever I get the chance. OK, here goes:

As of 11/1/14, I am on the 4th story of the collection but my 5th story overall. I find this collection very enjoyable. It is keeping me up on nights I have work the next day so that I can read more.

10. She's Not You by Mimi Barbour (4 stars)
Over all an excellent holiday read. The story line is very busy with so many different things happening you have to keep up. At first I was worried that it was so busy that Christmas would be overlooked, but holding on to the end was very worth it for the holiday touch. Jesse was a very likeable hero while I had a bit harder job liking Belle until late in the book. Yaya was adorable and well written. Unfortunately this book falls victim to my most despised pet peeve. On at least one occasion Jesse's name is misspelled and Belle is identified as Layla. Other than that the grammatical errors were limited to extra or repeated words and were easy to over look. So the book definitely makes the grade.

1. A Recipe for Love by Ruth Cardello (3 stars)
A good romance with a strong family bond, but absolutely nothing tying it to Christmas. this story could have been set at any time of the year. I think the author set it at Christmas so that it would fit into this collection. There was no tradition, no description of celebrations. A romance worth reading, but don't look for the holiday here.

2. Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns (4 stars)
This one was holiday silly and completely loveable. A hot romance with a bit of excitement thrown in. It had me counting on the fact that it was Christmas so everything would work OK.

3. An almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano (4 stars)
Izzie is eight and dieing. Her Dad wants to give her a perfect last Christmas. This story was emotionly difficult but still very good to read. I also enjoyed the beach setting. As I am in the process of working through grief issues myself, I think this story will stay with me for a long time.

4. Christmas Captive by Rebecca York (Currently reading)
Profile Image for Candy Laine.
Author 7 books8 followers
October 18, 2014
I received a advanced copy of the book, in exchange for a Honest Review

Ten Christmas Brides boxed set is absolutely wonderful ! Having read Ruth Cardello’s billionaire series, it was nice to find out the back story to Maddy and Richard’s romance in France. Considering the important part that Maddy plays all though the billionaire series, it was nice to be introduced to her as a young girl before she met the love of her life. Richard was also marvelous. I loved the way he created wonderful new dishes in the kitchen when in love and burnt everything in the restaurant when she went away…

Detective Nick makes a hot Santa as Emily discovers in Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns. The dogs are as adorable as their owners in this story. Of course the running to rescue the damsel in distress is beautifully done as well.
An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano made me cry smile through the tears. It has the heart breaking tale of how two parents, who both lost a child, connect over shared grief. The story is simple, the characters so well sketched and the love that grows totally believable. As always Donna weaves a story that tugs on your heart strings.

Aaron is a successful businessman who wants to give his cancer ridden daughter her last wish - A family christmas celebration. Chrissy is a pediatric nurse who decides to help him as she was unable to fulfill her own daughter's last wish. Izzy, the little patient has more serious plans for the two of them. I loved this story! Kudos to the author for taking a very sensitive issue for grieving parents and turning it into a life lesson, where while everything may never be perfect, it can be almost perfect.

And this is just the first three stories in the box. Looking forward to reading the rest
Profile Image for Tabitha Jones.
303 reviews15 followers
October 20, 2014
WOW!!! what can I say!!! this boxset deserves way more than 5 stars!!!!

I am a lover of anything Christmas and this was right up my alley! Heart felt and heart warming stories of love all boxed up. Although I am not completely done with all of the books yet here are my reviews for what i have read.

Recipe for Love by Ruth Cardello what a sweetly written romance of love and food. Madison decides to take off to Italy for some quiet time. Little did she know she would run into French Chef Richard and the magic would begin.They always say the heart grows fonder with food.

Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns a quirky detective romance. When Emily sets off to a job interview she never thought she would end up in the arms of Detective Nick. Nick who is playing an undercover Santa was smitten with Emily and her friend's dog and so was Zenon Nick's K-9 unit dog. After Nick discovers Emily's wallett adn returns it to her boy do the sparks fly.

An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano Wow! I don't even know where to begin. This story will totally pull on your heart strings.be sure to have a box of tissues on hand. Little Lizzie battling Leukemia only wants one wish to have the perfect Christmas. Her dad Aaron decides to give her just that and hopes that one of the nurses at the hospital will play mom for the weekend. Christy a sweet nurse who helps tend to Izzie decides to give it a chance and spends Christmas with them. Little did they know buy Christy had also lost her daughter. A sweet, enduring book one that will make you hold your little one a bit closer.

Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,352 reviews119 followers
October 17, 2014
Having only read the first two stories in this collection I know I will have much fun reading to come between now and Christmas. If the first two are anything to go by these stories are steamy and loving and full of fun!

The first story in this bundle was written by Ruth Cardello and is about a college graduate from a wealthy loving family who has just heard a “secret” and is not happy so flies off in her private jet to France. This story of Madison and Richard, the wealthy princess and the talented chef, is one that is sweet and loving and filled with the message that family and love of family is very important. As with all love stories there is a glitch to deal with but it is also a happily ever after story perfect for the holidays.

The second book is by Nina Bruns and is the story of Nick and Emily. He is a vice cop trying to catch a human trafficker before joining the K-9 squad and she is looking for a new job in the city that will provide more excitement than she had in small town New Hampshire. There is chemistry and fun with an almost love at first sight beginning. There is also danger and action before the happy ending. Another great story for the holidays.

I can hardly wait to read the rest of the books in this bundle…eight more to go and eager to read each and every one of them! And…how can you beat the price at 99cents for all ten?
Profile Image for Vicki Rathburn.
30 reviews
October 26, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I loved this book! Each story is amazing. In RECIPE FOR LOVE, Ruth Cardello writes a story of love and family. She is an awesome storyteller. MUST LOVE SANTA by Nina Bruhns is a great story! It made me laugh and I love the suspense of finding out how the bad guy did it. ALMOST PERFECT by Donna Fasano is a heartwarming story of healing and finding love through pain. Loved it!! CHRISTMAS CAPTIVE by Rebecca York is great! I love a good mystery/love story and this one did not disappoint. THE ARMY DOCTOR'S HONEYMOON by Helen Scott was a perfect friends to lovers story. KISS ME SANTA by Patrice Wilton is a sweet story of finding love in the most unlikely place - dressed as Santa.. AN UNUSUAL CHRISTMAS by Mona Risk is a story of healing and family. Truly a great read. A COWBOY FOR CHRISTMAS by Annie Jones is great! I love the story of starting over and how a small boy changes the outlook for Christmas and Love. THE CHRISTMAS HONEYMOON by Alicia Street is a story of reclaiming the Christmas spirit and finding love in the process. Loved it! SHE'S NOT YOU by Mimi Barbour is a perfect Christmas story from beginning to end. I fell in love with the characters from the start!

I highly recommend this book!
510 reviews8 followers
October 21, 2014
ARC was received to an honest review!!!!

This has Ten New York Times, USA Today and National best-selling authors that celebrate the holiday season with this boxed set of stories brimming with emotion, holiday spirit and happy ever after.

Recipe for Love by Ruth Cardello is a story about a young woman trying to escape her family and falls for a sexy French chef. If you read the Legacy series and the Andreas series you'll know Maddie. This is her story and I loved it. I only wished it was a full length novel. All of these stories had their own special meaning. Some tearing at your heartstrings but love and Christmas taking over. This is a wonderful set of novellas written by magnificent authors. You couldn't have asked for a better set and such a wonderful price. I highly recommend this and hope you grab this for the holiday season. I don't think you'll be disappointed. I know I wasn't. Each and every author produced a wonderful reading adventure and I found aa couple that I hadn't read before so I'll be grabbing some of their other books.
Profile Image for Marissa.
3,587 reviews47 followers
October 18, 2014
ARC Kindle for Review

As the holiday season is quickly approaching, these are ten different love stories by ten different authors centering round Christmas and love. A little bit of everything for readers to enjoy from the wonders of children, foreign destinations, unexpected connections involving love.

You are transported it into settings taking you on a wild ride. You find love takes it is own twist and turns and when you least it expected.

This box set gives you ten tales to fall in love with during the holiday season. Enjoy the season with these stories as it keeps the holiday spirit going.
Profile Image for Mayas.
2,435 reviews48 followers
October 21, 2014
If you want to increase your Christmas cheer and indulge with a lot of romance, laughs, love, and down right adorability then this box set is a MUST purchase. I awed from the beginning with Ruth story with Maddie to the end Belle. I truly believe the the joy of holidays and love start with the kids and a little helping hand and oh do these books had it in spades.

Thank you ladies for bringing back the joy and love and the reason the holidays are so dear. Having love, family and a little "i do" will lift the spirits and hopes of many women.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
448 reviews1 follower
October 21, 2014
I loved each story - they each had its own special quality. They ALL are heartwarming.
This is not going to be lengthy review just so you get the gist of each story - save your eyes & read the book - I LOVED IT!!!

Recipe of Love - humor and charm.
Must Love Santa -sweet.
An Almost Perfect Christmas - emotional
Christmas Captive - suspenseful
The Army Doctor's Honeymoon Baby - secrets and true love
Kiss me Santa - second chances
An Unusual Christmas - forgiveness
A Cowboy for Christmas - sweet hunky cowboy
The Christmas Honeymoon - courage
She's Not You - Heart wrenching
Profile Image for Cathy Skendrovich.
Author 5 books131 followers
November 20, 2014
I love Christmas anthologies. I love reading various holiday stories that make me feel good. And I went into this set with high hopes.
All the stories began well enough. I liked their premises, H/h's, and humor and/or descriptions. But what I did not like was the very, very graphic sex scenes in some of them. I did not think they contributed to the stories; i.e., they did not move the plot along. Many readers like that description; I happen not to be one of them, and I actually put the book down and moved on to a new one.
Profile Image for Heather Cicio.
186 reviews13 followers
October 22, 2014
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This book is a collection of love stories that revolve around the holidays. Each story is unique in its own way. Some make you cry, some make you laugh, some do both! But the one thing they all have in common is that they all warm your heart. They are well written and flow smoothly. I recommend this book if you like a feel good love story!
Profile Image for Christi Lofton.
408 reviews
October 19, 2014
Ten great short reads by ten phenomenal authors. This is a book that you grab and read one or two novellas at a time or you can sit down and read the whole thing at once. There are moments of emotion, moments of humor, moments of first love, and moments of tortured years of love. Five Stars to this collection. Grab it now!
Profile Image for Delene Yochum.
131 reviews9 followers
October 21, 2014
Holiday Romance Boxset to warm the coldest heart! I was privileged to be granted a copy to read before release. These books are heartwarming, heart wrenching and a great read for lovers of any and all romance genres. An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano will stay with me forever as a must read holiday romance every year. Start your holidays reads off by purchasing this boxset!!
36 reviews2 followers
October 21, 2014
this is a wonderful opportunity to discover new authors and to come home to the tried and true. Like so many I too have my favorite but it was neat to read other authors too. Ten story's of love, now what could be better than that at a time of the year when we may need to be reminded of good things in the hustle and bustle of the season.
Profile Image for My Book Addiction and More MBA.
1,958 reviews71 followers
October 28, 2014
Ten best selling authors have put together ten awesome reads of romance, Christmas magic and love. A must read collection that is fast paced and delicious from the first page to the last. Highly recommended for your Christmas pleasure. It was hard to pick just one favorite. Some were new to me authors, some old favorites, ALL were absolute delights.
Profile Image for Chrissy.
433 reviews6 followers
October 9, 2014
I received a advanced copy of the book, in exchange for a Honest Review...

I have to say, I am only about the 5th, book in and I Have to say I love this book. It is a sweet romance get yours today, you will enjoy in it.....

Profile Image for Nancy Luebke.
1,466 reviews62 followers
October 31, 2021
I finally finished this set of romances. They were a mixture from erotic to sweet with several in between. With ratings from 3.5* to with three 5*'s, I've given the whole set a 4.5* rating and It's not for the under 18 readers. Some were wonderful, while other's I could hardly get through them. Just keep this in mind when buying sets with various authors.
Profile Image for Abra.
594 reviews15 followers
March 7, 2015
All the novellas in this anthology are self-contained stories with no teasers. I liked most of the stories, but the body count seemed pretty high - out of ten novellas there were six dead spouses, four dead children, and several people whose parents died while they were young.

Recipe for Love by Ruth Cardello: The very immature heroine meets the jaded hero in France. This is ok, but be aware that the hero makes a big life decision for the heroine without her input.

Must Love Santa by Nina Bruhns: I really liked this story about a cop trying to solve a human trafficking case and meets a woman moving to NYC for a job. I particularly liked that she solved a major part of the case in a very believable way.

An Almost Perfect Christmas by Donna Fasano:The heroine is an oncology nurse who helps a widower make a perfect Christmas for his very ill daughter. There's no way you can't go super sweet with a plot line like this, but I liked it anyway.

Christmas Captive by Rebecca York: This was terrible. It's about a nurse/psychic (not a problem) who travels to a remote mansion to care for a rich handsome guy in a coma. He was attacked by a mysterious person and is possibly in danger. The heroine feels an immediate bond with the hero and considers having sex with him to pull him out of his coma (that's the problem). They have sex while she's in his dreamworld (so only mentally after all) and fall instantly in love. The tension at the end is caused by the typical "why didn't he just tell her that" plot point.

The Army Doctor's Honeymoon Baby by Helen Scott Taylor: The hero is a British army doctor working in Africa with an aid worker who is his childhood love. They get captured by rebels, but eventually go back to where they both grew up in Scotland. I liked this one: it is a basic, gentle story.

Kiss Me Santa by Patrice Wilton: This was a really nice story. A widow with a young boy has to sell her home and the hero is the realtor.

An Unusual Christmas by Mona Risk: I really liked this very complete novella. The heroine, a pediatrician working for an American aid group, is on a six month assignment to bring up-to-date equipment and supplies to a hospital in Belarus. The hero is the hospital director. My only wish is that I could have heard that awesome Russian accent.

A Cowboy for Christmas by Annie Jones: This novella is the most irritating thing I have read in a very long time. The heroine, a widow with a small boy, has bought a run down dude ranch sight unseen and hires the hero, an injured rodeo rider, to oversee the renovations. The heroine is prissy and unable to admit making a mistake or not being knowledgable about everything despite having no experience. The hero, whose wife and son both died, knows he's a sap for a sob story, but falls in love with the heroine despite her continual rudeness. The son tells everyone that the hero is his new dad and for some reason all the adults believe the boy rather than his mother. The hero knows about the dad thing from the beginning, but he never takes the boy aside for a talk and just lets it ride while he decides if he's going to stick around or not.

The Christmas Honeymoon by Alicia Street: Small town girl goes back home to the town where she was dumped by her fiancé two weeks before their wedding so he could marry his pregnant ex-girlfriend. Basic stuff - she's shy, people pleasing, and doesn't know she's beautiful, but learns to take care of herself. It's a nice story.

She's Not You by Mimi Barbour: This story was okish, but it took the pining for the high school girlfriend thing to a new low. I think the hero is in his early thirties and he has a photo of the girlfriend on his bedside table. Since he's only house sitting for his sister, I guess he travels with it. Ick. The heroine is a widow with a very young daughter who is befriended by the hero when he sees the daughter crying in the hallway between their apartments. The ex-girlfriend turns out to be the heroine's step-sister. There were quite a few editing problems including using he when it should have been she, using the wrong character's name, and words missing from sentences.

This anthology was good. A few of the stories were clunkers, but most were fine or better.
Profile Image for Kym.
572 reviews11 followers
November 30, 2014
Genre: Contemporary Christmas Anthology
This is a collection of 10 short stories and novellas. Overall, an interesting collection, though most were predictable. There were a variety of settings, from Africa, Scotland, and Belarus, to both coasts of the US. The one stand-out story for me was Christmas Captive by Rebecca York, which had an interesting premise and enjoyable characters. It was so different from the others.
I can't do a decent review because I didn't zoom right through as I usually do, therefore I can't remember specifics. Maybe next time I'll make notes. Sufficient to say that some of the stories made me want to roll my eyes from the sheer predictability of the plots. And the plot devices! Some made me want to scream. I've said it before and I'll say it again - I hate stupid as plot device. And stubbornness/lack of communication.
This was inexpensive, and if you have time (I think you could read this and watch TV at the same time), it's okay.
Profile Image for Marie.
180 reviews5 followers
December 30, 2014
This box set is fabulous! There's quite the variety of stories - from steamy and erotic to mysterious and contemporary, it's a little something for everyone :) It's a wonderful collection for lovers of the Holiday Romance sub-genre, and fun quick reads for those of us who just enjoy a great love story.

Each story has it's own unique characteristics that make it great. Every one takes the reader to a new and sometimes exotic place that enhances the wonderment factor and the holiday spirit, as well as several well developed and likable characters.

As a lover of books, this is one anthology that I'll gladly recommend to everyone I meet! :)

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own.
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,469 reviews52 followers
November 11, 2014
~Received For An Honest Review~



Ten wonderful stories right in time for Christmas, well any time! Just the perfect weather to snuggle down and enjoy some heart felt books! All are well written and will make you fall in love with each character! You have a little bit of everything in each book that you read. Will will laugh, cry, and sit on the edge of your seat as you turn the pages. You guess will take you in a direction just to be surprised that the book takes you into another direction.
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