A new collection from some of your favorite inspirational authors:
From USA Today bestselling author Janet Tronstad, a new retro romance The Day Gina Rossi Lost Her Yet: Gina Rossi has dreamed of being Marco Scaglia's sweetheart for as long as she can remember. But just when it looks like her dream might come true, her life gets crazy.
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Mondello, a new contemporary romance The Gift: When Allison Jones finds a small envelope on the ground, CEO Derek Holden accuses her of stealing the money that was supposed to be inside. Knowing what the envelope means for a little girl, Allison is determined to not only fulfill the gift herself, but to prove to Derek that there is more to life than just money. Derek didn't need the simple conventions of life...until he met Allison. He soon learns that a bank account full of money is no match for a heart full of love...
From New York Times bestselling author Lenora Worth, a contemporary romance A Palm Tree Christmas: When an overworked, heartbroken Atlanta nurse takes a holiday on the Gulf coast, she meets a widower with two adorable children and rethinks what love really means. Together, Clara and Hank rediscover Christmas and maybe the beginning of something more.
From Amazon bestselling author Margaret Daley, a new romantic suspense Deadly Holiday: Tory Caldwell witnesses a hit-and-run, but when the dead victim disappears from the scene, police doubt a crime has been committed. Tory is threatened when she keeps insisting she saw a man killed and the only one who believes her is her neighbor, Jordan Steele. Together, can they solve the mystery of the disappearing body and stay alive?
From Carol Winner and CBA Bestselling author Pamela Tracy, a new historical romance Two by Two: In 1880's Arizona Territory, Frank Barlett, a Yuma prison guard, heads to the mining town of Bisbee in order to bury his younger brother Jasper and see that his widow has safe passage home. The widow isn't who or what Frank expected and doesn't have a home to be escorted to. Emmaline Bartlett has a secret or two and every time Frank uncovers one, it's just one more reason he's got to protect her.
From award-winning author Camille Elliot, a new Regency romance The Spinster’s Christmas: Spinster Miranda Belmoore and naval Captain Gerard Foremont, old childhood friends, meet again for a large Christmas party at Wintrell Hall. Miranda is making plans to escape a life of drudgery as a poor relation in her cousin’s household, while Gerard battles bitterness that his career was cut short by the injury to his knee. However, an enemy has infiltrated the family party, bent on revenge and determined that Twelfth Night will end in someone’s death ...
From fan favorite author Lacy Williams, a new contemporary cowboy romance Mistletoe Cowboy: After suffering a career-ending injury, bull rider Justin Michaels has stalled out. At twenty-seven, he’s back in college to try and find direction for his life. Valri North is a few credits away from completing her pre-med degree. She’s got her life planned out, until a disastrous assignment in class and a distracting cowboy threaten to derail her carefully-ordered plans.
From award-winning author Cheryl Wyatt, a new contemporary romance A Refuge Christmas: Refuge police officer Connor Stallings is facing the challenge of his career: new mayor Adrianna White, who wants to restructure his beloved town upside down. Adrianna’s heart is in the right place, but as she and the handsome police officer clash, they grow close enough to glimpse on their horizon a partnership of vows beyond helping the quirky but close-knit town.
Janet grew up in the wide open spaces of rural Montana and now lives in the urban spaces of Pasadena, California. She's used both of these locations in her books. Her Dry Creek, Montana series numbers over twenty novels now and her Pasadena books, The Sisterhood of the Dropped Stitches, number four.
This is the third of the Inspy Kisses novella collections and, once again, the stories are just wonderful. I believe that there is pretty much something for everyone in this collection. And if you are like me and enjoy many different types of stories, it is great to have them all in one set. Each story has a Christmas theme, but they are all stand alone stories. I did have favorites among the bunch, but felt that all of the stories were enjoyable, each in their own way.
The Day Gina Rossi Lost Her Yet by Janet Tronstad – This is a sweet story set in the 1950’s and follows a young lady who just doesn’t seem to understand that she has set her heart years ago on a man who is not the one God intended her for. This tale will have you hoping that Gina will finally figure out the man that God has set apart for her from the beginning.
The Gift by Lisa Mondello – This contemporary novella is sweet and moves quickly! But, I was impressed that the author had me very interested in the romance of the two main characters in such a short time period. This is a tale of a wealthy man who learns that helping others is much more than just giving money, and of the young lady who never had much but ends up winning his heart.
A Palm Tree Christmas by Lenora Worth – This contemporary story is so very good! Two broken-hearted people find love when they least expect it. I was very impressed with how realistic this novella felt. It was not rushed and although the attraction was there between the two main characters, the reality that Hank and his children are still grieving the death of his wife keeps the romance from taking off faster than it should. This tale is sweet and gentle and filled with hope.
Deadly Holiday by Margaret Daley – For romantic suspense fans, this novella delivers the action, sizzling attraction and suspense you are looking for. Tory and Jordan are out to prove that the crime Tory witnessed really occurred. This is a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat story that has many twists and turns. This tale is full of intrigue.
Two by Two by Pamela Tracy – This historical romance was wonderful! I loved the way this author allowed these two main characters to get to know each other. I really liked Emmy and Jasper. This tale begins as an awkward situation, where Jasper needs to find a way to help his brother’s widow, but turns into a sweet romance and the promise of a beautiful future.
The Spinster’s Christmas by Camille Elliot – I loved this regency novella! What a great story. I was happy to read that there will be more stories in the future with other characters that I became close to. I really liked Miranda and Gerard and the way the romance developed. There were also so many seemingly hopeless situations that God used for good. This is a tale of romance, but is also filled with danger and intrigue, as well as secrets from the past that come to light.
Mistletoe Cowboy by Lacy Williams – I loved reading Justin and Valri’s story in this contemporary novella. These two people seem like such opposites, but share a connection right from the start. Justin truly does not feel worthy of Valri and the goals she has for her life. I loved watching things work out for these two! This is a tale for those who love stories with strong cowboys!
A Refuge Christmas by Cheryl Wyatt – This contemporary novella is set in a small town. Two strong individuals try their best to do what is right for the town of Refuge, but keep ending up at odds about what that is. Can these two Christians learn to work together for the good of the town, and set a godly example for underprivileged youth? When the attraction between these two begins to build, they are going to have to figure out what path to take. This tale stresses the importance of forgiveness and working to make things right when they have gone wrong.
This is such a great collection of Christmas stories!
My thanks to the authors of this collection for the complimentary copy I received. This review is my honest opinion and no monetary compensation was received.
Mistletoe Kisses: Part 2 (Inspy Kisses) is a delightful collection of stand-alone novellas. Would make a great gift to be read any time of the year!
The Day Gina Lost Her Yet by Janet Tronstad—at first I thought what a strange title, which is probably just the reaction the author wanted. Gina Rossi is only 31. She thought she had plenty of time to find happiness and settle down but her grandmother thinks otherwise. Maybe her forever guy is Marco Scaglia. His first proposal came when she was 16 under the mistletoe she thought he had precariously hung. She’d said no but if he would just ask again! Ric Scaglia, Marco’s brother, comes in to Gina’s uncle’s deli where she works and his order is a signal to Gina that Marco, now a Hollywood actor, is coming in for Christmas. Will this be her chance? Childhood crushes, reality, as well as the truth find Gina reevaluating her feelings and her life. Mistletoe Kisses, how sweet they are! This novella is full of romance, sweetness and surprises, and you’ll discover the day Gina lost her yet! You will enjoy!
The Gift by Lisa Mondello Allison Jones grew up in a foster home. Now living in Boston she has a job but with living expenses high her bank account pretty much looks pathetic. On her way to work she finds a white envelope-no money inside, just a wish list from a five-year old girl of things she would like for Christmas. Allison recognized the logo on the list from the shelter she remembered as a child. Derek Holden lost an envelope containing $1,000 in cash to buy a needy child gifts for Christmas. He felt like an idiot, then he spots a woman holding an envelope—his envelope. He approaches her in a very accusatory way and their adventure begins. Allison knows if she doesn’t fulfill the little girl’s wish list it will be a sad Christmas. Derek who’s been blessed with building a fortune, willingly just writes the check to charity each year without giving much thought into what he is doing. Although Allison and Derek are two very different people they learn from each other. This is a fairy-tale like story of hope, love and the true meaning of Christmas.
A Palm Tree Christmas by Lenora Worth Two weeks of warm, tropical winds and swaying palm trees is just the comfort Clara Kirkwood needs for Christmas after an ugly breakup with the man she'd planned to marry. Now she didn't see marriage and children in her future any time soon. Hank Sullivan and two precious children, Lance and Lauren, are spending Christmas on the beach. Something different for the twins after their mom died. Clara and Hank's cottages are next to each other and their meeting is a divine appointment orchestrated by two precocious children. As they spend time together, the are drawn to each other but are they ready to take the next step? Are the children ready? This story is so delightful I found myself wanting to spend Christmas on the beach and decorating A Palm Tree! Fun read!
Deadly Holiday by Margaret Daley Margaret Daley is a master at writing suspense that will keep you turning pages, thinking you know who done it, only to finish and find you were wrong. Deadly Holiday starts with a witness, Tory Caldwell, a speeding black sports car, a dead body that mysteriously disappears and one Sergeant Bennett who questions how you can have a hit-and-run without a body. You'll find this novella is full of suspense, romance and the feel of a special Christmas for Tory, her ten year-old son, Morgan, and handsome neighbor Jordan Steele. Each book I've read of Margaret Daley is enjoyable, full of intrigue and suspense and impossible to put down until you finish. Loved it!
The Spinster's Christmas by Camille Elliott is a heartwarming story set in Dorsetshire, England, during Christmas of 1810. As Christmas is celebrated with a gathering of the haves and have-nots, you will be drawn to Miranda who is at the mercy of her rich cousin, Sir Cecil Belmoore and his catty wife, Felicity, as her parents have died and there is no other place for her to go. Captain Gerard Foremont, who is recovering from injuries received on a ship, suddenly seems the target of someone wanting to do him harm. Could it be one of the men under his command out to seek revenge? When the woman attacks, Miranda is always close by, maybe he is not the target? This is a story of intrigue, romance and a man's desire to make a woman whom everyone thought was a spinster feel loved and beautiful. Delightful and enjoyable!
Two by Two by Pamela Tracy In 1889 in Brisbee, Arizona, when the mine company whistle blew Emmaline Bartlett felt the cold finger of fear trace a path down her back. The sound could only mean bad news for the men or worse for his wife, and now it's her turn. With Jasper gone where will she turn. Frank Bartlett learns of his brother's death and of Jasper's wife and travels to help sort things out. What he finds surprises him! He honors his brother by taking Emmy with him back to Yuma where he works as a prison guard. Emmy is a brave, strong, young woman who does her part to survive. Frank is a strong man who just wants to do what is right. A sweet love story that tells how God met Emmy's needs and it is reassurance He will meet our needs. A great historical fiction romance I know you will enjoy!
Mistletoe Cowboy by Lacy Williams I love Lacy Williams cowboy stories and Mistletoe Cowboy is a fun, romantic Christmas story. Justin Michaels, a tough, former bull rider, is really a marshmallow on the inside. He is loyal to his family but after his bull riding days ended abruptly after a bull stepped on him, other than work on his ranch, he has no real goals just day-to-day. He meets Valri from the coffee shop, who works hard and knows the direction she is headed in life. Justin begins to realize maybe he needs to set some goals or does he have commitment issues? You will enjoy the sparks that fly between Justin and Valri, the mistletoe kisses and the answer to the question "is this the best Christmas ever?" A great Christmas gift or stocking stuffer but actually can be read anytime!
A Refuge Christmas by Cheryl Wyatt is a delightful story of good intentions, truth and forgiveness. Adrianna White comes to Refuge, Illinois, serving as mayor to try to right a wrong she believes her brother is responsible for. As an outsider the changes she intends to make are not making her very popular and she feels so alone. Handsome and strong Office Connor Stallings walks a wide circle around his new boss but finds himself attracted to her. Their relationship is like oil and water--they agree on very little. I enjoyed seeing the hand of God working in the lives of the people of Refuge changing hearts and attitudes. This was a refuge for Adrianna but would it become her home? You'll want this on your to-be-read list!
The Day Gina Rossi Lost Her Yet by Janet Tronstad Gina Rossi never thought about being single at thirty-one until that one day she heard what her grandmother didn’t say. She wanted to marry and have a family, and she wanted that with Marco Scaglia. And now that he’s coming back to town for Christmas...Gina would go after what she wanted. But, is Marco really who she wants?
Sometimes the best things are right in front of us, and we miss them because we are looking at something else. And sometimes it’s too late by the time we come to our senses. I really enjoyed this short story. This is part of the third Inspy Kisses books, and all of them are worth reading. This story takes place in the 1950s. http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
The Gift by Lisa Mondello Fate With a Helping Hand Novella Allison Jones barely gets by financially, but she knows how good life is. A bed to sleep in and people she cares about. When she finds an envelope on the ground with a Christmas list for a child from the shelter, she knows she needs to find the money to fulfill the little girl's wishes. She understands personally how important it is.
Derek Holden has lost his envelope of money. Why his assistant is making him do his own shopping, he hasn’t a clue. And then he sees the woman holding the envelope, his envelope. Derek is going to find his millions hasn’t bought him everything he needs during this Christmas season.
Christmas time really can be a time of joy for some and sorrow for others. You can be so busy or have so much that you take the little things for granted. This is a very short story but packed full of caring and love. This story introduces two characters from Fate With a Helping Hand. Maggie Bonelli from The Knight and Maggie’s Baby and Cara Carvalho from The Marriage Contract. http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
A Palm Tree Christmas by Lenora Worth Clara Kirkwood needed a break, an isolated break. Two weeks at a friends beach house was her answer. She planned on decorating the palm tree next to her house and relaxing. All alone. What she didn’t expect was the only other home to be occupied during the Christmas season. Nor did she expect Hank Sullivan and his adorable, rambunctious twins.
I loved this story. The characters come alive, along with the feeling of wet sand squishing through my toes. The truths of how when you get time alone with God, you can often see things much clearer. I really enjoyed this novella. http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Deadly Holiday by Margaret Daley Tory Caldwell moved to a small town after her husband's death. Just as she was getting her life together and her son was settling in, she witnessed a hit-and-run accident. Who knew witnessing this event would change her life so drastically?
Jordan Steele was working through his survivors' guilt and memories from the war. When his neighbor needed help, he jumped in to help. It was good to get his mind off of his problems for a while.
As always, Margaret Daley does a fantastic with this suspense romance. The story keeps you on your toes while figuring out who is good and who is bad. Amidst the suspense, of course...romance blooms. http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Spinster’s Christmas by Camille Elliot Miranda was always a bit different, quiet. And unloved. She is now dependent upon her cousin and not treated well.
Captain Gerard Foremont is crippled and feels like a burden to his parents. As they spend Christmas with some family friends, he is saddened to see the young girl he once knew treated unjustly.
Both have their own personal struggles, and to add to it, some mystery person is after one of them. I loved some secondary characters while despising others. http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Two by Two by Pamela Tracy Emmaline Bartlett has had a full life for her young age. Her mom died, and recently her father passed. And now her husband was gone. She had no money, no home, nobody. No, Jasper had taught her about God. She had Him. And now she has Frank Bartlett to help her. He is nothing like Jasper was, but this older brother was everything she needed.
I loved the characters in this story. They had much to overcome and a choice to how they reacted to what life threw at them. This story takes place in the 1880s. http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Mistletoe Cowboy by Lacy Williams Justin Michaels is only twenty-seven, but life has made him feel much older. A career-ending accident left him crippled physically and emotionally. That was why he only smiled and chatted with the coffee shop girl at the drive-thru and never asked her out. She was young and innocent. He wasn’t.
Valri North had a full life and a plan. She was going to be a doctor one day. Between work, school, and helping with her siblings at home...there was no time for dating. If she had time, it would be her daydream cowboy who came through to get coffee every day.
I love these stories of the Michaels family in the Inspy Kisses collections. If you get teary-eyed when reading, this is one to have the tissues handy. http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
A Refuge Christmas by Cheryl Wyatt Adrianna White is the new mayor of Refuge, Illinois. She has an agenda in mind, only she starts off on the wrong foot. Trying too hard to make up for what happened in the past and her own secret disability. And she seems to really lose her composure with the local lawman.
Officer Connor Stallings is beyond frustrated. The beautiful new mayor has him admiring her one minute and wanting to wring her neck the next. And then slowly, he sees behind her well-constructed walls.
This story is so true life, how often people feel responsible for what a loved one has done. Only Adrianna’s past may have a tremendous effect on her future in Refuge. Great story. Cheryl has several books based in this town, and of the people you will read about in this book, this is easily read as stand-alone. The others enhance it if you enjoy the series.http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
A mix of 8 contemporary and historical Christian Christmas fiction novellas, my 3 favorites were A Palm Tree Christmas by Lenora Worth, The Spinster's Christmas by Camille Elliot (aka Camy Tang), and A Refuge Christmas by Cheryl Wyatt. A Palm Tree Christmas and A Refuge Christmas both were contemporary and featured heroines who were unsure of themselves and battling pasts that had brought them pain. The heroes in both were also battling pasts that left them scarred, but they were caring, warmhearted, and had strong faiths. A delightful pair of twins added the Christmas spirit to Palm Tree Christmas, and a nosy, sweet, loveable aunt added wisdom and warmth to A Refuge Christmas. The Spinster's Christmas was a regency mystery that kept me riveted from start to finish (Camy Tang does that in all her suspense.) A swoonworthy hero who always roots for the underdog is angry when he sees Miranda who comes from wealth but has lost her parents (and wealth) and is now basically serving as an unpaid slave in her uncle's home.
Good short reads for breaks during the holiday season.
This is a Christian anthology containing eight novellas in a variety of genres: Christian historical fiction, Christian suspense, a Christian regency novella, and Christian contemporary romance.
The Day Gina Rossi Lost Her Yet by Janet Tronstad Janet Tronstad has set this novella in the 1950's, and it is both humorous and sweet. I would like to see more books set in this nostalgic time period. This one would have made a great full-length novel; as a novella it seemed like I wanted more!
The Gift by Lisa Mondello This one was enjoyable, yet very short. Lisa Mondello is a new author to me, and she did a good job of involving me in the lives of her characters. I personally was surprised to see a curse word in this "inspirational" collection, only because that seems to be creeping more and more into Christian/Inspirational fiction, and that is not me at all.
A Palm Tree Christmas by Lenora Worth A contemporary, sweet romance, this novella explores spending Christmastime on the beach, enjoying a surprising situation you weren't expecting to find yourself in. Humor, adorable children, and adjusting to changes in ones life all contribute to an interesting plot.
Deadly Holiday by Margaret Daley Can you imagine witnessing a hit and run accident but no one seems to believe you, and then people threaten you and very menacing things begin to happen. That is what the heroine of this one, Tory, goes through. The plot in this one is suspenseful and fast-moving, and the end result was that I wish it had been a full length novel because I enjoyed it so much.
Two By Two by Pamela Tracy A historical romance set in Arizona in the 1880's, this is a very satisfying read. Jasper finds almost all of his expectations are different from reality when he attempts to bury his younger brother and escort his widow home.
The Spinster's Christmas by Camille Elliot (Camy Tang) Set during the Regency period, Gerard is battling bitterness over an injury and doesn't feel he is very worthwhile anymore when he meets an old childhood friend, Miranda, who isn't being treated fairly. The reader will be drawn in quickly as someone begins threatening lives during the Christmas season. Will Gerard be able to overcome his bitterness and figure out who the person is and whether they are after him or Miranda? This is a very intense novella by one of my favorite authors. Don't miss it!
Mistletoe Cowboy by Lacy Williams This novella explores how two people from very different backgrounds and with divergent goals can sometimes discover they have more in common than they thought, and how their individual strengths can help them encourage each other to grow and mature as people. Lacy Williams has developed their personalities perfectly, and it makes for a very realistic, interesting story.
A Refuge Christmas by Cheryl Wyatt This story became dear to my heart because part of the plot has to do with helping teens grow in faith so that they are able to overcome some very real obstacles in their home lives. I have been involved in the foster care system, and this hit home with me. Adrianna and Conner do not agree at times on the approach that should be taken to many situations that come up, and it is intriguing to see how they work things out. Both of them have good reasons for their viewpoints because of prior experiences. A great contemporary romance.
This collection has eight very good novellas, and there is such a variety there is something for everyone, and all of them are worthwhile reads.
I received a copy of Mistletoe Kisses free for review, but was not required to write a positive review. These opinions are my own.
Mistletoe Kisses, ( Inspy Kisses book 3) This is the third set of the Inspy Kisses Collection. There is eight authors in a variety of genres. Each novella is a stand-alone and can be read anytime. I loved all of these eight novellas and I think the authors has did an excellent job in penning their novella.
The Day Gina Ross Lost Her Yet By: Janet Tronstad This is a new retro romance . Gina has her heart set on Marco, all her life that she wanted to marry him. Marco left town, will he come back for gina? Is he the same man that Gina has always loved ? Will someone else open her eyes and her heart?
The Gift By: Lisa Mondello The author caught my attention right away with the two main characters. Derek has just lost an important envelope and goes back to try and find it. He finds Allison with it. Allison is a young lady who loves to do things for children with the funds she has. Something is missing in the envelope , is he saying Allison took it? This is a lovely novella that brings two people together. Hope, Trust, and love.
The Palm Tree Christmas By: Lenora Worth I loved this novella and the two main characters. I felt sorry for both of them. It is Christmas time and Clara has just broke off her wedding . Hank and his twins are grieving the lost of his wife and the twins mom. Both decide on a Florida vacation for Christmas to get away from everything. Will a get away to the beach help heal broken hearts?
Deadly Holiday By: Margaret Daley If you are looking for action, suspense, and romance then this is the novella for you. Margaret Daley does not disappoint me. Tory has witness a crime, police does not believe her . Jordan is trying to help her. Does he believe her story? This novella is packed full of action and romance. This is one of those books that has you glued to your seat till the end. If you witness a crime and no one would believe you, what would you do?
The Spinster's Christmas By: Camille Elliot ( Camy Tang) This novella is set in the regency period. Miranda was a very quiet lady. She has depended on her cousin, who does not treat her well. Gerard is a cripple and does not think he would be good enough for any woman. He wants to help Miranda, but how can he ? Will these twio open their eyes and hearts?
Two By Two By: Pamela Tracy This is a historical romance in 1880's in Arizona. I have not read anything from this author before , but I liked her novella very much. Frank gets word his brother is dead. He fills it is his duty to see that his sister-in-law is taken care of. Emmy has no choice but to go with her brother-in-law. What will she do , she has nothing?
Mistletoe Cowboy By: Lacy William I really love the two main characters Valri and Justin. They are so difference and with different goals. Justin is broken up from rodeo riding and Valri is a coffee shop girl that he meets in a drive through. I love Lacy William's cowboy stories and I know you will too. Yes there is romance in Mistletoe Cowboy.
A Refuge Christmas By: Cheryl Wyatt A contemporary romance about two people who wants to do what is best for their town, Refuge. The major Adrianna White and the officer , Connor, have their difference. Can they work things out together/ This is a sweet novella.
I was given a copy of this book for my honest review, which I have given.
This is the 3rd boxed set I've read by Inspy Kisses. I love them all but holiday books are my favorite! This time there are EIGHT authors which means more wonderful stories to read! I really enjoy how there is a mix of different type of genres so you don't have to read the same type of stories but get a mixture! I usually don't enjoy Regency romances but I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I DID like the one in this set by Camille Elliot! I found out she is writing more characters in the series so I think I might check those out now! Who knew??!! I always enjoy romantic suspense and Margaret Daley knows how to deliver! She had a great suspense story weaved around the holidays that you don't want to miss! Janet Tronstad took me back to the 1950's with a fun Italian American family story that hooked me from the first paragraph! I loved how her heroine finally figured out the man she really wanted wasn't the man she started out wanting! Lisa Mondello had a sweet, fun story about a rich man and a poor girl who meet one day without knowing each other's background. I loved the lessons they taught each other! A trip to Florida was the setting for Lenora Worth's book about two lonely people who had to get away from well-meaning family who are somewhat "smothering" them. It's a gentle story in letting people take their time getting to know each other and I loved the kids that were involved! Pamela Tracy took us back in time to dusty Yuma, Arizona for a historical romance. I enjoyed that because I have family that lives there now so it was interesting to me! I liked the romance between a young widow and the brother of her dead husband who feels responsible for her but ends up fascinated by her as he gets to know her! Lacy Williams knows how to write cowboy romances and her Mistletoe Cowboy is fantastic! Her "broken" cowboy and overwhelmed college student are delightful together! Ending up with Cheryl Wyatt's Refuge Christmas are two souls who belong together. Both main characters try their best to do what is right for the town - as mayor & as a police officer - but because of personal "baggage", they are at odds most of the time. As Christians, they try to work things out & work together, especially when they are attracted to each other but stress comes to a head....what happens when they each think they know best???
I received this complimentary copy to review honestly and I have done so.
I liked several of the stories in this book. My favorites:
The Day Gina Rossi Lost Her Yet: What a fun book! I liked the boyfriend twists that were put in this book. I especially liked the ending and watching her realize the truth about her self and people we fall in love with. This is just one of those stories that makes you smile.
The Gift:
This book was included in the newly released "Mistletoe Kisses" - a set of novellas by mostly inspirational authors. Though Lisa has actually written a couple love inspired books, I know she is mainly a sensual author. That being said, I will tell any readers that this is not an Inspirational read, but there's not any sexual content in this book (though there is a hint that premarital sex will happen soon).
The book is enjoyable. The heroine in this story finds an envelope with a wish list for one of the orphan kids in town. As she is looking at the list, a man comes up and accuses her of taking the $1000 in the envelope. But she sets out to buy everything the child wants. Not much of a plot, but for a short story, you don't need much. There's a hint of attraction and the author takes off from there.
An enjoyable read.
A palm Tree Christmas:
Two kids and a single dad enter into the heroine's holiday plans. It's a sweet story about healing and learning to love again.
Deadly Holiday:
A woman witnesses a hit and run, but when she reports it nobody believes her - except for her handsome next door neighbor. Loved the romance in this one and how the neighbor was so protective. An interesting mystery that kept me guessing!
The Spinster's Christmas:
I couldn't get into this book. I tried and tried, but no go...
Two by Two: This is an historical romance that was interesting. The marriage twists were good. Her deceased husband's brother comes to help her, but she's not the wife he expected to find. Then he tries to find a place where she'd be safe. But there's only one place he can trust! Sweet story!
Mistletoe Cowboy: This was probably my favorite. The author did wonderful in putting these two together. I liked it so much that I had to go back and get the brother's story.
A refuge Christmas: I've read every other book (Love Inspired) that this author has written about the Pararescue guys, but I just could not get into this book...
Wow, there was something for everyone is this delightful pack of eight novellas! And in my case, there were eight somethings! I was happily reading each and every on! Modern to Historic tales, it was so fun to have such varying stories all in one place! Bonus for me is I just love holiday stories, and each one of these, many with a mistletoe theme, just delighted me, and ushered into my heart the holiday spirit! :)
The Day Gina Rossi Lost Her Yet by Janet Tronstad I related to Gina's tale, since I haven't found my guy yet. Cute charming story set in the 1950's.
The Gift by Lisa Mondello One of my favorites from this collection. Wish it could have been longer. Love seeing two people come together from different backgrounds. Great characters, this story packed a lot of heart into a small story. LOVE!
A Palm Tree Christmas by Lenora Worth This one broke my heart only because I know the loss of losing a Mom, and I ached with the children in this story. It was thoughtful, touching, and just perfectly done, the story was believably real. Would have loved more too. :)
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Deadly Holiday by Margaret Daley This was a great romantic with a side of suspense!
Spinster’s Christmas by Camille Elliot This took me a but to get into, lots of characters to keep straight, but when I did, I really enjoyed it, and am hoping to see more of the secondary characters. :)
Two by Two by Pamela Tracy This one went back to the 1880s. It's a trip sometimes to go back and forth with time periods, but I did enjoy the change. This one is all about dealing the best with the life we are handed. I'm glad to live in our times as a woman. Let's just say that. :)
Mistletoe Cowboy by Lacy Williams My favorite of all of these. This story just sucked me in, heart and soul. I wanted more! Lots more! Valri and Justin were just too cute.
A Refuge Christmas by Cheryl Wyatt Loved that this book was more about opposite attracting. I love stories where sparks fly, literally. :) I need to read more about this town of Refuge I have come to love.
I've actually only read one story out of this collection so that is what this review is:
The Spinster's Christmas is one of 8 stories in The Mistletoe Kisses collection. I haven't read any of the other stories yet because I am only familiar with one other author and I haven't had time. I chose The Spinster's Christmas because I had just finished another book by Camille Elliot and wanted to read something else by her.
I enjoyed The Spinster's Christmas. There was romance and suspense, two of my favorite things in a story. Miranda is a dependent relation being treated as a servant in the household. Gerard is an injured sea captain still recovering. They grew up playing together as children and Miranda has always had a crush on Gerard. When it appears that Gerard may be in danger he calls in a cousin to help "spy" out who could be behind the attacks. Who's past could bring such violence from one mystery woman?
As always I also appreciate the spiritual aspect of a story written by Camille Elliot. Both Gerard and Miranda learn to put their trust in God instead of themselves or other people.
While I'm not familiar with most of the other authors in The Mistletoe Kisses Collection I do intend to read the rest of them. And in case you are wondering, YES, there are a few kisses in The Spinster's Christmas!
I will freely admit that, on occasion, I like to just read something light and easy. Some would call it twaddle. I like easy to read, simple romances. But I do like to read clean romances. So I've enjoyed several of the inspirational romance books and have recently enjoyed a collection of holiday novellas from inspirational romance authors- Mistletoe Kisses.
There is a mix of historical fiction, modern fiction, and suspense genres.
Mistletoe Kisses is a light, easy read. I enjoy novellas because I can sit and read a whole book in one setting. The books, though "inspirational" aren't preachy at all and don't really present much in the way of a relationship with God or spiritual matters. They are clean romance reads, however, and worth reading for fun. None of the books are particularly deep or thoughtful. Some were easier to read than others. Occasionally the writing seemed rather choppy or stilted. But they were light and enjoyable.
If you're looking for an easy to read book that you can use an a fun reading escape, pick up Mistletoe Kisses now and hold on to the holiday spirit for a while longer. I give this one 3.5 stars and a G rating for content.
Mistletoe Kisses is another Inspy Kisses collection to fall in love with! Once again, a wonderful group of inspirational authors has shared their talents in a great anthology. I enjoyed each of the eight novellas and their shared theme of kisses under the mistletoe!
Janet Tronstad delighted me with her fun, retro romance. Lisa Mondello and Lenora Worth warmed my heart with their contemporary romances. Margaret Daley kept me guessing with her exciting, romantic suspense. Pamela Tracy and Camille Elliot swept me back in time with their engaging historicals. Lacy Williams stole my heart with her cowboy romance, and Cheryl Wyatt encouraged me with her story of love and forgiveness.
I loved Mistletoe Kisses and look forward to reading more Inspy Kisses collections! Don’t miss these delightful, inspirational stories!
I received a complimentary copy of this collection from the authors. All thoughts expressed are my own and no monetary compensation was received.
This was a very enjoyable collection of Christmas romances! I loved the varied time periods from the Regency era to the Old West to modern day. The plots were interesting and unique and some more developed than others. Some of the stories were more sweet and a couple were suspenseful. Most of the characters were well-developed and real. The writing was pretty well done, also. It was cute how mistletoe was incorporated into each story. The stories were clean with a few passionate kisses, but one did have a swear word. A couple of the stories didn't really have any Christian elements while others had quite a bit. This third collection is their best so far! I highly recommend it!
I received a kindle copy of this book free in exchange for an honest review.
I would recommend this book to anyone I know. I really enjoyed this book! The reason I bought this book was because I saw Cheryl Wyatt had written one of the stories. I enjoyed all the books though. All of the authors did a really good job. I loved that there was also a suspense book in there too. There are historical romances in there too. I have never really liked historical romances but I did enjoy the ones in this book. So if anyone is looking for a good Christian Christmas book I would highly recommend this book.
Just what I needed this Christmas season! I always enjoy Christmas stories, but what a pleasant surprise this was. Every single story was fun, well-written, and distinctly different from the others. Not all of them were my favorite genres, but I'd be happy to read something by any of these authors again and I've discovered a new favorite. With so many different stories in this boxed set, if you enjoy romance, Christmas, and sweet stories that keep an eye on the reason for the season, you can't go wrong
If your looking for a sweet, heartwarming Christmas romance? You get 8 for a great price in this set of 8 sweet, heartwarming Christmas stories, by 8 wonderful, inspirational (Christian) authors. And who doesn't love a good Christmas romance? Obviously I liked some over others, which is the only reason I gave 4 stars, instead of the full 5. But, they were ALL GREAT! DEFINITELY WORTH buying, and worth the price. I can see some of these as a HALLMARK channel Christmas movie :-)
If you like short but sweet, and stories with faith in God as the foundation for what gets the protagonists through the hard times, this set of novellas is for you. I thoroughly enjoyed each one, as I love Christmas stories, especially ones that not only entertain me, but make me take a look at my life and faith.
It took me two Christmases to get through all the stories. I confess I have forgotten the first four, so if I loved them, I can't remember.
Of the last three Pamela Tracy's story was my favorite, that one has stuck with me. The stories were okay, but will not stick with me long. Fun to read at Christmas, I guess.
The first time I read this book was on New Years Day 2015 .... The second time was on December 20. This collection of books is one of those you will want to read each year as it is so good. There are sweet romances, cowboy tales, historical and even romantic suspense.
Grab your copy so you will have it for your yearly OR as I do bi-yearly read. (Christmas in JULY_
A wonderful collection of Christmas stories. We travel from Englnd, Florida, Arizona and Alaska. There's a combination of both historical and contemporary romances. Each story takes the reader on an adventure. The authors used their magic to weave a story that pulls the reader in. I would recommend this collection to anyone who loves a good Christmas story or a good romance.
the stories were different covering the 19th century to modern day. Some needed a hero some need to be pursued but Christmas/Thanks giving were the common element. Being alone or surrounded by family/community makes a difference. Good buy. Good read. Some thinking n great characters.