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Stealth Operations Specialists #1
Saint Nick
He’s trained to protect. She’s fighting to save Christmas. Together, they’re running out of time.
His first assignment with Stealth Operations Specialists, Former Navy SEAL Nick St. Claire thought he’d left high-stakes missions behind—until he’s sent north to guard Mary Christmas, heir to Santa Land and the only one who can keep the holiday alive for the children of Alaska’s remote villages. With her father missing and shadowy enemies determined to silence her, Christmas itself is on the line.
Forced into a deadly game of survival, Nick and Mary race through icy wilderness, dodge ruthless attacks, and dig deep into secrets that could shatter everything. As danger closes in, so does their undeniable attraction—but trusting their hearts might be the most perilous move of all.
This book was previously published under a different title by Harlequin Enterprises and has since been modified and improved with additional content.
His first assignment with Stealth Operations Specialists, Former Navy SEAL Nick St. Claire thought he’d left high-stakes missions behind—until he’s sent north to guard Mary Christmas, heir to Santa Land and the only one who can keep the holiday alive for the children of Alaska’s remote villages. With her father missing and shadowy enemies determined to silence her, Christmas itself is on the line.
Forced into a deadly game of survival, Nick and Mary race through icy wilderness, dodge ruthless attacks, and dig deep into secrets that could shatter everything. As danger closes in, so does their undeniable attraction—but trusting their hearts might be the most perilous move of all.
This book was previously published under a different title by Harlequin Enterprises and has since been modified and improved with additional content.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2008
315 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Elle James
719 books1,203 followersAward-winning author Elle James grew up as an air force military brat. She received her work ethic from her rock-solid father, her creative streak from her artistic mother and inspiration from her writing partner and sister, Delilah Devlin. As a former member of the army reserves and a current member of the air force reserves, she's traveled across the United States and to Germany, managed a full-time job, and raised three wonderful children. She and her husband have even tried their hands at ranching exotic birds (ostriches, emus and rheas) in the Texas hill country. Ask her, and she'll tell you what it's like to go toe-to-toe with an angry three-hundred-and-fifty-pound bird and live to tell about it!
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 5, 2008
Ok I bought it just for the cover. Thought it might be decent but Nah not my style but OMGoddess the cover is really nice
December 7, 2025
What a beautiful read!! Elle James once again has knocked it out of the park and given us a Christmas story full of mystery, family, love and passion. What more could we ask for!!!
Nick is a great character. He’s a definite ba-humbug when it comes to Christmas but with his memories of his childhood how could he be anything else.
I love that his first glimpse into the power of Christmas when it’s with those who matter was with Mary and the lovely people of Christmas Towne.
I loved watching his inability to stay remote when it came to Mary. His attraction and bond with her steadfast and true. Absolutely spellbinding to watch.
Mary is such a beautiful character. I love her strength and determination to push past her fear and do whatever it takes to save her loved one.
I love how she listens to her heart. Despite being hurt in the past and the fact that Nick has things in his life that cannot be divulged recklessly, her heart recognises its other half and the trust is there. So breathtaking to watch her lay her trust out there into the universe and know it’ll be protected.
Such a beautiful read to watch these two traverse the Roxy path of mystery whilst falling in love and grasping their own HEA.
In true Elle James style this amazing book left me breathless and begging for more. Absolutely spellbinding and beautiful.
Nick is a great character. He’s a definite ba-humbug when it comes to Christmas but with his memories of his childhood how could he be anything else.
I love that his first glimpse into the power of Christmas when it’s with those who matter was with Mary and the lovely people of Christmas Towne.
I loved watching his inability to stay remote when it came to Mary. His attraction and bond with her steadfast and true. Absolutely spellbinding to watch.
Mary is such a beautiful character. I love her strength and determination to push past her fear and do whatever it takes to save her loved one.
I love how she listens to her heart. Despite being hurt in the past and the fact that Nick has things in his life that cannot be divulged recklessly, her heart recognises its other half and the trust is there. So breathtaking to watch her lay her trust out there into the universe and know it’ll be protected.
Such a beautiful read to watch these two traverse the Roxy path of mystery whilst falling in love and grasping their own HEA.
In true Elle James style this amazing book left me breathless and begging for more. Absolutely spellbinding and beautiful.
December 9, 2025
“Saint Nick" by Elle James sets the bar high for romantic suspense! As the first book in a new series, it delivers everything you could hope for—fast-paced action, gripping suspense, and a romance that keeps your heart racing.
The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, with Nick himself being the perfect blend of tough and tender. The feisty female lead adds vibrant energy, making their dynamic both thrilling and heartwarming. Their chemistry leaps off the page, pulling you into their world effortlessly.
The setting is wonderfully vivid, perfectly complementing the exciting plot. It adds an atmospheric touch that deepens the suspense and romance alike. Every twist and turn kept me eagerly turning pages, and the happy ending was the cherry on top—a satisfying conclusion that left me smiling.
Elle James has outdone herself with "Saint Nick." If you love romantic suspense with strong characters, a fast-paced plot, and a touch of holiday charm, this is a must-read. I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series!
The characters are exceptionally well-crafted, with Nick himself being the perfect blend of tough and tender. The feisty female lead adds vibrant energy, making their dynamic both thrilling and heartwarming. Their chemistry leaps off the page, pulling you into their world effortlessly.
The setting is wonderfully vivid, perfectly complementing the exciting plot. It adds an atmospheric touch that deepens the suspense and romance alike. Every twist and turn kept me eagerly turning pages, and the happy ending was the cherry on top—a satisfying conclusion that left me smiling.
Elle James has outdone herself with "Saint Nick." If you love romantic suspense with strong characters, a fast-paced plot, and a touch of holiday charm, this is a must-read. I can’t wait to dive into the next book in the series!
December 8, 2025
Festiveness and suspense make a totally captivating and consuming combination as Nick and Mary's gripping story evolves. This page-turner had me hanging on every word and eagerly reading as fast and often as I could. Thrills, danger, twists, spice, emotion and romance are skillfully honed and smartly united into a potent and perfect blend that left me breathless an eager to read more of this new series.
December 6, 2025
This is book one in Stealth Operations Specialists, a new series by acclaimed author Elle James. This story is entertaining and will immediately capture your interest. Santa is missing!! Nick St. Claire is sent to North Pole, Alaska to find Santa and meets Mary Christmas. Together they search for him but people Mary considers family have bad things happening to them. Can Nick and Mary find Santa in time? Lots of danger, suspense, and of course a happy ending!
December 9, 2025
Nick St. Claire is a Stealth Op Specialist.
Royce Dontain is Nick’s boss.
Mary Christmas is Santa’s daughter.
Nick was sent to the North Pole, Alaska to check on Santa and met his daughter , Mary on the way.
There are a few secret issues to do with Santa’s past in the military with his unit that is causing
chaos.
Can Nick, Kat and Mary solve the mystery by keeping safe and have a Happily Ever After?
This book has suspense, danger and twists and turns.
Great Job. Elle James !!!
Royce Dontain is Nick’s boss.
Mary Christmas is Santa’s daughter.
Nick was sent to the North Pole, Alaska to check on Santa and met his daughter , Mary on the way.
There are a few secret issues to do with Santa’s past in the military with his unit that is causing
chaos.
Can Nick, Kat and Mary solve the mystery by keeping safe and have a Happily Ever After?
This book has suspense, danger and twists and turns.
Great Job. Elle James !!!
December 5, 2025
This is one wild Christmas in Alaska. Secrets from the past are playing havoc at the North Pole. There's danger, suspense, military secrets and a non believer of Christmas about to meet his match. HEA.
December 6, 2025
If you’re not in Christmas Spirit yet after this you’ll definitely will be cause Santa is real and he needs help.
A Missing Santa, Christmas, secrets, murder and more all combined in this incredible story happening in beautiful and cold Alaska. Time is ticking and so does a love story.
A Missing Santa, Christmas, secrets, murder and more all combined in this incredible story happening in beautiful and cold Alaska. Time is ticking and so does a love story.
December 8, 2025
🌟 Spellbinding Christmas Romance: Elle James Delivers! 🌟
Elle James has once again knocked it out of the park, delivering a Christmas story that is nothing short of spellbinding and beautiful. This book is a rich blend of mystery, family, love, and passion—everything a reader could ask for in a holiday romance!
The hero, Nick, starts as a definitive bah-humbug, weighed down by painful childhood memories that make the holiday season a challenge. Watching his walls crumble was truly captivating. His first real glimpse into the power of Christmas, fueled by genuine connection, comes courtesy of Mary and the lovely residents of Christmas Towne. His growing attraction and bond with Mary were steadfast and true, making his inability to stay remote absolutely spellbinding to witness.
Mary is a magnificent heroine—a beautiful character defined by her strength and determination. Despite being hurt in the past and knowing Nick harbors professional secrets, she listens to her heart. It’s breathtaking to watch her lay her trust out there, recognizing her other half and pushing past her fear to save a loved one.
Following this couple as they traverse the path of mystery while simultaneously falling into a deep, passionate love was a joyful experience leading to a satisfying HEA. In true Elle James style, this amazing book left me breathless and begging for more. Absolutely highly recommended!
Elle James has once again knocked it out of the park, delivering a Christmas story that is nothing short of spellbinding and beautiful. This book is a rich blend of mystery, family, love, and passion—everything a reader could ask for in a holiday romance!
The hero, Nick, starts as a definitive bah-humbug, weighed down by painful childhood memories that make the holiday season a challenge. Watching his walls crumble was truly captivating. His first real glimpse into the power of Christmas, fueled by genuine connection, comes courtesy of Mary and the lovely residents of Christmas Towne. His growing attraction and bond with Mary were steadfast and true, making his inability to stay remote absolutely spellbinding to witness.
Mary is a magnificent heroine—a beautiful character defined by her strength and determination. Despite being hurt in the past and knowing Nick harbors professional secrets, she listens to her heart. It’s breathtaking to watch her lay her trust out there, recognizing her other half and pushing past her fear to save a loved one.
Following this couple as they traverse the path of mystery while simultaneously falling into a deep, passionate love was a joyful experience leading to a satisfying HEA. In true Elle James style, this amazing book left me breathless and begging for more. Absolutely highly recommended!
January 3, 2026
Spies, Conspiracy and Christmas!
I've read several books by this author involving an elite group of protectors with very special skills. This story centered around Christmas had an intriguing story line. Set in North Pole Alaska with a real live Santa Claus with a daughter named Mary Christmas. But even Santa has a secret pass and someone is willing to kill to ensure that the past remains hidden. Enter an elite SOS agent hired to protect the man who legally changed his name and operates a toy store, Nick St.Clair has to also protect his daughter from all kinds of danger while trying very hard not to fall for her. Intriguing, interesting plot with a play on whimsical Christmas names, but also tons of drama with some hair raising scary moments, and a side of romance, I enjoyed it. Entertaining end of holiday reading. 😊
I've read several books by this author involving an elite group of protectors with very special skills. This story centered around Christmas had an intriguing story line. Set in North Pole Alaska with a real live Santa Claus with a daughter named Mary Christmas. But even Santa has a secret pass and someone is willing to kill to ensure that the past remains hidden. Enter an elite SOS agent hired to protect the man who legally changed his name and operates a toy store, Nick St.Clair has to also protect his daughter from all kinds of danger while trying very hard not to fall for her. Intriguing, interesting plot with a play on whimsical Christmas names, but also tons of drama with some hair raising scary moments, and a side of romance, I enjoyed it. Entertaining end of holiday reading. 😊
December 10, 2025
This book is great! Nick St. Claire (Saint Nick) grew up in the foster care system and hates everything Christmas. He works for the Stealth Operation Specialists (SOS), and as his first assignment, he is sent to the North Pole, Alaska to protect Santa Claus. On the way, he meets Mary Christmas, who loves everything Christmas, and is Santa’s daughter. When they get to North Pole, they find out that Santa is missing and it is just a few days until Christmas. I received an ARC of this book for an honest review. I loved it! It starts off with action, and it keeps up throughout the book. There’s lots of mystery, suspense, action, humor and romance. This is the perfect book to read close to Christmas. I loved it and recommend it!
December 27, 2025
A thriller! And not cheesy at all.
I really like this book, the smart remarks from Nick, to Mary were enjoyable, and believable! And the stubbornness that Mary showed was also believable. Not often as true in some storage as it was in this one. I did guess it again I thought I wasn't real sure but in the end it was exactly who I thought it was. And one of the bad guys, he was really the lethal bad guy, was found in the diner. But you're not going to figure that one out unless you read the book. The end was not predictable. That was a relief. The bad guy was predictable but the end was spellbinding and hair raising! And very very close call! But you'll have to read it to find that out too.
I really like this book, the smart remarks from Nick, to Mary were enjoyable, and believable! And the stubbornness that Mary showed was also believable. Not often as true in some storage as it was in this one. I did guess it again I thought I wasn't real sure but in the end it was exactly who I thought it was. And one of the bad guys, he was really the lethal bad guy, was found in the diner. But you're not going to figure that one out unless you read the book. The end was not predictable. That was a relief. The bad guy was predictable but the end was spellbinding and hair raising! And very very close call! But you'll have to read it to find that out too.
December 10, 2025
A merry mess was undone and !ove conquers all!
Nick was slayed by Mary during g this story in all the best ways. Rules he lived by and beliefs he had since childhood were put to rest as each secret in this adventure was revealed. Mary found herself falling for Nick from the first look at him. In the meantime, people she cared about went missing, were shot and killed, were injured and kidnapped. So much happened. Read this book. You will love it! I did.
No k has a rule to not get involved with a client for a reason but he could not have planned on Mary changes his mind on invo!vement, Christmas,Santa Claus and faamily.
Nick was slayed by Mary during g this story in all the best ways. Rules he lived by and beliefs he had since childhood were put to rest as each secret in this adventure was revealed. Mary found herself falling for Nick from the first look at him. In the meantime, people she cared about went missing, were shot and killed, were injured and kidnapped. So much happened. Read this book. You will love it! I did.
No k has a rule to not get involved with a client for a reason but he could not have planned on Mary changes his mind on invo!vement, Christmas,Santa Claus and faamily.
December 10, 2025
A fantastic story. Betrayal, suspense and romance. Mary goes home to Alaska after receiving a call from her father. When she arrives, she finds that her father is missing. Nick's first assignment with Stealth Operations Specialist/SOS is to find Santa and keep him safe. He meets Mary when she needs a ride to town. They travel together to Santa Land. He doesn't know Mary is Santa's daughter at first. Now they will work together to find her father and find out who and why former military men are being killed. A must read. I read an arc of this book and this is my review.
December 15, 2025
You get sent to the North pole to check on Santa.
You get the last rental from the airport and a woman
approaches to see if she can catch a ride.
You introduce yourselves and she tells you her name is
Mary Christmas. You think it's a joke.
When you get to the North pole she tells you to let her off
at Santa's worhshop. There are police there and you to in with her seeing his you
were sent to are Santa.
This story is filled with mystery, danger and building trust.
Definitely would recommend reading.
I was given a copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
You get the last rental from the airport and a woman
approaches to see if she can catch a ride.
You introduce yourselves and she tells you her name is
Mary Christmas. You think it's a joke.
When you get to the North pole she tells you to let her off
at Santa's worhshop. There are police there and you to in with her seeing his you
were sent to are Santa.
This story is filled with mystery, danger and building trust.
Definitely would recommend reading.
I was given a copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
December 9, 2025
I love Nick. He was raised in foster care and doesn't believe in Christmas or Santa. Then he meets Mary Christmas, Santa's daughter. When Santa disappears, Nick and Mary go on the hunt for him. It seems that Mary doesn't know much about her father's background and that he was once known by another name. His disappearance seems to have something to do with Santa's time in the military. Santa keeps leaving Mary clues, but there is a very ruthless man after him so Mary vows to find him first. In the meantime, Nick is beginning to believe in Christmas and Santa. Will they be in time to save Santa? How will Christmas happen if something happens to Santa?
December 9, 2025
North Pole, Alaska, yes, that is where SOS agent Nick St Claire is sent to help someone named Santa. But the townspeople may not all be who they seem when Santa goes missing, and people start dying.
The story is full of mystery and intrigue as Nick and Santa's daughter, Mary Christmas, race against time to find Santa. This first book in the Stealth Operations Specialist series, in the Brotherhood Protectors, has some spicy moments between Nick and Mary, along with twists and turns that lead to uncovering who Santa really is and why someone wants him dead.
The story is full of mystery and intrigue as Nick and Santa's daughter, Mary Christmas, race against time to find Santa. This first book in the Stealth Operations Specialist series, in the Brotherhood Protectors, has some spicy moments between Nick and Mary, along with twists and turns that lead to uncovering who Santa really is and why someone wants him dead.
December 9, 2025
Nick St. Claire former SEAL is part of Stealth Operations Specialists or SOS.
His first mission has him in Alaska, he's guarding Mary Christmas after the disappearance of her father 'Santa'.
Danger is closing in, bullets flying and people dying. The clues take them back decades, someone is cleaning house after a military mission went wrong.
I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read more in this series.
His first mission has him in Alaska, he's guarding Mary Christmas after the disappearance of her father 'Santa'.
Danger is closing in, bullets flying and people dying. The clues take them back decades, someone is cleaning house after a military mission went wrong.
I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read more in this series.
December 9, 2025
SOS agent Nick St. Claire has been sent to Alaska after discovering a note that warned Santa Claus was in need of protection just to find out he has disappeared. His daughter Mary Christmas, determined to find her father, takes all of Nick’s training to keep her safe while trying to find Santa in this crazy Christmas Towne. A wonderful tale of discovering the true love of Christmas when Nick was never one to believe. I received an arc for Saint Nick from the author, the review is my own.
December 11, 2025
Saint Nick is book 1 in the Stealth Operations Specialists by Elle James and what a great start to this new series!
Nick St. Clair is one of the Stealth Operations Specialists and is sent to North Pole, Alaska to check on Santa. After meeting Santa’s daughter Mary Christmas, they discover Santa is missing…Santa is leaving clues for Mary…chaos, former military secrets, suspense, danger and maybe an HEA for the holidays!
I voluntarily read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Nick St. Clair is one of the Stealth Operations Specialists and is sent to North Pole, Alaska to check on Santa. After meeting Santa’s daughter Mary Christmas, they discover Santa is missing…Santa is leaving clues for Mary…chaos, former military secrets, suspense, danger and maybe an HEA for the holidays!
I voluntarily read a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2025
I received a free copy of this book, and I voluntarily chose to review it. This is a well written story with great characters. Elle James has written another hit. This is the first book in this series. I can't wait to see where this series goes. I am late getting my reviews in due to the holidays. December has flown by for me. I would encourage everyone to get this one it is worth your time. Go get it and enjoy!
September 13, 2023
I enjoyed this intriguing romance. I bought this at a local Goodwill store and I've rated it at 4.5*. This is not for the under 18 readers. This is centered around Christmas with a touch of humor with names of characters and more. It had me chuckle more than once even though it has several murders leaving many clues around. It was a fun weekend read.
December 8, 2025
North Pole Alaska and Santa Claus is missing. His daughter Mary Christmas is back home searching for him. Nick Saint Claire from SOS is also searching for Mr Claus. The town is afraid Santa won't be found for Christmas, but there are more sinister happenings going on. This is book one in a new serial. Make some cocoa, put your feet up and enjoy this Christmas suspense. #SaintNick #StealthOperationsSpecialists #ElleJames #TwistedPagePress #Bookfunnel
December 9, 2025
It’s a race against time to save Santa and Christmas. But secrets and betrayal run deep in the quaint little town in Alaska.
Nick St. Claire and Merry Christmas team up together to solve the mystery. Sparks fly and the unlikely pair may find more than Santa before Christmas!
"Thank you for writing this story.”
Nick St. Claire and Merry Christmas team up together to solve the mystery. Sparks fly and the unlikely pair may find more than Santa before Christmas!
"Thank you for writing this story.”
December 5, 2025
Nick and Mary will have you laughing from the start—not just because of their perfectly festive names, but because their destiny is tightly wrapped in Christmas… and danger. Their opposing views on the holiday add a fun, tongue-in-cheek charm to their dynamic, even as their growing attraction heats up beautifully.
Mary’s stubborn tendency to charge headfirst into danger is equal parts frustrating and endearing, especially with Nick constantly trying (and failing) to keep her safe. The chase feels endless, the stakes keep rising, and when it all finally comes together, the payoff is satisfying.
Mary’s stubborn tendency to charge headfirst into danger is equal parts frustrating and endearing, especially with Nick constantly trying (and failing) to keep her safe. The chase feels endless, the stakes keep rising, and when it all finally comes together, the payoff is satisfying.
December 7, 2025
Nick's first assignment is to go to the North Pole and find the missing Santa and to protect him. There he meets Mary Christmas whose father is the missing Santa. Nick's a bit of a humbug about Christmas given his childhood but Mary starts to bring out the spirt in him. There's danger, suspense, secrets and finding that someone who is special. Great chemistry between Nick and Mary and what a great town to grow up in.
December 16, 2025
Loved This Story!
Wow! What more could you ask for in a story, intrigue, good guy’s after bad guy’s, Santa missing, Nick St Claire and Mary Christmas at the North Pole. It’s a wonderful story, with a wonderful storyline, and how two people fell in love and got their HEA!
Wow! What more could you ask for in a story, intrigue, good guy’s after bad guy’s, Santa missing, Nick St Claire and Mary Christmas at the North Pole. It’s a wonderful story, with a wonderful storyline, and how two people fell in love and got their HEA!
December 18, 2025
A feel-good, light romance from one of my favourite authors! This was a delightful introduction to a brand-new series. Not overly heavy, just an enjoyable, cozy read that left me eager for the next book.
. A great start to a series I’m excited to continue.
. A great start to a series I’m excited to continue.
December 20, 2025
DNF at 10%. I loved the A Killer Series and had high hopes for this, but it just did not work for me. The pacing felt off, and I could not connect with the story. I kept waiting for it to grab me, but it never did.
December 27, 2025
Saint Nick (Stealth Operations Specialists Book 1)
This was an amazing story. Reading it at Christmas time was a bargain. The town of North Pole Alaska is very real and a fantastic place for the story. I couldn't stop reading. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
This was an amazing story. Reading it at Christmas time was a bargain. The town of North Pole Alaska is very real and a fantastic place for the story. I couldn't stop reading. Can't wait for the next book in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews