Sweet Christmas Kisses 5

by Beate Boeker, Liwen Y. Ho, Christine Bush

A Bundle of 9 Wholesome Holiday Romances

Fill your holiday stocking with love and 9 sweet romance novellas, from USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, and award-winning authors.

Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 brings you heartwarming contemporary romances that celebrate the joy of the season around the world, including snowy Maine and the sun-kissed skies of Florida, the mountains of Colorado, small-town Illinois and South Carolina, New York to San Francisco, and even the glittering lights of Paris and the old-world charm of Florence. The Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 bundle features all-new, standalone novellas that will make you smile and fill your heart with the Christmas spirit.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE POKER GROUP by Beate Boeker, USA Today Bestselling Author. After losing her beloved grandmother and getting dumped by her boyfriend, Sabrina is left feeling like Scrooge this Christmas. She makes a plan to survive the holidays in Florence, only to realize her grieving grandfather has a plan of his own. One that involves the crazy Mantoni family and the distractingly handsome man she’s determined to avoid. It’s beginning to look a lot like a tricky Christmas.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE CARMICHAELS by Christine Bush, USA Today Bestselling Author. Widow and retiree, Gabby, is ready for a rocking chair. At least according to her daughter. Except maybe she’s not. After getting stranded in a Maine snowstorm with a silver-haired fox, Gabby might find the courage to say “yes” to life once more, and find a Christmas love she never expected.

THE MISTLETOE BACHELOR AUCTION by Milou Koenings, USA Today bestselling author. When a supermodel with a string of bad news boyfriends “wins” a volunteer firefighter at a charity bachelor auction, Rose and Ryan might both discover they’ve found their perfect Christmas match. A fun and romantic holiday tale set in the fictional town of Green Pines, Illinois.

SWEET PEPPERMINT KISSES by Josie Riviera, USA Today Bestselling Author. Sometimes the best gifts are hiding right under your Christmas tree. His emotions were once trampled flat. Can he throw his heart over the fence toward the ultimate Christmas gift—a future filled with love? A holiday tale about the healing power of love, set in the charming fictional town of Cherish, South Carolina.

CHRISTMAS IN PARIS by Roxanne Rustand, USA Today Bestselling Author. Kindergarten teacher, Heather, thought all her dreams were coming true—until she was jilted by her fiancé three months before their Christmas wedding. Since the honeymoon to Paris is already paid for, Heather determines to go sans groom and have a great time, no matter what. Love is not part of her travel plans, but when a handsome young doctor literally runs into her on the street, the magic of Christmas in Paris may cause a change of heart.

SECOND CHANCE CHRISTMAS by Kristin Wallace, USA Today Bestselling Author. Ten years ago, Mia Reynolds and Win Barrington spent one magical Christmas together. Until lies and manipulation tore them apart, and left Mia to raise a daughter all on her own. Now, both are back in their hometown of Palm Cove, Florida just in time for the holidays. Once they uncover the truth about what happened, can Mia and Win rediscover love and celebrate a Second Chance Christmas with their daughter?

GHOSTS FROM CHRISTMAS PAST by Mary Alford, Publisher’s Weekly Bestselling Author. She was the love of his life, until a tragic accident on Christmas Eve left Charlotte Swenson in a coma. For eight years, Sheriff Dylan Parker of Bitter Creek, Colorado has held on to the hope that somehow his love will find a way back to him. And when Charlotte opens her eyes, just days before Christmas, Dylan can’t help but believe a holiday miracle may grant his every wish.

CHRISTMAS PIZZA TO THE RESCUE by Jean C. Gordon. When a freak winter storm strands them alone at the Team Macachek barracks in Central New York, champion motorcross racer, Royce Evans, and out-of-work investigative reporter turned pizza deliverer, Samantha Linder, strike a bargain that benefits them both. But when it appears Sam has broken the agreement, will the spirit of Christmas be strong enough to save their blossoming holiday love?

THE LOVE CLAUSE by Liwen. Y. Ho. He needs a fake girlfriend to advance his career. She needs a pretend date to keep her mom off her case during the holidays. The solution to both of their problems? A contractual relationship with one clause: neither of them can fall in love. A Christmas tale set in romantic San Francisco that will cause this reluctant couple to rethink the “no love” clause.

Genres: Romance, Christmas

ebook

First published September 25, 2018

About the author

I love books with touches of humor and mischief. It doesn't matter if they're romances or mysteries or biographies - as long as they make me chuckle, count me in.

Here's my official author bio:

Beate Boeker is a USA Today bestselling author with a passion for books that brim over with mischief & humor.

Several of her novels were shortlisted for the Golden Quill Contest, the National Readers' Choice Award, the 'Best Indie Books' contest, and the RONE Award.

By day, Beate is a marketing consultant with a degree in International Business Administration. Widely traveled, she speaks German, English, French, and Italian and lives in the North of Germany together with her husband and daughter.

While 'Boeker' means 'books' in a German dialect, her first name Beate can be translated as ‘Happy’ . . . and with a name that reads ‘Happy Books’, what else can she do but write novels with happy endings?

Contact Beate:
Website
http://www.happybooks.de

Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Beate-...

Twitter
@BeateBoeker

Reviews

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a set of 9 sweet romance heartwarming
Christmas novellas written by 9 separate authors
for your reading enjoyment.
Each story is different. Each story is set in various
locations: Maine, California, New York, San Francisco,
Florida, Paris & Florence. All demonstrate the magic of
the Christmas season.
The four ARC’s that I have read are:
THE MISTLETOE BACHELOR AUCTION by Milou Koenings
Hiding from her public, Rose Silver. She and her sister,
Dani go to visit friends in Green Pines, Illinois. Rose has
volunteered to read to children at the library.
Her sister decides to bid on a bachelor for Rose to date.
This is a fund raiser for a literary program called “ The
Mistletoe Bachelor Auction. The man bid on for Rose’s
date is a volunteer fireman and electrician by trade.
His name is Ryan Gordon. He was entered into the
auction by a friend and was not too keen on being in
the auction.
Rose and Ryan although from two different worlds
they seem to click but will they last for more than the
date.
Come take an open sleigh ride in the snow with the
couple. You will get swept up in the magic of the
smoothly written story with a great cast of characters.

Ghosts From Christmas Past by Mary Alford
This story takes place in Bitter Creek, Colorado.
Charlotte Swenson has been in a coma for eight years.
She was in a car accident on Christmas Eve with her
parents. Both her parents died in the accident.
Sheriff Dylan Parker who grew up with Charlotte has
faithfully visit Charlotte throughout those eight years.
Now a few days before Christmas, a miracle occurs.....
Charlotte awakens from her coma with no memory of
her past life. Dylan hopes she will eventually remember him.
Will the season of Christmas bring Charlotte’s memories
back?
This story shows the power of love and devotion. The
writing flows smoothly throughout the whole story bringing
the magic of Christmas into the reader’s heart.

Sweet Peppermint Kisses by Josie Riviera
Chiara Johnson left a Kansas City to follow her boyfriend to
Turning Point, Virginia. When the relationship went sour,
Chiara decided to enroll in a nursing program plus do volunteer
work. Now she has graduated from her nursing program and
is working as a caregiver. She has one more job to work
before she returns to the Kansas City area.
Vance Thatcher and his sister, Gertrude live on a horse ranch.
Gertrude has an accident with a horse so Chiara has been
hire to care for her until she is able to care for herself.
When Chiara arrives at the ranch called Wellington Point,
she is taken back as there are no Christmas decorations.
It seems the Thatcher family never celebrated Christmas at all.
Chiara is about to change this. Along with caring for Gertrude,
she involves her in learning to make Christmas cookies then
Chiara starts to add Christmas decorations. Both brother and
sister enjoy the spirit Chiara bring with her regarding the
season.
Vance starts to show Chiara around the neighborhood.
Chiara talks the family into using a pavilion on the ranch for
a Christmas party for the children involved at the shelter where
she volunteers. They are going to be making gingerbread
houses.
Both Vance and Chiara grow on each other. Both had been in
bad relationships so they need to overcome their past to move
into a better future. Being with each other seems to help them
grow but Chiara is due to fly home soon. What will
happen between them? Will the magic of the season bring
a happening ending between them?
Come meet Peppermint the horse who loves....peppermint
candies plus spend Christmas at the ranch.
A wonderful, well written story mixing disappointment, loss,
fear to love again with faith, determination, friendship and
love plus the magic of Christmas making an enjoyable read.

Christmas In Paris by Roxanne Rustand
Tour Paris with Holly Foster and Jack Gains. Descriptions of
Paris plus the attractions visited is deftly woven into the story
so the reader sees Paris through the eyes of the characters.
Holly Foster is a Kindergarten teacher who is using what was
supposed to be her honeymoon trip to Paris to visit on her
own. Her ex broke off their relationship after she had made
all the wedding and honeymoon plans. She decided to make
the trip on her own.
Jack Gains is a pediatric physician who attended a medical
conference with his sister. They made plans to visit Paris
together after the conference but she went home leaving
Jack to tour Paris alone.
As Holly leaves the hotel, she literally collided with Jack.
Falling flat on the sidewalk. Jack comes to her aide after
their collision.
You will hear about what they both are going through,
what they are thinking. their fears and concerns and how
they overcome them then end up touring Paris together.

The remaining books to read in this set of books are:
CHRISTMAS WITH THE POKER GROUP by Beate Boeker
CHRISTMAS WITH THE CARMICHAELS by Christine Bush
SECOND CHANCE CHRISTMAS by Kristin Wallace
CHRISTMAS PIZZA TO THE RESCUE by Jean C. Gordon
THE LOVE CLAUSE by Liwen. Y. Ho

Get ready to be swept away in some heartwarming sweet
reads that will appeal to all. I have already pre-ordered the
set to read the rest of the series.
I volunteered to read four ARC’s reviewed here. Thanks to the
Sweet Team for the opportunity. My opinion is my own.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for three of the stories featured in this wonderful collection of sweet Christmas novellas: The Mistletoe Bachelor Auction by Milou Koenings, Ghosts from Christmas Past by Mary Alford, and Christmas in Paris by Roxanne Rustand.

The Mistletoe Bachelor Auction by Milou Koenings

My review:

This was such a great story! I loved the way these two characters met. Although the lifestyles they were currently living were fairly different, Rose and Ryan had many things in common and a sweet romantic attraction that built throughout the story.

I loved watching as Rose was able to be herself and fall for Ryan, who had some things in his past that he wasn’t proud of. I wished that this novella was about a chapter longer, as it wrapped up a bit too quickly for my tastes. I was enjoying the story so much and wanted a little bit more time with these two characters!

Ghosts from Christmas Past by Mary Alford

My Review:

Oh my goodness! I loved this story so much! My heart just bonded with these two characters and I especially felt for Dylan and all that he had gone through while waiting eight long years for the love of his life to awaken.

I loved the way Charlotte slowly began recovering her memories. Her reactions to what had happened, who she was, what she had lost, and who Dylan was to her were priceless. I couldn’t help but want everything to work out for these two characters. I especially loved the wonderful epilogue!

Christmas in Paris by Roxanne Rustand

My Review:

What a delightful Christmas story! The author made me feel as if I was truly the one experiencing the amazing sights of Paris!

I really liked the two main characters. Holly and Jack were such nice people. I loved watching them tour Paris together, discover all they had in common, and begin to fall for each other. This story left me with such a happy, cozy feeling!

I received a complimentary copy of each of these three novellas. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished Ghosts from Christmas Past by Mary Alford, this is my first read by this author and I was pulled into the story line. This is a sweet romance in novella form. Charlotte has awoken from a coma she was in for eight years. Sadly the car accident that caused it took the life of her parents. Just think how you would feel after being in a coma for eight years and having amnesia. It would scare you to death, I know it would me. Her sweetheart, Dylan has waited for her this entire time visiting and reading to her trying to stimulate her brain. She doesn't remember much but Dylan hasn't given up even though others have encouraged him to move on since "she'll never wake up". A beautiful lesson, God doesn't give up on us and we shouldn't give up on ourselves or others. Beautiful, heartwarming story!

This review is for The Love Clause written by Liwen Y Ho. This was a fun, put you in a good mood novella. This is Philip and Vanessa's story. Philip is a stuffy divorce lawyer whose utmost importance is himself. He'll go to whatever means necessary to assure he makes partner in the firm including deception, after all he's been there for nine years and he's "entitled". Vanessa made a promise to her father before he passed that she would take care of her mother even dropping out of medical school to do it. They both need a date for different reasons, none romantic though. Oh yes and there is a clause to this relationship, no romantic feelings allowed. Philip with his heart of ice and Vanessa, well she definitely doesn't see Philip in a romantic way. Far from it in fact! But........ The mind and the heart don't always get the message at the same time. Could there actually be a possibility of love in this romantic comedy? I enjoyed how the author incorporated the Chinese culture into the story line.

Thank you to both authors for a copy of their book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Valri Western · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm always ready to read a Christmas book and especially when the temperatures are hot in the summer! I've been able to read 4 of these books so far and they are wonderful. Each different so it keeps your interest! That's why I like The Sweet Christmas Kisses boxed set each year! The books aren't too long but long enough to be a good story with great characters! The four I got to read are:
GHOSTS FROM CHRISTMAS PAST by Mary Alford:
This isn't any kind of ghost story, so don't worry about that! Charlotte has been in a coma for EIGHT years! I can't even imagine that! She was in a car accident in which her parents died. More amazing than that, her sweetheart, Dylan, has waited all this time for her to wake up even though just about everyone told him it would never happen. Charlotte is still in a "brain fog" so she doesn't remember a lot of things so Dylan just hopes that she will remember him again. Such a sweet holiday story filled with hope, love and a promise of the future! Loved it!
CHRISTMAS PIZZA TO THE RESCUE! by Jean C. Gordon
The title alone makes you want to read it and find out how pizza and Christmas are connected! the opening scene is sad but it is the basis for why Royce Evans, a champion motocross racer, becomes a loner and is in his headquarters at Christmas rather than with other people! Samantha Linder, a journalist, delivers pizza to him and hopes to get a story from him but they get stranded during a storm. A crisis of trust happens later and you'll just have to see how it all works out! Another fun story and fun characters!
SECOND CHANCE CHRISTMAS by Kristin Wallace
I love stories that involved a huge miscommunication in the past and it changed the whole lives of the people involved! That's what this story was about! Poor girl, Mia, and Rich guy, Win, secretly dated 10 yrs. previously but had to hide it because they lived in a small town and that just "wasn't done"!!! She becomes pregnant and tries to tell him only to discover his former girlfriend telling her that she and Win are engaged! So, Mia flees the state, never telling Win for 10 yrs. until she has to return because she's sick and broke. Well, you can guess how this one goes but it's VERY sweet and I absolutely fell in love with Win!!!! I loved the daughter, Riley, too! Another winner!
THE LOVE CLAUSE by Liwen Y. Ho
I really enjoyed this one because I love it when the male lead character is a total jerk at first!!! He was certainly that! All he wants to do is work, work, work at this law firm and he expects everyone else to do the same. His boss suddenly changes overnight and wants people to have an "outside the office life"! He doesn't agree but has to bring a fake date to the office party. He just randomly picks a girl at the office that helps him with his paperwork! She needs a fake date to a wedding so they agree to help each other but NO feelings or relationships - easy peasy!!!! Well, maybe not..... I enjoyed learning a little about the Chinese culture and the ending was hilarious! I laughed out loud!

[Melissa Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghosts from Christmas Past by Mary Alford
A sweet, heartwarming story showing how love can survive through very difficult situations. What would you do if your world suddenly changed completely? The characters have choices to make and the possibility of love might be found in their choices. I enjoyed this one very much.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is my own personal honest opinion. No review was required.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is only for The Love Clause written by Liwen Y Ho. It is a sweet contemporary romance novella about a divorce attorney named Philip and a transcriptionist in his office named Vanessa. It is a well-written and cute story that will bring a smile to your face. The dialogue between the main characters is funny and captures the essence of who they are. And the author has done a great job infusing Chinese culture into the storyline and the characters’ backstories.
Philip is a smart and arrogant attorney, driven by work and promotion. His lack of personal life is due to hurt in the past and he’s walled up his heart behind a cage of ice. Vanessa is a warm, loving, loyal, intelligent woman who’s put a hold on her dreams to help her mom. Their office relationship is quite rocky, but, as the two embark on a crazy “contract” together, they find themselves seeing each other truly for who they are and actually liking each other.

What a great rom-com! Liwen Ho writes fun, heart-warming stories and this one surely lives up to her reputation. I received a copy of the book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chance Christmas

This Palm Cove Christmas story is delightful! So romantic and heartwarming:) I loved the Heiress Games trilogy by Kristin Wallace and this addition to the series is well worth the read. The girl from the poor side of town and the boy from the rich side of town finally get their HEA! Highly recommend this feel good Christmas story!

[Julie Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Christmas Kisses 5
Sweet Peppermint Kisses by Josie Riviera
Chiara Johnson is driving to her new employment-a woman who has suffered some injuries from a horse fall.
The horse escaped from the fence area and ran out into the street and the boys in the car were injured and she stopped to help them out. She's late for her interview so the local cop escorts her to explain why she's so late..
Gertrude is the woman healing from her injuries and her brother Vance is the one in charge. He is writing an app about dating-she's gotten burned once from using one in the past. He takes a liking to her and he's allowed her to dress up the place with holiday decorations.
Love the idea of the book club-and there's only 2! Love hearing how they repurpose items around the house.
She is also physically attracted to him and he wants her to bring her younger sister to help them celebrate the holidays. The family never celebrated...the grandparents always just maintained the horse farm and house to do anything else.
Misunderstandings and jealousy and her sister is missing-she fears heading to the ice that's not frozen yet... Like hearing how they celebrate with the children, what a treasure.
Love how the book got it's name and also the recipe at the end. Surprise ending.
Note from the author is included about the book. Great short story, can't wait to try the treats!
Recieved this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
.
Ghosts From Christmas Past by Mary Alford
Was a bit leery about reading because I really don't like scary ghost stories but thought I'd give this new to me author a try.
WOW what an exc story. Starts out with blackness and she has to force herself out of it. Charlotte is now awake from the coma of 8 years when she and her parents were in an accident before Christmas.
She has no memory of anything, not even her name. Story also follows Dylan and she senses after seeing him that they do know one another.
She's not sure how much they share or have in the past but she's willing to find out. Love patience he has with her. Others have told him, the sheriff it's time to move on and divorce her as she may never come out of the coma.
Love hearing of the locale-we will be traveling to Colorado next May. Wasn't as scary a story as I had thought it would be. Love how she finds out about her past and the epilogue is priceless. Other works by the author are highlighted at the end.
Would love to read more of this author.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.
.

The Mistletoe Bachelor Auction by Milou Koenings
Have read other works by this author and was excited for the invite to read this one.
Starts out with Rose, a model and she's in hiding and among her sister and friends. She's hiding because of the media that is hounding her.
Story also follows a fireman, Ryan and his friends set him up to be in the bachelor auction and Rose is to be a date for one of them.
We learn how Rose's brother is in charge and he wants to remake her business-set her up a perfume and makeup type business that will give his main company money in the long run.
Love that he doesn't know a thing about her and she tells him she's there to meet with a medical team to help with makeup on victims of terrible accidents or those with cancer.
She is donating her time to reading to children at library during the week before Christmas. Love hearing of the events of the town, Pine Grove.
Received this review copy from the author and this is my honest opinion.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read Ghost of Christmas Past by Mary Alford. This is a review for it. Looking forward to the whole collection.
Wow, what a story. Waking up after an 8 year coma, not remembering anything, and trying to put everything together again. Very well written. Good tension. How will this end?

I have now read the full collection and loved every single story in it. Some were true belly laughing busters and some were quite poignant.

I highly recommend this collection.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chance Christmas by Kristin Wallace is an addition to the Heiress Games trilogy. I loved the poor girl / rich boy story of Win and Mia. Their HEA was so romantic....happy sigh. I also enjoyed getting to see the couples from the earlier books, plus the cute pig. Their daughter, Riley, was also a great character. Highly recommend!

[Dawn Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Peppermint Kisses -
Chiara Johnson has recently finished her nursing degree and has been offered a live in position to help a woman who is recovering from a concussion and broken ankle. She intends to accept the job and then return home to her family and accept life as a single woman. Since she loves all things Christmas, she hopes she can spread the Christmas cheer to her new employer.

Vance Thatcher feels the weight of responsibility on his shoulders every day. And, with his younger sister injured, he feels responsible for her too. When the new nurse arrives he is shocked at his interest in her. Convinced that he'd remain a bachelor, he's torn about whether or not to convince her to stay and not return to her family.

Chiara tries to remind herself that she's leaving, but she's drawn to Vance. Vance, on the other hand, struggles with communicating his desires to Chiara. Before her contract is over can he open up to her and express his desire for her to stay? Is she willing to stay?

This is a sweet story with a near instant attraction between the characters. Events happen over the course of a month
My rating - 4 stars

Christmas in Paris -
Holly Foster is determined to enjoy her honeymoon to Paris, even if it's a solo trip. After all, she's already paid for it and most of the tickets were non refundable. However, she may not have to do everything alone after all. Stepping out of her hotel, she literally collides with an incredibly handsome man who stops to make sure she's OK.

Jack Gains is in Paris for a few extra days after his medical conference ended. He was supposed to see the sights with his sister, but she had to suddenly fly home. He was considering flying home early as well, but he's just run into the most intriguing woman. And, the gentleman in him refuses to allow her to go it alone. That is if she'll let him accompany her.

I really enjoyed this story. I liked the realistic development of the romance and the many references to Paris. It's as if the author was there while writing the story.
My rating - 5 stars

Ghosts From Christmas Past -
Charlotte has just woken from 8 years in a coma and she can't remember anything or anyone. She's scared and confused, especially when everyone seems to know her, but she can't remember them. However, there's something different and special about Dylan.

Dylan has been waiting 8 years for Charlotte to wake up. But, is it too late? Has he made too many mistakes? Will she forgive him when she finally remembers everything?

This is a tender, sweet story. I cannot imagine what it must be like for either of them. But, I absolutely love Dylan. He's got the patience of a saint. Wow. Keep the tissues nearby.
My rating - 5 stars

The Mistletoe Bachelor Auction -
Rose and Ryan may seem like they are from different worlds, but they actually have a great deal in common and their attraction to each other proves it. Even though the romance was quick, I still enjoyed the story and was cheering for Ryan. What a great book boyfriend he is! And, I like how Rose is willing to listen to her sister's advice.
My rating - 5 stars

These are what I've been able to read so far.

[Nadine Keels · Rating 4 out of 5]

Philip Wong isn't a love or marriage enthusiast, what with all the cases he's handled as a stellar divorce lawyer. Vanessa Lim was once obliged to give up her dream and is now a receptionist at a law office, where she isn't too keen on a certain divorce lawyer. But desperate times lead Philip and Vanessa to strike up a short-term, Christmastime dating contract in The Love Clause by author Liwen Y. Ho.

So, no, this isn't the first time I've read a romance by this author that includes a fake date during the holidays, but as I quite enjoyed one, I figured I could enjoy another.

I was pulled right into the first chapter, feeling like no stranger to Philip and his boss. Their funny interaction is an ideal setup for the tale that follows. Self-satisfied Philip is a pretty outrageous dude with a good dose of vulnerability under his self-satisfaction. It's cool how Vanessa can both empathize with him and stand up to him when she has to. Get it, girl!

Admittedly, the development of the story got a little odd to me after a while, and I wasn't sure if one or two of its points made the most sense. Also, considering where (and how) Philip and Vanessa are at the start, the distance they cover seems to be an unnatural stretch to get them to a certain point by the end of the story. I think the idea of the plot would have worked well even without so big a leap.

Still, it's a fun holiday read that I found both amusing and touching.
_________
I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

SWEET CHRISTMAS KISSES 5 is a compilation of 9 sweet and wonderful Christmas novellas. This review is for MISTLETOE BACHELOR AUCTION by Milou Koenings.

MISTLETOE BACHELOR AUCTION is the story of Ryan and Rose. Rose, a supermodel, is in Green Pines visiting friends over the holidays. Rose is also contemplating big changes in her career and private life. Ryan, an electrician and volunteer firefighter, is also at a personal crossroads. He knows something important is missing from his life. Ryan is roped into being a bachelor for the fundraising bachelor auction. Rose’s sister bids on Ryan as a Christmas gift for Rose, and her outrageous bid wins. What follows are sweet encounters, a romantic sleigh ride and magical kisses. Is Rose brave enough to set aside her insecurities to take a chance with Ryan? He is smitten, but is she? Discover the answers to these questions when you read this sweet, delightful story.

I received an ARC of this story and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Peppermint Kisses by Josie Riviera

Great book, I love Christmas stories and this one was good. Chiara Johnson is a nurse and has found a job taking care of a young girl who had a fall off of a horse and is in a wheelchair since the accident.

She is the right person for the job and the girl's older brother agrees to hire her. He is handsome, smart, and not looking for love.

But somehow they fall in love. But Chiara wants to go back to Kansas for Christmas with her family.

What will happen with Vance and Chiara will they end up together or will Chiara go back to Kansas and forget all about Vince. That is what you will find out when you read this great book.

The story is a great Christmas and will bring you a lot of Christmas joy! Well worth the time to read. Josie Riviera is a good author.

The Mistletoe Bachelor Auction is the 5th story in this book. So far I have enjoyed the stories.

Each one is a romance with young people and older folks. This one was about Rose and Ryan. Rose and her sister are in a rural Midwestern town at Christmas and they are attending a Festival that is having a Bachelor auction to raise money for the town. Rose's sister never likes any of the guys Rose finds for herself, so she decides to bid for a contestant for Rose.

Little does she know that Rose and Ryan are falling for each other! It is a funny story and made me laugh out loud.

I would recommend it for two reasons: one because it is based at Christmas Time and the other is the author has done a great job of making it interesting! I need to get back to reading. Please try to get the box set, you will love it!

[Marjorie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read THE MISTLETOE BACHELOR AUCTION by Milou Koenings. This is a cute whirlwind of a new romance that blossoms between Rose Silver and Ryan Gordon. Rose, a supermodel, goes to Green Pines, Illinois with her sister, Dani, to see their friend, Loren Bennett just before Christmas for a literary project. Away from it all, she hides from the publicity she has always stirred up wherever she goes. Ryan Gordon, volunteer firefighter, electrician, and carpenter, has never heard of her before. They get set up for a date through a bachelor auction. Two worlds apart, the two of them end up finding out that each of them have a lot more to offer than what appears on the surface. I really enjoyed this heartwarming, holiday novella and always look forward to this set of sweet romances by multiple authors. [I received an early copy of this novella from the author and my opinion is my own.]

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secret and Love

Review of Second Chance Christmas - Kristen Wallace
Mia Reynolds is coming home after being gone for 10 years. Mia and her daughter Riley who just turned 10 have stayed away since Mia didn't want to run into Riley's father. When are ex-boyfriend rejected them she decided to be a single mother. He illness has caused her to lose her job and apartment. Her sister Chole has told her to come home and live with her. When Winthrop Barrington sees Riley's unique shade of aquamarine eyes he knows he is her father. Will all the secrets explain how they both were lied too? Can they have their second chance at Love? I well written story but if you haven't read the Heiress's Game series you wouldn't know some of the characters. Really enjoyed this book. All stories are great.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Christmas Kisses 5 Anthology
Christmas In Paris
By Roxanne Rustand
I have only read Christmas In Paris by Roxanne Rustand. A sweet heartwarming story. A young kindergarten teacher is jilled by her fiancé. Holly takes her honeymoon trip to Paris alone. I really enjoyed this sweet story. I felt like I was on a tour of Paris with Holly. I have never been to Paris before, but the author’s descriptions were really good. Holly’s not looking for love, but Christmas in Paris might just change her.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 4 out of 5]

So far I've only read The Love Clause by Liwen Ho. This is a short, funny book with a pretty far-fetched plot, but it works because of the Asian-American cultural setting. I appreciate the fact that the relationship grows by time spent together getting to know each other better, and love comes as the two come to appreciate different aspects of each other's character – rather than being all based on physical characteristics and surface attraction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is for The Love Clause by Liwen Ho. Philip Wong wants to make partner at his law firm and his boss Jack Wen wants him to have more of a life work balance and encourages him to bring a date to the company Christmas party. He asks legal secretary Vanessa Lim to be his fake date in return for being her fake date to her cousin's wedding. Things get out of hand when he proposes marriage at the party. Is there a future for this unlikely opposites attract pair? Plenty of humorous moments in this clean romance.

[Nethanja · Rating 5 out of 5]

I`ve started with Peppermint Kisses by Josie Riviera.
Chiara takes a nursing job just before going home again.
When she meets Vance he is just a workaholic.
His whole life he was disappointed by all the people around him. Now his job and sister are his whole world. Until he meets the fun loving Chiara, she makes his life bright again.
Was she only bringing some Christmas cheer in his life or will they have a future together?
Sweet fun story.
Gonna catch up with the rest of the stories later on.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second Chance Christmas by Kristin Wallace - Win and Mia were torn apart by his family - he didn't know. She is finally coming home and with his daughter - he doesn't know about. Misunderstandings and not really communicating kept them apart - but now they can have a second chance. I loved how they stood up to his family and became a family. Forgiveness is hard sometimes even after a long time apart - 10 years. A really sweet romantic read. I received this free ARC and this is my honest review.

[Bobbi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chance Christmas: Wonderful heartwarming story. Really loved Second Chance Christmas. The story revolves around how simple actions can result in love being lost and lives being ruined. A boy from the upper class side of town and a girl from the poorer side of town could have had a lifetime of happiness. But family and lies tore them apart for 10 years. The resulting clearing of the secrets and lies results in a happy ending. Just have to love a good ending to a story. Going to read the rest of the stories in this set right away. Enjoy

[The Mysterious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my fifth Sweet Christmas Kisses Collection and once more it looks like a total pleasure to come. I’ve barely started it, but based on Kristin Wallace’s contribution, Second Chance Christmas (c’mon, you’ve got wealthy family snobbery to overcome, a second chance romance and even the classic abandoned sweetheart who had a babe - all perfectly written and total fun) and my experience with the prior series, I know this anthology is pretty much guaranteed to be a winner. Christmas in September? When it’s this good, you betcha.

[Norma Wiegert · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC of Second Chance Christmas by Kristin Wallace and enjoyed it so much I purchased the box set so that I could read the rest of the stories. In Second Chance Christmas Mia and Win get a second chance at love after interfering family and lack of communication tore them apart 10 years ago. Now Mia returns home to Palm Cove Florida jobless and homeless with a 10 year old daughter. Will Mia and Win be able to overcome past misunderstandings? Another great story by Kristin Wallace.

[Mary Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghosts from Christmas Past
Mary Alford

How awful it must be to watch a loved one be in a coma for 8 years. How wonderful to have them awaken after 8 years. All the emotions of the roller coaster of feelings is hard to imagine.
Mary Alford brings a sweet romance full of miracles, emotions, and the power of love to Charlotte and Dylan in this book. They thought they had their HEA then it seemed lost. Could there be a second chance?

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chance Christmas 5*
This review is for the Kristin Wallace novella within the boxset (it is the only book in the set I have read). Win Barrington and Mia Reynolds were torn apart by malicious lies. Both feel betrayed by the other but has their love ever died? A sweet Christmas romance and a revisit with the characters from the Heiress Games trilogy.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for Second Chance Christmas by Kristen Wallace. This story goes back to some of the characters (Selena, Damon and Chloe) in the Heiress Games books. Mia and Win have been separated for 10 years after spending one Christmas together. The truth comes out and leads to a chance for romance again. This is a sweet and easy read. Just makes you happy! . I received this free ARC and this is my honest review.

[Rita Kunselman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book it was a very good Christmas Book with Romance taking place all over. Small towns, SanFranisco, New York, Paris, Florence. Some very funny but, all of them give you the Christmas Spirit! This is the fifth year of a group of top selling authors (10) that contribute a Christmas story. I’m sure that you will know some of them and it will also, give you a chance to read another best seller you may not have read before. Give yourself a GOOD Christmas Present!

[Marcia Haskell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mixed series of romance short stories

I decided not to individually review each story. From my point of view most of the stories were pedestrian and too predictable. I would have preferred that the stories be tighter and less general. If each had focused on a single action and narrow time frame with less back story I think they would have been more interesting. Or perhaps I just don’t enjoy romance short stories.

[JoAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have only read Ghosts from Christmas Past by Mary Alford and as usually the case with her books I was pulled immediately into the story line. I love a good clean and quick read occasionally and this novella was perfect. I highly recommend this collection. I am looking forward to reading the other selections. I have read the work of most of the authors so I know I will enjoy.