Mark Cantwell has a life most men can only dream of—he’s rich, respected, and ripped. There’s only one thing he wants—to regain control of his grandfather’s company. When the chance finally pops up, he jumps at it even though it means ruining Christmas for his executive assistant, Jess Stone. Jess Stone will do anything for her handsome boss. He’s everything she wants in a man so when he needs her during her family’s annual Colorado Christmas celebration, she doesn’t hesitate to adjust her plans. What should have been a simple flight and a quick meeting turns into a road trip from hell, leaving the pair stranded in a motel room together in the middle of a snowstorm. Will Mark take the first chance he can to just get on with his business, or will he realize all he wants for Christmas is Jess?
Kelly Collins is a bestselling, award-winning author of feel-good small-town romance filled with heart, heat, and happily-ever-afters. Her books are perfect for readers who crave heartwarming contemporary love stories, sassy heroines, and slow-burn romances with cinnamon roll heroes you’ll wish were real.
With humor, charm, and emotional depth, Kelly brings to life tight-knit towns, unforgettable characters, and the kind of love that feels like coming home. When she’s not plotting her next happily-ever-after, she’s sipping strong coffee and dreaming up heroes who are tough on the outside and gooey in the middle.
Come for the charm, stay for the swoon—and don’t be surprised if you fall in love with the whole town.
Bethany had had a nanny since the day she brought Ben home four years ago. She traded in au pairs like other people did cars on a short-term lease.
When I turned away, I saw the women around us looking at him like they were the warm chocolate in a fondue pot, and he was the dipping fruit.
She gave you that come-hither, I-want-to-bang-you-in-the-bathroom look. How could you not notice? She practically stirred your orange juice with her nipple.
Well, I’m close to my parents. As for my sister … how close would you want to come to a rabid dog?
I looked for a gift for your sister, but they didn’t have a muzzle or a tranquilizer gun.
Just remember that men are inferior species. Knowing that makes me feel better.
My Review:
Kelly Collin’s clever sense of humor was front and center in this delightfully amusing and engaging tale. Her characters were adorable, the storyline was sexy and sweet, and I smirked and sighed with satisfaction as I made my way through this early Christmas present. It was a fun, pleasant, and light read guaranteed to lift your mood and put a smile on your face.
Jess Stone was Mark Cantwell’s executive assistant for about 9 months, but their short time together every morning was Jess’ favorite moments with her boss. True, it seemed like Mark wasn’t into her and was a little snobbish and standoffish and too workaholic. He even wanted her to accompany him on a major business contract signing on Christmas Day or else, this most important deal in his life would go up the flames and shatter his dream of taking over his grandpa’s old company. What was Jess supposed to do, when her family was expecting her on their yearly Christmas tradition? Would she choose the man of her dreams or her family that she only got to see once a year?
This has been a short but really sweet and oh-so sexy Christmas love story. I loved Jess and her quirky, bright and sexy attitude. I don’t blame her always envious sister for constantly bringing her down because Jess was indeed far superior than her. Her boss, Mark was something else, but I found him quite adorable. I have a thing for angsty guys and antisocial bosses, and Mark’s definitely that guy in the beginning. When everything seemed to go wrong in their trip to Aspen, I couldn’t stop myself from reading.
Mark’s stay in Jess’ parents’ home was exciting and full of Hallmark moments that I loved. Their family tradition, the sneaking out of each other’s rooms, her older sister’s unfriendly behavior and the little boy named Ben made the story really worth reading until the end. Seemed like Kelly Collins had me wrapped around her finger with her book!
I have been entertained by every Kelly Collins book I have read and this book is not just entertaining - it's Christmasy sweet.
The author's fantastic characterizations draw you into a story that is written with such vivid descriptions that it is like watching a movie in your head. We all know that books are better than movies, as they can convey more emotion and intention that is not always clear in a movie.
I was originally going to classify the trip as a comedy of errors but it truly is the road trip from hell. The trip is the perfect example of several of Murphy's Laws: -Anything that can go wrong will go wrong. -Mother nature is a bitch. -Every solution breeds new problems. -If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.
The author wrapped up an excellent story with not one but TWO time jumps to give a completely satisfying ending to a great story.
I received a copy from the author and I voluntarily reviewed this book.
>I am an independant reviewer. This book is a standalone story and ends in an HEA. Jess is the administrative assistant for Mark. She also has a crush on him, which she keeps under wraps. During a work trip, Jess and Mark are stranded in a snowstorm. This forced time together causes them to realize they have reciprocal feelings towards each other.
>I liked the chemistry between both Jess and Mark. I felt that more scenes showing Jess working with Mark, showing the depth of her feelings as she sees him go about his day, would have cemented the relationship a bit more. The scenes with Jess' family were fun. Jess' dad is the ultimate alpha dad who tosses out spot on advice while threatening at the same time. Jess' sister's part in the story was confusing. She starts out as cold, selfish and mean. After one heart to heart with Jess, her sister completely changes her attitude regarding her lifestyle, parenting, marriage and relationship with Jess.
>The story had a lot of fun, quirky moments, especially the cheap t-shirts Jess and Mark wear after their luggage was stolen. This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving the story 4 stars. The story as written was fun and romantic. There were some missing scenes that would have made the story deeper and more fulfilling. I especially wanted to see Jess' nephew open Mark's picture for Christmas.
I voluntarily read this ARC and here is my honest review.
This is a wonderful holiday read, once I started reading I couldn't put it down.
Mark (the boss) and Jess his Personal Assistant both like each other without the other knowing, there is only hope in their hearts that the other person feels the same. Mark wants to get back a company that once belonged to his grandfather and he needs Jess'help, the main problem being it is Christmas and she is gong back home to visit her family.
Once she agrees to help she arranges flights but they are cancelled due to bad weather, so she organises a car for them, but this breaks down along the way, it becomes a comedy of errors. They finally make it to Jess' family home and Mark is treated like one of the family.
When it comes time for the meeting to get back the company Mark has to decide is the company more important to him than Jess.
I don't want to spoil the ending for you and encourage you to read the book you will not be disappointed
You know the saying 'If something can go wrong, it will'? It definitely applies to this story. What should have been a simple business trip turns into a series of mishaps that end up having a silver lining.
Mark and Jess are each very capable at their job--largely due to the fact they complement each other so well. Their different weaknesses and strengths allow them to be so much more together. Turns out, the same is true in their personal life. It just took them longer to figure that out.
I loved the warmth of Jess' parents and nephew(who was adorable.) I loved when Mark put Bethany in her place. It was perfect. I was thrilled to see Jess finally stand-up to Bethany and not hold anything back. Family dynamics can be so complicated and honest communication is always the best way to deal with problems.
As usual, Kelly Collins has written a fabulous story. She never disappoints. I strongly urge you to read Wrapped Around My Heart if you like heart-warming stories with a touch of humor.
Something about a cliche story, Boss and Assistant but this was no cliche, you could feel the love between them both.
Jess was all business, but with a softness that kept her grounded. Mark was also all business with without the softness
They were on the same wavelength, the right and the wrong. Jess was the calm to Mark's storm thy both had feelings, but kept them hidden, until the dram the weather had decided to unleash on them.
Jess was very resourceful and did things because she could, and not because she was told to.
They worked really well together, and soon Mark became very protective of Jess, and when they got to her family lodge he ealised how protective he was.
Jess's parents were lovely, and as protective of their girls, although her sister wasn't very pleasant.
This was a fun Christmas story, that was very sexy with the suspense element, to keep the pages turning.
I loved this book by Kelly Collins. It is a story that will make you “sigh” after you have finished reading and wishing that you hadn’t read it so fast. Jess Stone is an administrative assistant for businessman Mark Cantwell. She admires everything about Mark and has a major crush on him. Mark needs her assistance, just before the Christmas holidays, on an unexpected trip out of town. As they travel, trying to reach their destination, everything that can go wrong does….except the attraction between them….that blazes out of control. The characters are wonderful and real. The writing is smooth and it is very hard to put the book down – you want to see what is going to happen on the next page, the next chapter. This is a must read, not only for the holiday season, but anytime during the year. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to give an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
It's like a Hallmark holiday special but with the naughty bits left in. It'll make you laugh, make you cry, make you laugh while crying, and cry while laughing. Take this as fair warning: you might want to grab the tissues before you get too far into the book. It's a fairly light read but it packs one heck of an emotional punch. Mark had an austere upbringing with no time for frivolities like holiday celebrations. So when a comedy of errors lands him and Jess with her family for Christmas instead of taking them directly to the business meeting he needs to get to, he gets an experience much like the Grinch down in Whoville. The chemistry between Jess and Mark is off the charts and they are utterly adorable together. Their interactions with her family were so much fun to watch. I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.
l absolutely loved this book! It was hot and sexy. Mark, who has all the money he could want, but that is not everything. He is missing a family, love, and even Christmas. Jess is his assistant. The chemistry between them is so steamy hot. What starts out as a business trip, soon turns into so much more. It was also so funny. I was laughing out loud when I was reading it. People kept looking at me, but I didn't care, I was enjoying this book so much. Then, there was Christmas with Jess's family. Ah, that Christmas spirit. I voluntarily reviewed this advance copy, and this is another winner by Kelly Collins.
Once again, Kelly Collins present us with a great story. Mark is any woman dream, and his beautiful executive assistant, Jess, has feelings for him since she started working with him. When a Christmas reunion leaves them stranded in a motel room together, the most unexpected things happen. And when they finally arrive at Jess's parents house, Mark is greeted with a real family reunion, with his quarrels and much love. I loved all the characters, especially Jess's family. I highly recommend the reading.
I really enjoyed this story. Ms. Collins always manges to combine the right amount of heat and sweetness in her stories. I feel in love with Jess and Mark's characters. This is a great Christmas story. Mark wants to get his Grandfather's business back. For tax reasons the meeting has to take place before Christmas. He and Jess travel to the meeting to obtain it . What happens is interesting and emotional journey. I received a ARC of this story.
This was a wonderful holiday romance story with very interesting character and some hot and spicy scenes. I totally enjoyed this book and could not help but laugh at the antics that happen along the way. It put me in the Christmas spirit in the middle of October, due to the author's description and storytelling ability. I received a copy of this book and have voluntarily written an honest review. My full review can be read at www.readingfortheloveofbooks.com
I really enjoyed reading this holiday romance! It's full of drama, humor, heart and great characters. This is a sweet romance about Mark Cantwell and his administrative assistant Jess Stone stranded in a snowstorm together on a business trip. I loved the chemistry between these two and how her family acted around Mark while having a family Christmas. This is definitely a must read if you are looking for a fun, sweet, emotional Christmas story!
What a lovely holiday romance! It was entertaining to read and really got me in the spirit pretty early this year! Great characters made this quick read even better. Their longing went on for long months and I was really glad for them to find their way to happiness. Kelly Collins's writing is again very good. A feel-good romance at its best, I can only recommend.
This book was so fun loving and such a great Christmas adventure! When you’re ready to get into the Christmas mood start off with this fun short Christmas read. You have the loving parents, pushy sister, and the boss asking for way to much what do you do? Pick up this book, you’ll be happy you did!
What a great story all wrapped up in a nice little Christmas bow! Over the year I have fallen in love with Kelly Collins' writing and this little gem just adds to my collection. Wrapped Around My Heart is the perfect story to get you in the Christmas spirit, but can be read anytime of the year. You'll love the chemistry between Jess and Mark.
Sometimes in the middle of what you think is a disaster something wonderful happens. Mark and Jess have the worst luck on a Christmas business trip. However during the bad luck they find out that they both are attracted to each other. This is a great Christmas story. I was gifted this book. I voluntarily give my review. This is my honest review
Ms. Collins definitely brought her A-game with this delightful feel-good holiday contemporary romance. Abso~loved Wrapped Around My Heart...with engaging characters, a solid and defined world, heart-tugging storyline...you just can’t go wrong!
Please note that an ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary.
Wrapped Around My Heart was a sweet Christmas love story. This story definitely got me in the Christmas mood. After unfortunate events leads Jess Stone to spend Christmas with her handsome boss Mark Cantwell. This story was fun, sweet, and sexy. I really liked this book!
This was the sweetest Christmas story I have ever read. It had all the elements that will make your heart sing and have you wishing that Christmas is tomorrow. Kelly knows how to blend the right amount of heat with sweet to give us an enjoyable read that makes you want more.
Another amazing book. I was blown away with the story, I could not put it down. Wonderfully written with strong characters. I want more.....I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
A light-hearted, holiday romance takes a focused business mogul on the ride of his life! This charming romance is heart breaking in parts and hilarious in others as Mark and his assistant Jess do everything in their power to reach a meeting time-line in a ski resort. Bad weather hampers their progress and every solution that Jess comes up with takes them deeper into trouble. Taking a detour, they eventually arrive at Jess’ family home, but the situation gets completely out of control as the Spirit of Christmas intervenes. There Mark begins to get an inkling of what family is all about, and Jess has the blow out with her sister that has been building for years. On the day of the meeting, Mark has his chance to regain what was stolen from him. The roads are clear and he can get to his meeting on time. However, a choice is set before him: does he go after what he has always wanted, or will being with family over Christmas have a stronger pull on him? I love both Mark and Jess’ characters and the attraction that they fought so hard to resist. There was humour and romance and the book is really well written with a smooth flow of language. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Jessica Stone is an executive assistant for Mark Cantwell. She happens to have a "little" crush on her boss so when he asks her if she can come with him to a meeting over part of the Christmas Holidays to get back his grandfather's company she agrees.
But for Jess and Mark the weather is making their trip much more difficult. Will the constant change in plans bring the two close together or further apart?
This was a great book about making the best out of bad weather when your heart is involved.
I loved Jess and felt the pain she was going through due to her relationship with her sister, Bethany, who was super cruel to her. When Jess has an opportunity to go with Mark she won't turn it down as she has had feelings for him since she began working for him 9 months ago.
Mark and Jess had such great chemistry and a whole lot of bad luck! Yet the two tried to make the best of everything that was thrown their way and made the best of it all! I loved the way Mark defended Jess to Bethany! Such an awesome guy!!
This was such a great Christmas book that will get you into the Christmas spirit and ready to tackle anything that comes your way!
Another magical feel good Christmas story, this author has a knack for them! A series of mishaps that will leave you laughing, and throwing Jess and Mark even closer together. A perfect feel good, quick holiday (or anytime you need the magic of the season) story!
Mark never intended to mess up his assistand Jess's family Christmas but cancelled flights, a storm, an accident, and a motel with only one room/bed and he begins to realizes Jess means more to him. Finding how she feels the same way, only complicated matters, but he decides to roll with it. When her family embraces him despite messing up their plans he begins to realize he wants more than business in his life. I enjoyed this one a lot, great plot, character growth, and an amazing and deserved grand gesture.
This is my favourite Christmas read this year. Jess has had a crush on her driven, focused boss since she started work, so when he asks her to change her Christmas plans to help him she does so happily. Their trip turns in to one disaster after another, but it also gives them time alone together. Jess realises she isn’t the only one with a crush and they both decide to take the gift of time together that they have been given and make the most of it. Their derailed plans lead to her family home for Christmas and Mark gets to see what a proper family Christmas is like. When work calls Jess doesn’t think Mark will choose her, but she gets a wonderful Christmas surprise. This was, sweet, had a nice heat level, engaging characters and warm Christmas feels.