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No Match for Love #8
Match Me by Christmas
A reporter running from love. A cruise ship director longing for home. Can a Christmas miracle help them build a relationship before the ship docks for the last time?
Natalie James will do anything to land a journalist job with her favorite travel magazine—even report on Toujour’s first ever singles cruise. After a string of one-sided relationships, she longs for the escape of vacationing around the globe. Even if that means watching professional matchmakers help naïve couples fall in love.
Shawn Erickson has spent a decade wasting away as a specialty cruise director while coming to terms with the accident that cost him his military ambitions. But he’s done running. Now he has a new dream—to open his own travel agency with the bonus he’ll get from hosting Toujour. After so long spent adrift, he longs for the stability of a permanent address and family.
When Natalie crashes into Shawn in the buffet line, their spark of attraction is undeniable. But as the cruise draws to a close, their tangled emotions reveal hidden wounds. Can a Christmas miracle help them build a real relationship before the ship docks for the last time?
This is a full-length sweet/clean contemporary romantic comedy that will delight readers who love Hallmark movies. Each book in this series by USA Today bestselling author Lindzee Armstrong can be read as a stand-alone.
Read everything by USA Today bestselling author Lindzee Armstrong!
No Match for Love
1. Miss Match
2. Not Your Match
3. Mix 'N Match
4. Meet Your Match
5. Strike a Match
6. Mistletoe Match
7. Match Me if You Can
8. Match Me by Christmas
9. Never Say Match (coming December 2018!)
10. Match Me Again (coming January 2019!)
11. Matched by Design (coming March 2019!)
12. Mistakenly Matched (coming April 2019!)
Kiss Me
1. Kiss Me in the Moonlight
2. Kiss Me in the Rain
3. Kiss Me in a Blizzard (coming soon)
Chasing Tomorrow
1. Chasing Someday
2. Tomorrow's Lullaby
Natalie James will do anything to land a journalist job with her favorite travel magazine—even report on Toujour’s first ever singles cruise. After a string of one-sided relationships, she longs for the escape of vacationing around the globe. Even if that means watching professional matchmakers help naïve couples fall in love.
Shawn Erickson has spent a decade wasting away as a specialty cruise director while coming to terms with the accident that cost him his military ambitions. But he’s done running. Now he has a new dream—to open his own travel agency with the bonus he’ll get from hosting Toujour. After so long spent adrift, he longs for the stability of a permanent address and family.
When Natalie crashes into Shawn in the buffet line, their spark of attraction is undeniable. But as the cruise draws to a close, their tangled emotions reveal hidden wounds. Can a Christmas miracle help them build a real relationship before the ship docks for the last time?
This is a full-length sweet/clean contemporary romantic comedy that will delight readers who love Hallmark movies. Each book in this series by USA Today bestselling author Lindzee Armstrong can be read as a stand-alone.
Read everything by USA Today bestselling author Lindzee Armstrong!
No Match for Love
1. Miss Match
2. Not Your Match
3. Mix 'N Match
4. Meet Your Match
5. Strike a Match
6. Mistletoe Match
7. Match Me if You Can
8. Match Me by Christmas
9. Never Say Match (coming December 2018!)
10. Match Me Again (coming January 2019!)
11. Matched by Design (coming March 2019!)
12. Mistakenly Matched (coming April 2019!)
Kiss Me
1. Kiss Me in the Moonlight
2. Kiss Me in the Rain
3. Kiss Me in a Blizzard (coming soon)
Chasing Tomorrow
1. Chasing Someday
2. Tomorrow's Lullaby
165 pages, ebook
First published October 26, 2018
About the author
Lindzee Armstrong
99 books607 followersLINDZEE ARMSTRONG is the USA Today bestselling author of more than twenty-five heartfelt romances. A RONE Award winner and two-time Whitney Award finalist, she writes stories filled with complex relationships, emotional depth, and playful humor. Fueled by Diet Dr. Pepper and fictional angst, she can win any Gilmore Girls trivia contest yet rarely remembers what she ate for breakfast. Lindzee believes every relationship has a story worth telling—and she's determined to write them all.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
November 6, 2018
Yay, a No Match for Love Christmas book. I love Christmas reads and I'm glad to say that it's officially time for you all to dust off your favorite Christmas books, or grab shiny new ones and enjoy. Let them take you away into the beauty of this time of year, with all the giving, friendshiping and all the love. I've read a handful already and I'm looking forward to more.
This one is set on a cruise in a warm climate so it didn't quite feel like Christmas but there were plenty of great gems throughout that attested to the fact of the Christmas season. With the weather turning colder and snow recently appearing on the mountains, I wouldn't be opposed to having some sunny and warm (not hot) weather to enjoy.
Natalie is trying to land a job, her dream job, full of travel, fun and writing. She gets the opportunity due to her connections. Her famous football playing brother connections of course. Wyatt was a previous Toujour client and works for Brooke's(matchmaker extraordinaire for Toujour) hubby Luke who happens to own the football team. So Wyatt pulls some strings and Natalie finds herself immersed in a Toujour experience...on a Christmas cruise.
I loved her personality. She was fun and witty and just a bit skeptical of these Toujour clients finding love in just 8 short days. Nope, not possible at all! She's a skeptic throughout the book, even seeing these matches start to happen and herself starting to be a moth to a flame towards Shawn.
You guys, this book was so stinking fun! I loved Shawn and Natalie. Two great characters who have flaws, past hurts and dreams for their future that they're working towards. The chemistry between them was sizzling. How could the two greatest people on that cruise not find each other and fall for the other? Serendipitous of course! ;-)
I'm not going to say much else because I don't want to give anything away. But I will say that I've loved this series and have loved watching different characters from earlier in the series get their own story for us readers to enjoy! Lindzee Armstrong, keep 'em comin'!!!!!!
Content: Clean. Some sweet and swoony kisses but nothing further. Shawn is a perfect and amazing gentleman.
I received an ARC from the author but have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This one is set on a cruise in a warm climate so it didn't quite feel like Christmas but there were plenty of great gems throughout that attested to the fact of the Christmas season. With the weather turning colder and snow recently appearing on the mountains, I wouldn't be opposed to having some sunny and warm (not hot) weather to enjoy.
Natalie is trying to land a job, her dream job, full of travel, fun and writing. She gets the opportunity due to her connections. Her famous football playing brother connections of course. Wyatt was a previous Toujour client and works for Brooke's(matchmaker extraordinaire for Toujour) hubby Luke who happens to own the football team. So Wyatt pulls some strings and Natalie finds herself immersed in a Toujour experience...on a Christmas cruise.
I loved her personality. She was fun and witty and just a bit skeptical of these Toujour clients finding love in just 8 short days. Nope, not possible at all! She's a skeptic throughout the book, even seeing these matches start to happen and herself starting to be a moth to a flame towards Shawn.
You guys, this book was so stinking fun! I loved Shawn and Natalie. Two great characters who have flaws, past hurts and dreams for their future that they're working towards. The chemistry between them was sizzling. How could the two greatest people on that cruise not find each other and fall for the other? Serendipitous of course! ;-)
I'm not going to say much else because I don't want to give anything away. But I will say that I've loved this series and have loved watching different characters from earlier in the series get their own story for us readers to enjoy! Lindzee Armstrong, keep 'em comin'!!!!!!
Content: Clean. Some sweet and swoony kisses but nothing further. Shawn is a perfect and amazing gentleman.
I received an ARC from the author but have also purchased my own copy. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 15, 2023
A lovely read.
A nice matchmaking cruise and the main characters, Natalie is doing an article about it in the hope of being offered a job if it is accepted and Shawn is the cruise coordinator for the group and they meet at the beginning where there is an instant attraction. It's a lovely simple romance story to lose yourself in.
A nice matchmaking cruise and the main characters, Natalie is doing an article about it in the hope of being offered a job if it is accepted and Shawn is the cruise coordinator for the group and they meet at the beginning where there is an instant attraction. It's a lovely simple romance story to lose yourself in.
November 24, 2018
This is the latest in the No Match For Love series, and you can tell by the title that it takes place around Christmas. Natalie James' is about to graduate from journalism school and her dream job is to work for World Traveler magazine jetting around the globe, taking in beautiful sights and writing about them. She's on an 8 day Christmas-time cruise to get an insider's look at Toujour's first ever singles cruise. If Dana from World Traveler magazine likes the article, Natalie's dream job could become a reality.
Shawn Reynolds's dream was to be a Navy SEAL, but a car accident severely injuring his leg ended that dream. He's spent the last 10 years working on a cruise ship seeing the world, and has worked his way up to VIP Coordinator, but he's ready get put down roots and open his own travel agency, which he can do with the bonus he'll receive if Toujour's singles cruise goes well.
Natalie and Shawn's first meeting is certainly unforgettable and one that would certainly be told to future generations. They have an immediate attraction to one another but Natalie has several issues. One is she's skeptical of being able to fall for someone in only a week, and the other is she's tired of being used by guys who only want to date her to get close to her brother Wyatt, who plays for the Los Angeles Coyotes football team. Can Shawn break through Natalie's defenses and if he does will they be able to work out their differences?
This is another winner in the series. Natalie and Shawn both have insecurities to work through. It was fun to read about the games Toujour planned for their clients, and I loved reading about the places Natalie and Shawn visited when the cruise ship docked. I also enjoyed having characters from some of the other books in the series pop up.
This is a cute clean romance with just kissing because Shawn is a perfect gentleman.
Shawn Reynolds's dream was to be a Navy SEAL, but a car accident severely injuring his leg ended that dream. He's spent the last 10 years working on a cruise ship seeing the world, and has worked his way up to VIP Coordinator, but he's ready get put down roots and open his own travel agency, which he can do with the bonus he'll receive if Toujour's singles cruise goes well.
Natalie and Shawn's first meeting is certainly unforgettable and one that would certainly be told to future generations. They have an immediate attraction to one another but Natalie has several issues. One is she's skeptical of being able to fall for someone in only a week, and the other is she's tired of being used by guys who only want to date her to get close to her brother Wyatt, who plays for the Los Angeles Coyotes football team. Can Shawn break through Natalie's defenses and if he does will they be able to work out their differences?
This is another winner in the series. Natalie and Shawn both have insecurities to work through. It was fun to read about the games Toujour planned for their clients, and I loved reading about the places Natalie and Shawn visited when the cruise ship docked. I also enjoyed having characters from some of the other books in the series pop up.
This is a cute clean romance with just kissing because Shawn is a perfect gentleman.
February 10, 2019
Omg is it possible to feel much and feel it so deeply in your bones and soul?!
Because that's exactly what I feel right now!
Natalie is a reporter, and she has been given the task to write an article about a matchmaking cruise that lets singles find love in 8 days.
Natalie has been in relationships but each of them end in heartbreak because they want to get close to her famous football star brother.
Since then, she has sworn off men for a while and doesn't believe that couples will find love in 8 days.
If she completes this article, she can follow her dream to travel around the world writing articles.
But what she doesn't expect is having an encounter with someone on the cruise
Shawn is the VP coordinator of the cruise. He has been at sea for about 10 tens and is finally ready to settle down back on land and hopefully start a family.
But, he first needs to make sure this cruise is a successful so that he will get his bonus pay check that will help him get a deposit for a house.
But once he meets the lovely reporter, his thoughts and focus are jumbled up.
Natalie wants to travel, and Shawn wants to settle down, but their attraction is so strong, will it be enough for them to give it a try?
So much happens in this book, you'll love it from the first page, it's cute and sweet but also so deeply in emotions.
I even got tears at some parts, that how good this writing style is. It's amazing how much I felt for all the characters.
And you can read each story as standalones, no need to start from the beginning, but I can see that there are appearances of some couples from the previous books!
Highly recommend this clean and sweet story!
Received a copy from the author herself, for an honest review, thank you!
Because that's exactly what I feel right now!
Natalie is a reporter, and she has been given the task to write an article about a matchmaking cruise that lets singles find love in 8 days.
Natalie has been in relationships but each of them end in heartbreak because they want to get close to her famous football star brother.
Since then, she has sworn off men for a while and doesn't believe that couples will find love in 8 days.
If she completes this article, she can follow her dream to travel around the world writing articles.
But what she doesn't expect is having an encounter with someone on the cruise
Shawn is the VP coordinator of the cruise. He has been at sea for about 10 tens and is finally ready to settle down back on land and hopefully start a family.
But, he first needs to make sure this cruise is a successful so that he will get his bonus pay check that will help him get a deposit for a house.
But once he meets the lovely reporter, his thoughts and focus are jumbled up.
Natalie wants to travel, and Shawn wants to settle down, but their attraction is so strong, will it be enough for them to give it a try?
So much happens in this book, you'll love it from the first page, it's cute and sweet but also so deeply in emotions.
I even got tears at some parts, that how good this writing style is. It's amazing how much I felt for all the characters.
And you can read each story as standalones, no need to start from the beginning, but I can see that there are appearances of some couples from the previous books!
Highly recommend this clean and sweet story!
Received a copy from the author herself, for an honest review, thank you!
November 15, 2018
Super cute! Great characters and great setting.
November 21, 2018
Romance, clean; Series, but stand-alone read
Cute light romance. Some funny moments as these two meet each other and work with each other on a cruise ship. Fun, light, romantic read as they try to figure out their feelings, and how a relationship off ship might actually be possible. Fun seeing some cameos by other characters you know and love.
I received a copy in exchange for a fair an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.
Cute light romance. Some funny moments as these two meet each other and work with each other on a cruise ship. Fun, light, romantic read as they try to figure out their feelings, and how a relationship off ship might actually be possible. Fun seeing some cameos by other characters you know and love.
I received a copy in exchange for a fair an honest review. This in no way influenced my opinion.
October 29, 2018
Match Me By Christmas is another sweet romance from Lindzee Armstrong. Shawn is the cruise line's VIP coordinator for the first ever Tourjours single cruise. Natalie is almost finished earning her journalism degree when she gets an opportunity to write an article about this cruise for a national travel magazine. She wants to see the world as a reporter for this magazine. Natalie is leery of men since it seems they only date her to get close to her pro football player brother. Shawn is eleven years older . He is ready to leave ship life, settle down and start a family. What will they do about their attraction?
October 29, 2018
( I received a digital copy of the book . Thanks to Lindzee Armstrong !! )
This was a sweet book. First book in this series with such an age gap of 11 years. But the author made it work. The whole idea of the cruise was pretty amazing. Though I'm not entirely sure of the idea of falling in love in 8 days I believe in the No Match For Love title. So I guess anything is possible.
Now it makes sense how the author has connected the Sunset Plain series with the No Match for Love series. I think it was a good idea.
This was a sweet book. First book in this series with such an age gap of 11 years. But the author made it work. The whole idea of the cruise was pretty amazing. Though I'm not entirely sure of the idea of falling in love in 8 days I believe in the No Match For Love title. So I guess anything is possible.
Now it makes sense how the author has connected the Sunset Plain series with the No Match for Love series. I think it was a good idea.
October 29, 2018
This was a fun story taking place on a cruise ship. This is a sweet, clean romance.
November 2, 2018
Shawn and Natalie are so cute. Neither one of them wanted to admit they had such a connection to each other. When they finally did, it was a quick romance. I do wish I had read this one prior to Cupcakes and Cowboys/Never Say Match. I felt that I was going backwards where Jake was concerned. He was in this book but it was before he even met Cassidy. And then it clicking that Shawn is actually Cassidy’s brother. I already knew what Jase’s story was, so when he was introduced into this book it was weird to me. Other than that, I loved how there was an age difference, lost dreams, an on going injury and fears. Added so much to these characters. I can’t wait to read more Match books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2018
This book is a great addition to the series. The story takes place during Toujour's first singles cruise. You get hooked not only by the premise of the story but also the characters - both new ones and recurring characters. Love how the characters have realistic issues that they are dealing with and enjoyed the friendship between Natalie and Jase which allowed her to get a male's perspective on the situations she found herself in with Shawn.
November 21, 2018
What a fun beginning, middle, and end. The story starts with spilled food and ends with a HEA. What else does a reader need?
Both characters are well fleshed out and relateable. There's multiple hurdles for Natalie and Shawn to cross, issues to work through, and lots of sigh worthy moments to enjoy before the inevitable swoony end.
Wonderful appearances from some of the Tujour crew and of characters from other books in this series, but if you read this as a stand alone you won't feel in the dark.
Another success from Ms. Armstrong.
Both characters are well fleshed out and relateable. There's multiple hurdles for Natalie and Shawn to cross, issues to work through, and lots of sigh worthy moments to enjoy before the inevitable swoony end.
Wonderful appearances from some of the Tujour crew and of characters from other books in this series, but if you read this as a stand alone you won't feel in the dark.
Another success from Ms. Armstrong.
November 11, 2018
Cruising for love?
Natalie and Shawn are a bad match in many ways. He is ready to settle down, she wants to travel the world. He is more than a decade older than she is. Yet the attraction they feel for one another is unmistakable.
I really enjoyed this story. The mix of humor and conflict creates a delicious treat. It was funny to me that Shawn made such a big deal about the eleven year difference between them, but only because I am like Natalie and don’t see that as a big deal.
I know a lot of people criticize stories where the couple falls in love in a short period of time. Natalie approached this cruise with that same skepticism which added a nice twist. The author did a great job of making this believable.
Lindzee Armstrong’s entire No Match for Love series is so much fun! I love the way she started the series with Brooke and Luke’s story and has them as secondary characters in the following books. This means that each book can stand alone or be read as part of the series. My recommendation? Read them all.
Lindzee Armstrong’s entire No Match for Love series is so much fun! I love the way she started the series with Brooke and Luke’s story and has them as secondary characters in the following books. This means that each book can stand alone or be read as part of the series. My recommendation? Read them all.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Natalie and Shawn are a bad match in many ways. He is ready to settle down, she wants to travel the world. He is more than a decade older than she is. Yet the attraction they feel for one another is unmistakable.
I really enjoyed this story. The mix of humor and conflict creates a delicious treat. It was funny to me that Shawn made such a big deal about the eleven year difference between them, but only because I am like Natalie and don’t see that as a big deal.
I know a lot of people criticize stories where the couple falls in love in a short period of time. Natalie approached this cruise with that same skepticism which added a nice twist. The author did a great job of making this believable.
Lindzee Armstrong’s entire No Match for Love series is so much fun! I love the way she started the series with Brooke and Luke’s story and has them as secondary characters in the following books. This means that each book can stand alone or be read as part of the series. My recommendation? Read them all.
Lindzee Armstrong’s entire No Match for Love series is so much fun! I love the way she started the series with Brooke and Luke’s story and has them as secondary characters in the following books. This means that each book can stand alone or be read as part of the series. My recommendation? Read them all.
This review was originally posted on Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book for free. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
November 3, 2018
When Natalie takes a writing assignment for a magazine and goes on a cruise as an 'innocent bystander', she never expects to fall in love. However, that's not the case. But what she decides to do with this new-found love will make a big difference in the two lives.
November 1, 2018
I absolutely adore this series; the romance, the humour, and the delightful characters. This was an absolutely fabulous addition. I particularly love the tie-in with characters from earlier books in and outside this series. A great, fun read that does justice to this excellent series.
October 31, 2018
I love this book... the scenario as in old film... but so different and new...
The story is well developed with beautiful moments and surprises.
You will love it!
I received a free book and this is my honest and voluntary review.
The story is well developed with beautiful moments and surprises.
You will love it!
I received a free book and this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 1, 2018
This book is not fake and phoney. Characters are so real its like a real story. I enjoyed this book immensely. I rarely read romance but this is a jewel.
November 26, 2019
Absolutely charming story! Natalie and Shawn meet on a ship when she bumps into him with a plate full of food. Neither of them think you can fall in love in a week. They'll learn.
Sex: kisses
Language: 0 F words, 0 Lord's name in vain, 0 S words
Violence: drowning
Cliffhanger: no
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: yes!
----SUMMARY----
Natalie boards the Ocean Dream for the matchmaking cruise as a travel reporter for World Traveler Magazine. She'd sent her resume to them; the editor asked if she's Wyatt James's sister. Wyatt knows both Brooke, the owner of Toujour, and her husband, Luke, the owner of the Coyotes, his boss. Dana said if Natalie could get on this Toujour singles holiday cruise and write an article about it, she'd have her dream job after she graduates next semester.
She fills her plate at the buffet, turns and crashes into a man. Food flies and they fall. She gets up; as he does, he steps in the jello and ranch, slips, falls again. She's mortified, he's grumpy but polite. Shawn Erickson is an employee, reassures her he's OK, encourages her to eat. He leaves to change his clothes with a slight limp. Natalie gets another plate of food, sees a woman waving at her. It's her roommate, Kendra, the Toujour matchmaker that had helped Tamera and Wyatt. Celebrities doing the Toujour cruise want to stay private. Except Jase Larson, who's researching for a role. Natalie thinks a week is an awfully short time to fall in love; Kendra says it's compatibility, not time, and that 60% of her clients who end up in a long term relationship or their file in hold within 3 dates.
Shawn's bad leg hurts now. He's got to shower and meet with Brooke. Toujour picked Ocean Dream for their first cruise, and Shawn's boss Mike told him to do everything to ensure Toujour keeps choosing them. Shawn's the VIP Coordinator, responsible for specialty groups and especially important guests. With the bonus he'd get, he could put a down on an office in Sunset Plains for a travel agency and finally go home. At 33yo, he wants a house and family of his own. He goes to the presidential cabin, meets Brooke with baby Grace and Luke. She makes a few changes and tells him a 23rd celebrity, Jase, joined. Also added a reporter friend, Natalie. Shawn puts together she's Wyatt's sister.
At dinner, he thinks about when he wanted to be a SEAL, but a car accident 15ya interfered. He sees Jase, identifies pop star Skye as trouble, finds lonely person in the back, wanders over there. She's happy, must be reporter. Buffet girl!
Brooke announces a Secret Santa: leave flirtatious gifts and notes for that special someone you’re developing feelings for. Brooke makes falling in love seem not only possible, but inevitable and wonderful. Natalie knows love to be a painful train wreck. Her sweeties had all used her to get to Wyatt rather than loved her. Natalie's ready to go to bed and order room service (red eye last night after finals). But she's gotta write about the Toujour experience. She sees Shawn. They introduce themselves. He knows Wyatt's her brother. Guys are always more interested in Wyatt. She leaves to get quotes. She writes until 1am.
In the morning is speed dating. Natalie tells Shawn (who still limping), "Everyone will have five ten-minute dates. The matchmakers give them a specific list of questions to discuss if the conversation lags. Each set of questions is tailored to what that particular couple has in common." Shawn has set up some chairs for her and Jase. Jase likes the Secret Santa thing, asks her what she'd like. Warm chocolate chip cookie and tall glass of milk delivered to my room. That's what room service is for! They close at 11, I didn't get in until 1. Shawn appears, Is there anything I can do for you two? Natalie's nervous. Jase goes wandering. Shawn offers a cookie, smiling. She'll wander, too. Natalie's tummy leaps whenever she sees Shawn. At the bell for the last switch, Skye announces she doesn't want to, launches at the panicked man. Natalie had already been walking that way to intervene (being with Wyatt's given her experience with divas), grabs Skye's hands, I can't believe it's you! Can I get a photo? I'm Natalie; you know my brother Wyatt from when you sang at his halftime. Shawn offers Skye complimentary massage in her room right now. Natalie tells Brooke she'll go with them to make sure all's OK.
Shawn gets Jorge to call for the masseuse. Skye's flirting, going to cost him the bonus. Natalie joins them to get Skye's view on the Toujour cruise so far. She's upset at being cut off with Declan. Natalie: Every guy wants a chance to talk with you. Skye hits on Shawn until masseuse arrives. Shawn and Natalie talk all the way back. It's easy to talk to her. He tells her the pressure he's under so Toujour becomes repeat business. She tells him about promised job, even though she thinks it's insane to fall in love in a week. S: Maybe it’s not about the length of time, but the commitment level of the couple. “That’s what Kendra said. Have you been talking to the matchmakers?” She's going to the belly flop competition; Brooke says laughter brings couples together. He's going, too, because most Toujour guests will be there (and she will be).
She gets there after primping, looks for him. If this is chemistry, she's never felt it before. Shawn calls her over. He's saved her a prime seat. For the article, of course. Oh. Ocean Dream probably wants her article to be favorable almost as badly as Toujour does. S: Ever seen a belly flop competition? N: Yes, I grew up in AZ. S: I remember that from Wyatt's interviews. Oh. N: No, I can't swim. Jase arrives. S: See you at the dance tonight? N: Yes (butterflies). She notices his limp as he walks away, had seen scar on knee. Jase notices her staring, she tells him buffet story. Jase thinks Shawn likes her. She spots him again, he smiles wide when their eyes meet.
Shawn's been Santa to a school or orphanage at a port town for 5y now. He tells himself the chemistry is imagined. She comes to the 1920s dance as a flapper. All the guys would fall to their knees if she'd be their girl. Except Shawn. He can't kneel, and she deserves to be proposed to by a guy on bended knee. Whoa, where'd that come from? Brooke tells Shawn to dance with Natalie so she's not a wallflower. He thinks about Jase, blood boils. He's not much of a dancer because of limp. He sees her sitting by herself, joins her. N: Why is this cruise so important to you? He's been on the ship 10y. He's 11y older. He tells her of his dream, his family; she of hers, her hope to see the world and write about it. He's so attracted to her. She asks him to dance. Yes. He takes her hand.
“I’ll admit I’m a fan of Wyatt James. I don’t think you can grow up in Oklahoma without loving football. But I’m much more interested in finding out more about his little sister.” Smile. What do you want to know. Does she have a boyfriend? No. Good. Are you single? Very. They stop dancing in the middle of the dance floor. As they're about to kiss, someone bumps into Natalie, who knocks Shawn to the floor in a painful position. He won't let anyone help him up. Natalie feels slapped.
As Shawn limps out, Jase asks What's wrong? I don't know! They walk on deck. She tells him what happened. “Isn’t it obvious? You’re a beautiful woman that he’s clearly attracted to. He fell and feels like an idiot. No guy wants to look weak in front of the girl he’s trying to impress.” In her room, she gets a knock at her door, Room service. 3 chocolate chip cookies and a drink of milk. Note: To the woman who deserves better. I’m sorry. Enjoy your milk and cookies. Tomorrow is a new day. - Your Secret Santa. Jase or Shawn??
Shawn leaves the dance. His leg hurts, his pride hurts more. He sees Natalie leave with Jase. "While they’d danced together, he’d felt whole for the first time in more than a decade. And then, like a moron, he’d ruined everything, while famous Jase Larson was more than happy to comfort her."
The next morning, he wraps gifts. Knock. N: Has your pride settled down enough to allow a woman to ask how your leg’s doing? Shawn likes that she calls him on his bad behavior. “I’m mad at you.” “I know.” “You really hurt my feelings last night. I was just trying to help, and you were rude.” “I’m sorry. If I could go back in time and redo last night, I would.” She tells him what Jase said, he tells her about the accident. “I’m so sorry, Shawn. If I’d known, I never would’ve asked you to dance.” “I’m glad you didn’t know, then. Don’t worry about it. I just want to forget last night ever happened.” “I don’t want to forget all of last night.” The room fills with electricity. “Me either.” Knock. Jorge comes in. Shawn invites her to come with him.
On the boat ride to town, he tells her about ice storms, cutting off sister's doll's hair, Tanner's getting masters in meteorology. Cassidy was jilted in June, going to open cupcake shop. He helps her off the boat, asks to keep holding her hand. They bring up the rear while walking to the school, he apologizes he's slow. It's OK. You've never been to Mexico? If Wyatt hasn't played there, I've not been there. Still can't believe you're his little sister; what's he like? Natalie's body goes cold. He was a good big brother. I’d love to meet him someday. I’d love to meet your whole family. Maybe. He asks to show her around town after the school. Jorge says Natalie should hand Shawn the gifts. She declines; they've worked for this. He touches her cheek, Please? OK. Shawn goes through the front door, speaks Spanish. For over an hour, Natalie hands out presents as Shawn spends time with each child, not rushing them through their stories.
Now it's time to see the town. He holds her hand. She trusts him to order her food, then they walk to the basilica. He tells her how black ice stole his military dreams on Christmas Eve. Back in town, she stops at a tourist trap, wants a souvenir of every place. He sneakily buys an ornament for her. On board, he walks her to her room. Kisses. I want to take you on a real date tomorrow. What do you call today? "A very happy, but unplanned, outing. My mama raised a gentleman, though, and I want to do this proper.” They're going to the ice show after dinner.
Natalie goes into her room, confused. Shawn had seemed interested in her. Had been a perfect gentleman all day. But he’d also mentioned Wyatt. A love of football. A desire to meet her family. Maybe he was only interested in playoff tickets. Knock, there's a package. It's a seashell Santa ornament. "To the woman who deserves a house filled will memories of her travels. I hope you’ll always remember Arenas Blancas with particular fondness. I know I will. - Your Secret Santa"
He thinks of her all day. When he picks her up, she's beautiful. She thanks him for the ornament and the cookies. They have a delightful time, snuggling for warmth. After, they go to the chocolate buffet. She loves to bake; he loves learning more about her. "Wyatt’s nutritionist hates it when I come around.” “I guess I never thought about that. Does he have a nutritionist year-round, or just during the season?” “Year round.” Was it his imagination, or did Natalie’s voice suddenly sound cool? He walks her to her cabin. Kisses.
The next morning, he joins Natalie the minute she walks into the ice rink. Probably not a good idea to skate with your leg, huh? "I would love to skate around the rink with you. Sometimes the accident shows up and hits me in the face when I’m least expecting it.” “Hey. It’s not a big deal. Some men can’t watch chick flicks without cringing. You can’t skate. All things considered, I think you’re doing just fine.” He kisses her palm. “You always know just what to say to make me feel better.” Then Jace skates over: Come skate with me, Nat. Shawn battles jealousy, sees she's conflicted wanting to skate and feeling guilty about leaving him. He tells her to go.
Later, Natalie sits poolside, writing. Jase, wet, asks how it's going. She's having a hard time writing about the unbelievably fast relationships. What's it like in Hollywood? “It’s hard to date when everyone you meet seems to want something from you. I never know if someone is interested in me, my money, or my connections.” “Exactly! I mean, I understand. The last few guys I’ve dated have all only been interested in Wyatt’s career.” Shawn comes over. She's not swimming. Jase leaves. She invites him to go to the Mayan temple on the cruise's private island with her.
She takes a selfie of them on the bus. He'll reserve a cabana for them tomorrow on the beach. At the temple, Want to go inside? Yes but if you can't…. He kisses her, Let's go. Her excitement when they reached the top would be worth a night spent icing his knee. Others pass them; Natalie doesn't complain, just talks. Halfway up, Shawn’s leg begins to ache and burn, but the excitement on Natalie’s face keeps him climbing. She sees a bench, Let's sit, I'm tired. Liar. There’s nothing wrong with admitting you need a minute. “Thank you. Sometimes I forget that. I don’t like appearing weak.” “No one would ever accuse you of that, Shawn Erickson.” I could spend the rest of my life with this woman.
Natalie starts rethinking being a travel writer. Kisses. He starts to say I love you, she cuts him off in fear. Let's just enjoy the last 2 days.
The next day under the cabana, Shawn: I’m going to miss you. “Don’t start saying goodbye. I’ll start blubbering like an idiot.” “I don’t want to say goodbye. I’m falling in love with you, Natalie.” “We barely know each other.” “I might not know what your favorite color is, or what you eat for breakfast each day, or whether you make your bed every morning. But I know who you are, Natalie. I know the kind of woman you are.” “I’m scared.” “I can’t lose you. I know we can make this work. I want to read your articles, and see where you go to school, and go to football games together, and meet your entire family—” The words are a slap in the face. It always comes back to Wyatt. “No. I’m done. We’re done.” She runs away, tries to catch the boat, slips and falls into the ocean. As she drowns, she regrets pushing Shawn away. Life is so fragile and short. She wants to spend hers with Shawn. She loves him.
Shawn's the only one who saw her go in. He runs, ignoring his screaming leg. He dives in, pulls her to the beach. She's not breathing. He starts compressions, focusing on her instead of sobbing. He’d done this to her. She never would’ve run away if he hadn’t pushed too hard, too soon. Finally she coughs. He lets out a sob. Guilt comes again. Natalie deserves to travel the globe and not be tied down by a man who couldn’t even run across the sand to her rescue. Natalie deserves better than him.
In the infirmary, he whispers I'm sorry. She wakes, thanks him for saving her. Tries to tell him she loves him, but he won't let her. “Go travel the world. Have your adventures. Be happy.”
Next day, Jase walks off the ship with her. She tells him what happened. “One minute he’s begging me to make things work, and the next he’s telling me we’re better off apart.” “Maybe watching you almost drown freaked him out or something. He had to be scared you would die.” “So he was scared of losing me and decided to, what, break up with me instead? That makes no sense.”
Wyatt picks her up. Tamera is on set, folks arrive tomorrow. Wyatt asks what's wrong, she cries and tells him. Want me to beat him up?
She unpacks, finds the ornament. She cries, remembering that day, the happiness in Shawn's face. She realizes the man who organized a Christmas drive for underprivileged kids would never date her for her family connections. He’d never even consider it. He’d chased after her. Didn’t she owe him the same courtesy? She edits her article.
Shawn's shop sold. He doesn't even care. Natalie's gone. He meets with Brooke for wrap up, has to use a cane because his knee is so swollen. Brooke is thrilled with the cruise and is already planning Valentine's Day. Brooke gets the story out of him. “Natalie might think she doesn’t care that I’d slow her down, but she’d end up resenting me in the end. I can’t do that to her.” “When will you men realize that you don’t get to decide what’s best for a woman?” “I never thought about it like that. Am I really taking away her choices?” “Do something that proves to her you were an idiot, but now are ready to take things to the next level.”
He quits. Mike won't give him the bonus. Shawn is OK with it because he's not willing to risk their future for any dollar amount.
Christmas Eve. She doesn't even have his number. She submitted the article last night, having rewritten it to be about how skeptical she’d been of the probability of falling in love in only eight days, only to end the trip having fallen in love with Shawn. They offered her a job, great package; she turned them down. “I saw the email, and I felt … nothing. No joy. No excitement. Just this sick pit in my stomach. Adventures don’t mean much if you can’t share them with the people you love.”
Natalie's deciding what to bake next when the doorbell rings. Tamera calls Natalie to the door. It's Shawn. “I thought you deserved someone better than me. Someone stronger. Younger. Someone who isn’t injured.” “I don’t want someone stronger and younger and uninjured. I want you. I love you.” Kisses. He gives her a gift. A domain name? Read the back. "To the woman who will always be my home. Travel agents can work from anywhere. I will gladly follow you around the world. I love you. - Your Secret Santa" “It’s you I need, Natalie. Not a place. A person.” She kisses him, almost knocks him over. Does the cane bother you? Only that you're in pain. “I’m not in pain when I’m with you. And I promise, I won’t slow you down on your travels. If something is too hard for us to do together, I’ll wait while you go on the adventure alone.” “I turned down the job. I realized the only adventures I want are the ones we go on together.”
Over the next 2 months, Shawn moves to Arizona. Wyatt recommends a physical therapist who's doing wonders. Shawn sets up his travel agency, Toujour endorses him, business is booming plus he's the official agency for all Toujour related vacations and trips. Natalie's article goes viral, job offers pour in, she decides she'll blog instead. Wyatt, Tamera, and Brooke will publicize it.
Valentine's Day. On the cruise's island, Shawn hurries her to "their" cabana, which has been set up with Christmas lights, silver domes over food, warm chocolate chip cookies and cold milk. Brooke had insisted Shawn train Jorge for Toujour cruises, Mike had relented, and some employees owed him favors. It's all the foods from when they first met.
He gives her a gift. She thinks it's an ornament, but it's a velvet box. He's on one knee with his bad leg extended. “I know we haven’t been dating very long. Some people would say that even considering marriage after only knowing each other for two months is insane.” “Those same people would probably say falling in love in eight days is impossible.” “Then they’re idiots. I love you, Natalie, with my entire soul. And I don’t want to wait another day to start our lives together. I can’t promise that things will always be easy. But I can promise to always work through things together.” “I love you so much. Yes. Yes!” He grinned. “I haven’t asked the question yet.”
Sex: kisses
Language: 0 F words, 0 Lord's name in vain, 0 S words
Violence: drowning
Cliffhanger: no
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: yes!
----SUMMARY----
Natalie boards the Ocean Dream for the matchmaking cruise as a travel reporter for World Traveler Magazine. She'd sent her resume to them; the editor asked if she's Wyatt James's sister. Wyatt knows both Brooke, the owner of Toujour, and her husband, Luke, the owner of the Coyotes, his boss. Dana said if Natalie could get on this Toujour singles holiday cruise and write an article about it, she'd have her dream job after she graduates next semester.
She fills her plate at the buffet, turns and crashes into a man. Food flies and they fall. She gets up; as he does, he steps in the jello and ranch, slips, falls again. She's mortified, he's grumpy but polite. Shawn Erickson is an employee, reassures her he's OK, encourages her to eat. He leaves to change his clothes with a slight limp. Natalie gets another plate of food, sees a woman waving at her. It's her roommate, Kendra, the Toujour matchmaker that had helped Tamera and Wyatt. Celebrities doing the Toujour cruise want to stay private. Except Jase Larson, who's researching for a role. Natalie thinks a week is an awfully short time to fall in love; Kendra says it's compatibility, not time, and that 60% of her clients who end up in a long term relationship or their file in hold within 3 dates.
Shawn's bad leg hurts now. He's got to shower and meet with Brooke. Toujour picked Ocean Dream for their first cruise, and Shawn's boss Mike told him to do everything to ensure Toujour keeps choosing them. Shawn's the VIP Coordinator, responsible for specialty groups and especially important guests. With the bonus he'd get, he could put a down on an office in Sunset Plains for a travel agency and finally go home. At 33yo, he wants a house and family of his own. He goes to the presidential cabin, meets Brooke with baby Grace and Luke. She makes a few changes and tells him a 23rd celebrity, Jase, joined. Also added a reporter friend, Natalie. Shawn puts together she's Wyatt's sister.
At dinner, he thinks about when he wanted to be a SEAL, but a car accident 15ya interfered. He sees Jase, identifies pop star Skye as trouble, finds lonely person in the back, wanders over there. She's happy, must be reporter. Buffet girl!
Brooke announces a Secret Santa: leave flirtatious gifts and notes for that special someone you’re developing feelings for. Brooke makes falling in love seem not only possible, but inevitable and wonderful. Natalie knows love to be a painful train wreck. Her sweeties had all used her to get to Wyatt rather than loved her. Natalie's ready to go to bed and order room service (red eye last night after finals). But she's gotta write about the Toujour experience. She sees Shawn. They introduce themselves. He knows Wyatt's her brother. Guys are always more interested in Wyatt. She leaves to get quotes. She writes until 1am.
In the morning is speed dating. Natalie tells Shawn (who still limping), "Everyone will have five ten-minute dates. The matchmakers give them a specific list of questions to discuss if the conversation lags. Each set of questions is tailored to what that particular couple has in common." Shawn has set up some chairs for her and Jase. Jase likes the Secret Santa thing, asks her what she'd like. Warm chocolate chip cookie and tall glass of milk delivered to my room. That's what room service is for! They close at 11, I didn't get in until 1. Shawn appears, Is there anything I can do for you two? Natalie's nervous. Jase goes wandering. Shawn offers a cookie, smiling. She'll wander, too. Natalie's tummy leaps whenever she sees Shawn. At the bell for the last switch, Skye announces she doesn't want to, launches at the panicked man. Natalie had already been walking that way to intervene (being with Wyatt's given her experience with divas), grabs Skye's hands, I can't believe it's you! Can I get a photo? I'm Natalie; you know my brother Wyatt from when you sang at his halftime. Shawn offers Skye complimentary massage in her room right now. Natalie tells Brooke she'll go with them to make sure all's OK.
Shawn gets Jorge to call for the masseuse. Skye's flirting, going to cost him the bonus. Natalie joins them to get Skye's view on the Toujour cruise so far. She's upset at being cut off with Declan. Natalie: Every guy wants a chance to talk with you. Skye hits on Shawn until masseuse arrives. Shawn and Natalie talk all the way back. It's easy to talk to her. He tells her the pressure he's under so Toujour becomes repeat business. She tells him about promised job, even though she thinks it's insane to fall in love in a week. S: Maybe it’s not about the length of time, but the commitment level of the couple. “That’s what Kendra said. Have you been talking to the matchmakers?” She's going to the belly flop competition; Brooke says laughter brings couples together. He's going, too, because most Toujour guests will be there (and she will be).
She gets there after primping, looks for him. If this is chemistry, she's never felt it before. Shawn calls her over. He's saved her a prime seat. For the article, of course. Oh. Ocean Dream probably wants her article to be favorable almost as badly as Toujour does. S: Ever seen a belly flop competition? N: Yes, I grew up in AZ. S: I remember that from Wyatt's interviews. Oh. N: No, I can't swim. Jase arrives. S: See you at the dance tonight? N: Yes (butterflies). She notices his limp as he walks away, had seen scar on knee. Jase notices her staring, she tells him buffet story. Jase thinks Shawn likes her. She spots him again, he smiles wide when their eyes meet.
Shawn's been Santa to a school or orphanage at a port town for 5y now. He tells himself the chemistry is imagined. She comes to the 1920s dance as a flapper. All the guys would fall to their knees if she'd be their girl. Except Shawn. He can't kneel, and she deserves to be proposed to by a guy on bended knee. Whoa, where'd that come from? Brooke tells Shawn to dance with Natalie so she's not a wallflower. He thinks about Jase, blood boils. He's not much of a dancer because of limp. He sees her sitting by herself, joins her. N: Why is this cruise so important to you? He's been on the ship 10y. He's 11y older. He tells her of his dream, his family; she of hers, her hope to see the world and write about it. He's so attracted to her. She asks him to dance. Yes. He takes her hand.
“I’ll admit I’m a fan of Wyatt James. I don’t think you can grow up in Oklahoma without loving football. But I’m much more interested in finding out more about his little sister.” Smile. What do you want to know. Does she have a boyfriend? No. Good. Are you single? Very. They stop dancing in the middle of the dance floor. As they're about to kiss, someone bumps into Natalie, who knocks Shawn to the floor in a painful position. He won't let anyone help him up. Natalie feels slapped.
As Shawn limps out, Jase asks What's wrong? I don't know! They walk on deck. She tells him what happened. “Isn’t it obvious? You’re a beautiful woman that he’s clearly attracted to. He fell and feels like an idiot. No guy wants to look weak in front of the girl he’s trying to impress.” In her room, she gets a knock at her door, Room service. 3 chocolate chip cookies and a drink of milk. Note: To the woman who deserves better. I’m sorry. Enjoy your milk and cookies. Tomorrow is a new day. - Your Secret Santa. Jase or Shawn??
Shawn leaves the dance. His leg hurts, his pride hurts more. He sees Natalie leave with Jase. "While they’d danced together, he’d felt whole for the first time in more than a decade. And then, like a moron, he’d ruined everything, while famous Jase Larson was more than happy to comfort her."
The next morning, he wraps gifts. Knock. N: Has your pride settled down enough to allow a woman to ask how your leg’s doing? Shawn likes that she calls him on his bad behavior. “I’m mad at you.” “I know.” “You really hurt my feelings last night. I was just trying to help, and you were rude.” “I’m sorry. If I could go back in time and redo last night, I would.” She tells him what Jase said, he tells her about the accident. “I’m so sorry, Shawn. If I’d known, I never would’ve asked you to dance.” “I’m glad you didn’t know, then. Don’t worry about it. I just want to forget last night ever happened.” “I don’t want to forget all of last night.” The room fills with electricity. “Me either.” Knock. Jorge comes in. Shawn invites her to come with him.
On the boat ride to town, he tells her about ice storms, cutting off sister's doll's hair, Tanner's getting masters in meteorology. Cassidy was jilted in June, going to open cupcake shop. He helps her off the boat, asks to keep holding her hand. They bring up the rear while walking to the school, he apologizes he's slow. It's OK. You've never been to Mexico? If Wyatt hasn't played there, I've not been there. Still can't believe you're his little sister; what's he like? Natalie's body goes cold. He was a good big brother. I’d love to meet him someday. I’d love to meet your whole family. Maybe. He asks to show her around town after the school. Jorge says Natalie should hand Shawn the gifts. She declines; they've worked for this. He touches her cheek, Please? OK. Shawn goes through the front door, speaks Spanish. For over an hour, Natalie hands out presents as Shawn spends time with each child, not rushing them through their stories.
Now it's time to see the town. He holds her hand. She trusts him to order her food, then they walk to the basilica. He tells her how black ice stole his military dreams on Christmas Eve. Back in town, she stops at a tourist trap, wants a souvenir of every place. He sneakily buys an ornament for her. On board, he walks her to her room. Kisses. I want to take you on a real date tomorrow. What do you call today? "A very happy, but unplanned, outing. My mama raised a gentleman, though, and I want to do this proper.” They're going to the ice show after dinner.
Natalie goes into her room, confused. Shawn had seemed interested in her. Had been a perfect gentleman all day. But he’d also mentioned Wyatt. A love of football. A desire to meet her family. Maybe he was only interested in playoff tickets. Knock, there's a package. It's a seashell Santa ornament. "To the woman who deserves a house filled will memories of her travels. I hope you’ll always remember Arenas Blancas with particular fondness. I know I will. - Your Secret Santa"
He thinks of her all day. When he picks her up, she's beautiful. She thanks him for the ornament and the cookies. They have a delightful time, snuggling for warmth. After, they go to the chocolate buffet. She loves to bake; he loves learning more about her. "Wyatt’s nutritionist hates it when I come around.” “I guess I never thought about that. Does he have a nutritionist year-round, or just during the season?” “Year round.” Was it his imagination, or did Natalie’s voice suddenly sound cool? He walks her to her cabin. Kisses.
The next morning, he joins Natalie the minute she walks into the ice rink. Probably not a good idea to skate with your leg, huh? "I would love to skate around the rink with you. Sometimes the accident shows up and hits me in the face when I’m least expecting it.” “Hey. It’s not a big deal. Some men can’t watch chick flicks without cringing. You can’t skate. All things considered, I think you’re doing just fine.” He kisses her palm. “You always know just what to say to make me feel better.” Then Jace skates over: Come skate with me, Nat. Shawn battles jealousy, sees she's conflicted wanting to skate and feeling guilty about leaving him. He tells her to go.
Later, Natalie sits poolside, writing. Jase, wet, asks how it's going. She's having a hard time writing about the unbelievably fast relationships. What's it like in Hollywood? “It’s hard to date when everyone you meet seems to want something from you. I never know if someone is interested in me, my money, or my connections.” “Exactly! I mean, I understand. The last few guys I’ve dated have all only been interested in Wyatt’s career.” Shawn comes over. She's not swimming. Jase leaves. She invites him to go to the Mayan temple on the cruise's private island with her.
She takes a selfie of them on the bus. He'll reserve a cabana for them tomorrow on the beach. At the temple, Want to go inside? Yes but if you can't…. He kisses her, Let's go. Her excitement when they reached the top would be worth a night spent icing his knee. Others pass them; Natalie doesn't complain, just talks. Halfway up, Shawn’s leg begins to ache and burn, but the excitement on Natalie’s face keeps him climbing. She sees a bench, Let's sit, I'm tired. Liar. There’s nothing wrong with admitting you need a minute. “Thank you. Sometimes I forget that. I don’t like appearing weak.” “No one would ever accuse you of that, Shawn Erickson.” I could spend the rest of my life with this woman.
Natalie starts rethinking being a travel writer. Kisses. He starts to say I love you, she cuts him off in fear. Let's just enjoy the last 2 days.
The next day under the cabana, Shawn: I’m going to miss you. “Don’t start saying goodbye. I’ll start blubbering like an idiot.” “I don’t want to say goodbye. I’m falling in love with you, Natalie.” “We barely know each other.” “I might not know what your favorite color is, or what you eat for breakfast each day, or whether you make your bed every morning. But I know who you are, Natalie. I know the kind of woman you are.” “I’m scared.” “I can’t lose you. I know we can make this work. I want to read your articles, and see where you go to school, and go to football games together, and meet your entire family—” The words are a slap in the face. It always comes back to Wyatt. “No. I’m done. We’re done.” She runs away, tries to catch the boat, slips and falls into the ocean. As she drowns, she regrets pushing Shawn away. Life is so fragile and short. She wants to spend hers with Shawn. She loves him.
Shawn's the only one who saw her go in. He runs, ignoring his screaming leg. He dives in, pulls her to the beach. She's not breathing. He starts compressions, focusing on her instead of sobbing. He’d done this to her. She never would’ve run away if he hadn’t pushed too hard, too soon. Finally she coughs. He lets out a sob. Guilt comes again. Natalie deserves to travel the globe and not be tied down by a man who couldn’t even run across the sand to her rescue. Natalie deserves better than him.
In the infirmary, he whispers I'm sorry. She wakes, thanks him for saving her. Tries to tell him she loves him, but he won't let her. “Go travel the world. Have your adventures. Be happy.”
Next day, Jase walks off the ship with her. She tells him what happened. “One minute he’s begging me to make things work, and the next he’s telling me we’re better off apart.” “Maybe watching you almost drown freaked him out or something. He had to be scared you would die.” “So he was scared of losing me and decided to, what, break up with me instead? That makes no sense.”
Wyatt picks her up. Tamera is on set, folks arrive tomorrow. Wyatt asks what's wrong, she cries and tells him. Want me to beat him up?
She unpacks, finds the ornament. She cries, remembering that day, the happiness in Shawn's face. She realizes the man who organized a Christmas drive for underprivileged kids would never date her for her family connections. He’d never even consider it. He’d chased after her. Didn’t she owe him the same courtesy? She edits her article.
Shawn's shop sold. He doesn't even care. Natalie's gone. He meets with Brooke for wrap up, has to use a cane because his knee is so swollen. Brooke is thrilled with the cruise and is already planning Valentine's Day. Brooke gets the story out of him. “Natalie might think she doesn’t care that I’d slow her down, but she’d end up resenting me in the end. I can’t do that to her.” “When will you men realize that you don’t get to decide what’s best for a woman?” “I never thought about it like that. Am I really taking away her choices?” “Do something that proves to her you were an idiot, but now are ready to take things to the next level.”
He quits. Mike won't give him the bonus. Shawn is OK with it because he's not willing to risk their future for any dollar amount.
Christmas Eve. She doesn't even have his number. She submitted the article last night, having rewritten it to be about how skeptical she’d been of the probability of falling in love in only eight days, only to end the trip having fallen in love with Shawn. They offered her a job, great package; she turned them down. “I saw the email, and I felt … nothing. No joy. No excitement. Just this sick pit in my stomach. Adventures don’t mean much if you can’t share them with the people you love.”
Natalie's deciding what to bake next when the doorbell rings. Tamera calls Natalie to the door. It's Shawn. “I thought you deserved someone better than me. Someone stronger. Younger. Someone who isn’t injured.” “I don’t want someone stronger and younger and uninjured. I want you. I love you.” Kisses. He gives her a gift. A domain name? Read the back. "To the woman who will always be my home. Travel agents can work from anywhere. I will gladly follow you around the world. I love you. - Your Secret Santa" “It’s you I need, Natalie. Not a place. A person.” She kisses him, almost knocks him over. Does the cane bother you? Only that you're in pain. “I’m not in pain when I’m with you. And I promise, I won’t slow you down on your travels. If something is too hard for us to do together, I’ll wait while you go on the adventure alone.” “I turned down the job. I realized the only adventures I want are the ones we go on together.”
Over the next 2 months, Shawn moves to Arizona. Wyatt recommends a physical therapist who's doing wonders. Shawn sets up his travel agency, Toujour endorses him, business is booming plus he's the official agency for all Toujour related vacations and trips. Natalie's article goes viral, job offers pour in, she decides she'll blog instead. Wyatt, Tamera, and Brooke will publicize it.
Valentine's Day. On the cruise's island, Shawn hurries her to "their" cabana, which has been set up with Christmas lights, silver domes over food, warm chocolate chip cookies and cold milk. Brooke had insisted Shawn train Jorge for Toujour cruises, Mike had relented, and some employees owed him favors. It's all the foods from when they first met.
He gives her a gift. She thinks it's an ornament, but it's a velvet box. He's on one knee with his bad leg extended. “I know we haven’t been dating very long. Some people would say that even considering marriage after only knowing each other for two months is insane.” “Those same people would probably say falling in love in eight days is impossible.” “Then they’re idiots. I love you, Natalie, with my entire soul. And I don’t want to wait another day to start our lives together. I can’t promise that things will always be easy. But I can promise to always work through things together.” “I love you so much. Yes. Yes!” He grinned. “I haven’t asked the question yet.”
Want to Read
November 14, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/14/2019)! 🎁
January 12, 2022
A single's cruise at Christmas with a matchmaking company, a fledgling travel writer, and the program director on the cruise ship. I really wanted to like this, there were lots of great parts of this story, but I just did not care about the characters. They were flat, their flirting was stilted, and the romance was just 'meh'. Standalone, HEA.
January 2, 2020
Predictable but sweet. I listened to the audiobook, a freebie, and the narrator did a nice job.
December 14, 2019
I loved Shawn and Natalie! I say this about each one of Lindzee’s characters but they’re perfect together.
Again, what I loved most about this book was that Brooke and Luke, the two who started it all, made quite a few appearances. I loved their story and how they fell in love but seeing them as married and new parents was so rewarding. Every time I let go of characters at the end of a book, I want more. Match Me by Christmas gave me more Brooke and Luke. It makes me want to go back and start the entire series over again!
Natalie isn’t looking for love. At all. More like running from it. All of her previous boyfriends only seem to want one thing – to use her to get close to her football star brother, Wyatt. so, as soon as Shawn mentions football and her brother, Natalie is instantly suspicious of his motives. (Of course, Shawn doesn’t know this!) And, despite her suspicions, I liked that she was able to open herself up to him and let him in. I mean, who falls in love in only 8 days? Crazy, right?
Then we have Shawn. He has a painful past – wanted to be in the Navy but then he had this really bad car accident and now has more metal than bone in his one knee. Oh yea, he’s also a decade older than Natalie and is getting ready to settle down, while she is just starting her career and wants to travel the world. I loved Shawn throughout the entire book but, at times, my heart broke for him a little. He definitely had feelings for Natalie before she caught up and he realized that they were in completely different points in their lives.
I really liked Natalie as a journalist. She’s not right in the middle of the whole Toujour cruise, but more of an outside observer. And Jase the movie star – I loved him in Cupcakes & Cowboys (now migrated to be the next book in this series *squee!* – Never Say Match). It was so fun seeing him show up and then hearing about Cassidy as the sister of Shawn. Everyone and everything is connected. Sunset Plains (Shawn’s home) is where Cupcakes & Cowboys took place. That’s why I love these larger series – so many different characters pop in and out of the stories. It gives extra layers and makes them feel like real people because they have history and backstory and are all connected in one way or another. It definitely enriched everything here.
So . . . true love in 8 days. That’s another thing I really liked about Match Me by Christmas. The Christmas cruise was like Toujour (Brooke’s match-making company)’s version of speed dating. You have 8 days to connect with one of your potential matches and fall in love. Easy, right?
As for being a Christmas story – eh, not so much. It was set at Christmas and I loved absolutely everything about the cruise but, it didn’t really feel like Christmas. Here in the Upper Midwest, Christmas is snow and cold. Not a cruise in Mexico. So, it didn’t really satisfy the Christmas desire that I thought it would. Seriously though, it’s the ONLY downfall of the book. Not much Christmas vibe.
I read this 261-page book in a little over a day (without the minions, I could have read it quicker but LOL – such is #momlife). I absolutely flew through it. The pacing is done perfectly, and the characters are real and well-rounded. I loved that Brooke and Luke played stronger roles in this one, not just little appearances.
See this review and others on our blog --> Ginger Mom and Company
Again, what I loved most about this book was that Brooke and Luke, the two who started it all, made quite a few appearances. I loved their story and how they fell in love but seeing them as married and new parents was so rewarding. Every time I let go of characters at the end of a book, I want more. Match Me by Christmas gave me more Brooke and Luke. It makes me want to go back and start the entire series over again!
Natalie isn’t looking for love. At all. More like running from it. All of her previous boyfriends only seem to want one thing – to use her to get close to her football star brother, Wyatt. so, as soon as Shawn mentions football and her brother, Natalie is instantly suspicious of his motives. (Of course, Shawn doesn’t know this!) And, despite her suspicions, I liked that she was able to open herself up to him and let him in. I mean, who falls in love in only 8 days? Crazy, right?
Then we have Shawn. He has a painful past – wanted to be in the Navy but then he had this really bad car accident and now has more metal than bone in his one knee. Oh yea, he’s also a decade older than Natalie and is getting ready to settle down, while she is just starting her career and wants to travel the world. I loved Shawn throughout the entire book but, at times, my heart broke for him a little. He definitely had feelings for Natalie before she caught up and he realized that they were in completely different points in their lives.
I really liked Natalie as a journalist. She’s not right in the middle of the whole Toujour cruise, but more of an outside observer. And Jase the movie star – I loved him in Cupcakes & Cowboys (now migrated to be the next book in this series *squee!* – Never Say Match). It was so fun seeing him show up and then hearing about Cassidy as the sister of Shawn. Everyone and everything is connected. Sunset Plains (Shawn’s home) is where Cupcakes & Cowboys took place. That’s why I love these larger series – so many different characters pop in and out of the stories. It gives extra layers and makes them feel like real people because they have history and backstory and are all connected in one way or another. It definitely enriched everything here.
So . . . true love in 8 days. That’s another thing I really liked about Match Me by Christmas. The Christmas cruise was like Toujour (Brooke’s match-making company)’s version of speed dating. You have 8 days to connect with one of your potential matches and fall in love. Easy, right?
As for being a Christmas story – eh, not so much. It was set at Christmas and I loved absolutely everything about the cruise but, it didn’t really feel like Christmas. Here in the Upper Midwest, Christmas is snow and cold. Not a cruise in Mexico. So, it didn’t really satisfy the Christmas desire that I thought it would. Seriously though, it’s the ONLY downfall of the book. Not much Christmas vibe.
I read this 261-page book in a little over a day (without the minions, I could have read it quicker but LOL – such is #momlife). I absolutely flew through it. The pacing is done perfectly, and the characters are real and well-rounded. I loved that Brooke and Luke played stronger roles in this one, not just little appearances.
See this review and others on our blog --> Ginger Mom and Company
January 15, 2019
Natalie is on board the Toujours matchmaking cruise to observe, with the aim of writing an article about it that will get her the job with a travel magazine that she has always wanted. But she has no faith in the idea of the cruise - 8 days is much to short a time to fall in love, and anyway her past relationships have taught her that no one ever dates her for any reason other than to get close to her famous brother - never for her own sake. Shawn has been on the Ocean Dream for years as VIP coordinator, and though he'd initially enjoyed the travel, now he's ready to take the bonus promised if this cruise goes well and settle down in his home town to open his own travel agency. When the two literally collide on the first day of the cruise, the interest of each is sparked - but with two such different aims in life, is any relationship possible?
I've read and enjoyed the previous books in the series, and therefore had high hopes for this one - and it didn't disappoint. A fun, clean light read, this is perfect for a bit of an escape. Though it does seem quite a rushed relationship to that point, the book itself doesn't feel rushed, and it is clear that the relationship does continue to grow and develop afterwards. My biggest frustration was the way that they refused to ever try to sit down and talk about ways they might be able to work out a joint future, but merely focussed on enjoying the here and now. The willingness to sacrifice for the other was good though, and overall I really enjoyed the story. Note that, though part of a series and sharing some characters with other books in the series, each book can be read as a standalone, and they can be read in any order.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I've read and enjoyed the previous books in the series, and therefore had high hopes for this one - and it didn't disappoint. A fun, clean light read, this is perfect for a bit of an escape. Though it does seem quite a rushed relationship to that point, the book itself doesn't feel rushed, and it is clear that the relationship does continue to grow and develop afterwards. My biggest frustration was the way that they refused to ever try to sit down and talk about ways they might be able to work out a joint future, but merely focussed on enjoying the here and now. The willingness to sacrifice for the other was good though, and overall I really enjoyed the story. Note that, though part of a series and sharing some characters with other books in the series, each book can be read as a standalone, and they can be read in any order.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
December 16, 2023
Match Me By Christmas (a No Match For Love romance), by Lindzee Armstrong
TL; DR: Great writing and real characters. A solid romance story for those who invest emotionally without a need for spice. Four stars.
Match Me By Christmas is a holiday romance novel with a dual point-of-view narrative. Our FMC, Natalie James, is a soon-to-be college graduate attempting to land a journalist's job at a travel magazine by writing an article about a singles' cruise on the Ocean Dream. Her goal? To globetrot for pay and adventure, and avoid romance. Our MMC, Shawn Erickson, is the Ocean Dream's specialty Cruise Director. After spending a decade working on the ship, Shawn wants nothing more than to retire from on-board living, settle down in the town he grew up in, and open a travel agency. When sparks start to fly between Natalie and Shawn, they both begin to question how much they're willing to invest, and whether they're willing to give up on their own dreams to make their romance work.
This was my first foray into Lindzee Armstrong's works and I can happily say that it was a fun one. I'm not generally big on romance without fantasy (reality, bleh) but I was in the mood for something festive and I had this on hand. The good news? Ms. Armstrong has proven herself a strong writer. I enjoyed her characters and how real all their interactions felt. Natalie had moments of relationship-trauma-based anxiety that affected her ability to fully trust Shawn's feeling and those really resonated with me. It was nice to see two characters who were broken and flawed in their own ways. Some romances tend towards one or both love interests being Hallmark picture-perfect and thankfully that wasn't the case in this book.
The bad news? Despite taking place around Christmas, the book didn't feel festive. I was looking to scratch a specific holiday itch and this book just didn't do that for me. I also have a hard time with novels that contain no real story beyond the romance. It feels unbalanced to me.
Still, the book was very well written. If you're a romance-lover who doesn't mind a low spice index, this book should be right up your alley. Grab a hot chocolate, a blankie, and enjoy.
TL; DR: Great writing and real characters. A solid romance story for those who invest emotionally without a need for spice. Four stars.
Match Me By Christmas is a holiday romance novel with a dual point-of-view narrative. Our FMC, Natalie James, is a soon-to-be college graduate attempting to land a journalist's job at a travel magazine by writing an article about a singles' cruise on the Ocean Dream. Her goal? To globetrot for pay and adventure, and avoid romance. Our MMC, Shawn Erickson, is the Ocean Dream's specialty Cruise Director. After spending a decade working on the ship, Shawn wants nothing more than to retire from on-board living, settle down in the town he grew up in, and open a travel agency. When sparks start to fly between Natalie and Shawn, they both begin to question how much they're willing to invest, and whether they're willing to give up on their own dreams to make their romance work.
This was my first foray into Lindzee Armstrong's works and I can happily say that it was a fun one. I'm not generally big on romance without fantasy (reality, bleh) but I was in the mood for something festive and I had this on hand. The good news? Ms. Armstrong has proven herself a strong writer. I enjoyed her characters and how real all their interactions felt. Natalie had moments of relationship-trauma-based anxiety that affected her ability to fully trust Shawn's feeling and those really resonated with me. It was nice to see two characters who were broken and flawed in their own ways. Some romances tend towards one or both love interests being Hallmark picture-perfect and thankfully that wasn't the case in this book.
The bad news? Despite taking place around Christmas, the book didn't feel festive. I was looking to scratch a specific holiday itch and this book just didn't do that for me. I also have a hard time with novels that contain no real story beyond the romance. It feels unbalanced to me.
Still, the book was very well written. If you're a romance-lover who doesn't mind a low spice index, this book should be right up your alley. Grab a hot chocolate, a blankie, and enjoy.
November 9, 2018
Match Me By Christmas will be certainly loved by the fans of the No Match for Love series. Not only for adding the story of a new, interesting couple to the already rich group of characters populating the saga, but also because it is immersed in the festive and magical atmosphere of a luxurious Christmas cruise in the Caribbean Sea.
This latest episode, however, is a little subdued in comparison to the other ones.
The characters are less vivid and the plot is a little dragged, making the book less vibrant than the other ones.
The reader is a little bored by the cruise, same as Natalie, the protagonist. However, many of the cameo episodes intertwined in the narration are vivid and highly emotional. For example, I personally loved the scene of the festivities organised by the crew members for a local orphanage as well as the descriptions of the islands visited by the cruise participants.
The appearances of Broke and Luke in the first half of the book lacks the spirit and the emotion expected after having read the previous instalments. Particularly demonstrated by their behaviour towards their newborn daughter, which appears surprisingly unemotional.
The pace does, however, takes a decisive steer towards the end. With Brooke and Luke back to their usual selves, the rhythm of the narration increases, and the story becomes more engaging.
The cameo appearances of the protagonists of the previous books also enlighten the final part of the story.
Overall, Match me by Christmas leaves the reader reasonably satisfied with their choice and entices the curiosity to check out the other books in the series
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own
This latest episode, however, is a little subdued in comparison to the other ones.
The characters are less vivid and the plot is a little dragged, making the book less vibrant than the other ones.
The reader is a little bored by the cruise, same as Natalie, the protagonist. However, many of the cameo episodes intertwined in the narration are vivid and highly emotional. For example, I personally loved the scene of the festivities organised by the crew members for a local orphanage as well as the descriptions of the islands visited by the cruise participants.
The appearances of Broke and Luke in the first half of the book lacks the spirit and the emotion expected after having read the previous instalments. Particularly demonstrated by their behaviour towards their newborn daughter, which appears surprisingly unemotional.
The pace does, however, takes a decisive steer towards the end. With Brooke and Luke back to their usual selves, the rhythm of the narration increases, and the story becomes more engaging.
The cameo appearances of the protagonists of the previous books also enlighten the final part of the story.
Overall, Match me by Christmas leaves the reader reasonably satisfied with their choice and entices the curiosity to check out the other books in the series
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions and comments are solely my own
December 31, 2018
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Natalie James will do anything to land a journalist job with her favorite travel magazine—even report on Toujour’s first ever singles cruise. After a string of one-sided relationships, she longs for the escape of vacationing around the globe. Even if that means watching professional matchmakers help naïve couples fall in love.
Shawn Erickson has spent a decade wasting away as a specialty cruise director while coming to terms with the accident that cost him his military ambitions. But he’s done running. Now he has a new dream—to open his own travel agency with the bonus he’ll get from hosting Toujour. After so long spent adrift, he longs for the stability of a permanent address and family.
When Natalie crashes into Shawn in the buffet line, their spark of attraction is undeniable. But as the cruise draws to a close, their tangled emotions reveal hidden wounds. Can a Christmas miracle help them build a real relationship before the ship docks for the last time?
MY TAKE
Natalie and Shawn got off to a bumpy start-literally all over his shirt. Their attraction (well hers anyway) was immediate. He had to get over the messy shirt first, but it didn't take him long. They were drawn to each other and the more they found out, the more they liked. It didn't take long for them to be totally smitten. They have to get over several issues like opposing life goals and the age difference. Smatter in all kinds of insecurities, and you have two people who are drawn together yet torn apart. A very satisfying conclusion. It was fun to see some of the Toujours people again.
I listened to the audiobook, and Tiffany Williams did a fabulous job as always.
4 1/2 stars
Natalie James will do anything to land a journalist job with her favorite travel magazine—even report on Toujour’s first ever singles cruise. After a string of one-sided relationships, she longs for the escape of vacationing around the globe. Even if that means watching professional matchmakers help naïve couples fall in love.
Shawn Erickson has spent a decade wasting away as a specialty cruise director while coming to terms with the accident that cost him his military ambitions. But he’s done running. Now he has a new dream—to open his own travel agency with the bonus he’ll get from hosting Toujour. After so long spent adrift, he longs for the stability of a permanent address and family.
When Natalie crashes into Shawn in the buffet line, their spark of attraction is undeniable. But as the cruise draws to a close, their tangled emotions reveal hidden wounds. Can a Christmas miracle help them build a real relationship before the ship docks for the last time?
MY TAKE
Natalie and Shawn got off to a bumpy start-literally all over his shirt. Their attraction (well hers anyway) was immediate. He had to get over the messy shirt first, but it didn't take him long. They were drawn to each other and the more they found out, the more they liked. It didn't take long for them to be totally smitten. They have to get over several issues like opposing life goals and the age difference. Smatter in all kinds of insecurities, and you have two people who are drawn together yet torn apart. A very satisfying conclusion. It was fun to see some of the Toujours people again.
I listened to the audiobook, and Tiffany Williams did a fabulous job as always.
4 1/2 stars
December 17, 2018
Match Me by Christmas is about Natalie James and Shawn Erickson. Natalie has been used by her exes to get close to her famous football brother. Her relationships were about her brother and never about her. She is quite jaded that she will never found someone who will love and care about her.
Shawn Erickson has given up on being happy. His happiness is to own his own travel agency and to live in an idealistic neighborhood after suffering from an accident that has severely injured his leg. He has never expected Natalie to crash into him in a buffet line.
During the launch of the first Toujour cruise, Shawn was depending on the bonus if he could secure future Toujour cruise to finally set roots. Natalie was hoping that her article on the first Toujour cruise will help her get her dream job to travel the world.
Both were not looking for love. Since love found them, the question is will they be giving up their dreams.
Brooke and Luke make their cameo appearance in Match Me by Christmas. Having characters from past books in this series, makes the stories in the the series connected, even though the story are standalone.
The narrator, Tiffany Williams does a pretty good job. With so many characters in this story, there are moments where two characters almost sound like each other. Excellent call to have that slight Southern draw for Shawn.
I was given this audiobook by the author. I have decided to voluntarily write an unbiased review for the book. I was not compensated or influence in any way for this review.
Shawn Erickson has given up on being happy. His happiness is to own his own travel agency and to live in an idealistic neighborhood after suffering from an accident that has severely injured his leg. He has never expected Natalie to crash into him in a buffet line.
During the launch of the first Toujour cruise, Shawn was depending on the bonus if he could secure future Toujour cruise to finally set roots. Natalie was hoping that her article on the first Toujour cruise will help her get her dream job to travel the world.
Both were not looking for love. Since love found them, the question is will they be giving up their dreams.
Brooke and Luke make their cameo appearance in Match Me by Christmas. Having characters from past books in this series, makes the stories in the the series connected, even though the story are standalone.
The narrator, Tiffany Williams does a pretty good job. With so many characters in this story, there are moments where two characters almost sound like each other. Excellent call to have that slight Southern draw for Shawn.
I was given this audiobook by the author. I have decided to voluntarily write an unbiased review for the book. I was not compensated or influence in any way for this review.
December 30, 2018
Match Me By Christmas is a nice clean romance set during Christmas time aboard a 5,000 passenger cruise ship. The story revolves around college senior Natalie James who is writing a spec article for her favorite travel magazine hoping to land a full-time journalist gig. She is writing a piece on the matchmaking company Toujour’s first ever singles' cruise. Although Natalie seriously questions whether true love can be found on an 8-day cruise, she will do anything for the opportunity to vacation around the globe writing travel articles.
It doesn’t take long before Natalie literally runs into speciality cruise director Shawn Erickson who has spent the past 10-years working for the cruise line. He’s hoping that he can soon “retire” from cruise ship life so he can move back to Oklahoma, open his own travel agency, and start a family. Despite being a decade older, the attraction between Shawn and Natalie is instantaneous and obvious to everyone who observes them. Even skeptic Natalie starts believing that a person can recognize their soul mate after only one short week given the right circumstances.
I listened to the Audible version of this audiobook written by Lindzee Armstrong and narrated by Tiffany Williams. As she did with other audiobooks in this series, Tiffany did an outstanding job providing varying voices for all characters. I love Tiffany's style, which is very natural with smooth overtones and subtle character nuances. In summary, I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook and all of the other audiobooks in the series.
It doesn’t take long before Natalie literally runs into speciality cruise director Shawn Erickson who has spent the past 10-years working for the cruise line. He’s hoping that he can soon “retire” from cruise ship life so he can move back to Oklahoma, open his own travel agency, and start a family. Despite being a decade older, the attraction between Shawn and Natalie is instantaneous and obvious to everyone who observes them. Even skeptic Natalie starts believing that a person can recognize their soul mate after only one short week given the right circumstances.
I listened to the Audible version of this audiobook written by Lindzee Armstrong and narrated by Tiffany Williams. As she did with other audiobooks in this series, Tiffany did an outstanding job providing varying voices for all characters. I love Tiffany's style, which is very natural with smooth overtones and subtle character nuances. In summary, I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook and all of the other audiobooks in the series.
November 16, 2018
“Falling in love isn’t about time—it’s about compatibility."
Natalie is traveling along on a cruise with Toujour, a matchmaking company, in order to write an article for a travel magazine. She's skeptical whether people can actually fall in love in such a short time, especially as she's had several relationships go horribly wrong with people she'd known for years. To make things more complicated, her older brother is a famous football star and she can never trust that a guy wants to know her for herself of her connections.
Shawn is just waiting for his big break to get out of the cruise industry and settle down. The Toujour group is supposed to be his last as a cruise director and with the bonus from a successful trip he can start his own travel business.
The conflicts:
Our main characters appear to be in different life stages with different desires--settle down vs travel the world
Shawn feels like a burden on Natalie because of his physical disability
Natalie really cannot get over past hurts and assumes the worst of intentions whenever her famous brother is brought up (even though it's totally normal for a person you're getting serious with to ask about your family)
Time: is a ten-day cruise (can't remember exact length haha) long enough to form a real attachment?
Natalie is traveling along on a cruise with Toujour, a matchmaking company, in order to write an article for a travel magazine. She's skeptical whether people can actually fall in love in such a short time, especially as she's had several relationships go horribly wrong with people she'd known for years. To make things more complicated, her older brother is a famous football star and she can never trust that a guy wants to know her for herself of her connections.
Shawn is just waiting for his big break to get out of the cruise industry and settle down. The Toujour group is supposed to be his last as a cruise director and with the bonus from a successful trip he can start his own travel business.
The conflicts:
Our main characters appear to be in different life stages with different desires--settle down vs travel the world
Shawn feels like a burden on Natalie because of his physical disability
Natalie really cannot get over past hurts and assumes the worst of intentions whenever her famous brother is brought up (even though it's totally normal for a person you're getting serious with to ask about your family)
Time: is a ten-day cruise (can't remember exact length haha) long enough to form a real attachment?
December 25, 2018
Natalie is hoping to land her dream job with a travel magazine, if she writes a great article on the first ever singles cruise hosted by Toujour. She is a bit jaded by love since all of her exes seemed to only be interested in her to get close to her NFL star brother. Just so we're clear...Natalie is NOT looking for love...besides, falling in love in 8 days is ludicrous, right?
Shawn, VIP cruise director, had to give up his dream of becoming a Navy Seal over 10 years ago, after a car accident destroyed his leg. For the past 10 yrs, Shawn has been working with the cruise ship and has dreams of opening his own travel agency...he has the store front picked out and everything. He just needs this Toujour cruise to go well and for them to become a recurring client so he can get that bonus for the down-payment on the store front.
What Natalie and Shawn do not factor into their plans, is each other...and the insane chemistry between them. Can they overcome the age difference...he's 10 yrs older...and their individual insecurities to find true love on the high seas?
This book was so engaging, with perfect narration, that I can't believe that this is my first exposure to the author, series and narrator! Certainly worth it and I now have to back track and read/listen to the rest of the series.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Shawn, VIP cruise director, had to give up his dream of becoming a Navy Seal over 10 years ago, after a car accident destroyed his leg. For the past 10 yrs, Shawn has been working with the cruise ship and has dreams of opening his own travel agency...he has the store front picked out and everything. He just needs this Toujour cruise to go well and for them to become a recurring client so he can get that bonus for the down-payment on the store front.
What Natalie and Shawn do not factor into their plans, is each other...and the insane chemistry between them. Can they overcome the age difference...he's 10 yrs older...and their individual insecurities to find true love on the high seas?
This book was so engaging, with perfect narration, that I can't believe that this is my first exposure to the author, series and narrator! Certainly worth it and I now have to back track and read/listen to the rest of the series.
I voluntarily accepted a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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