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Three Chicks Brewery #.5
Meet Me Under the Mistletoe
Penelope Carter has won the "wild child" award for years. Determined to bring joy instead of irritation over the holidays, she's arrived at River Rock to stay at her cousins brewery during the holidays, ready to earn her way off the naughty list. But when a few too many Christmas cocktails and a devilishly sexy cop from her past derail her plans, the nice list looks unreachable.
The last time Darryl Wilson saw Penelope, he was seventeen years old and had given her a hot first kiss. Ten years later, Penelope is a sweet distraction after his divorce, but she's also the sexiest trouble he's ever known. And when she becomes his trouble during the Christmas festivities that are meant to lead to his long-awaited promotion, he realizes that Christmas is about to get complicated.
But holiday wishes are sweeping through the snowy small town in Colorado, and if Darryl and Penelope survive the season, they'll see a little bit naughty is more than a little bit nice. And this Christmas might be the best one of all.
The last time Darryl Wilson saw Penelope, he was seventeen years old and had given her a hot first kiss. Ten years later, Penelope is a sweet distraction after his divorce, but she's also the sexiest trouble he's ever known. And when she becomes his trouble during the Christmas festivities that are meant to lead to his long-awaited promotion, he realizes that Christmas is about to get complicated.
But holiday wishes are sweeping through the snowy small town in Colorado, and if Darryl and Penelope survive the season, they'll see a little bit naughty is more than a little bit nice. And this Christmas might be the best one of all.
156 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2019
459 people are currently reading
711 people want to read
About the author
Stacey Kennedy
120 books2,396 followersStacey Kennedy is a USA Today bestselling author who writes contemporary romances full of heat, heart, and happily ever afters. With over 50 titles published, her books have hit Amazon, B&N, and Apple Books bestseller lists.
Stacey lives with her husband and two children in southwestern Ontario—in a city that’s just as charming as any of the small towns she creates. Most days, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or venturing into the forest with her horse, Priya. Stacey’s just as happy curled up indoors, where she writes surrounded by her lazy dogs. She believes that sexy books about hot cowboys or alpha heroes can fix any bad day. But wine and chocolate help too.
Stacey absolutely loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at stacey@staceykennedy.com.
Stacey lives with her husband and two children in southwestern Ontario—in a city that’s just as charming as any of the small towns she creates. Most days, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or venturing into the forest with her horse, Priya. Stacey’s just as happy curled up indoors, where she writes surrounded by her lazy dogs. She believes that sexy books about hot cowboys or alpha heroes can fix any bad day. But wine and chocolate help too.
Stacey absolutely loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at stacey@staceykennedy.com.
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December 31, 2021
Meet Me Under the Mistletoe is book four in the Kinky Spurs series by Stacey Kennedy. I loved the first three books in this series. This one didn’t have that much to do with this series and is more of an introduction to Stacey’s newer series, Three Chicks Brewery. Still, it was a sexy little second chance, holiday romance set in River Rock that I enjoyed.
Darryl Wilson and Penelope Carter first met when she was seventeen and he was a couple years older, working at River Rock’s Wilderness Camp as counselors. There was an immediate spark there and they shared a kiss that was something neither of them would ever forget. But then Penelope mysteriously left the camp. Now, ten years later, Darryl is a police officer in River Rock. It’s what he always wanted to do. He’s divorced and trying to make a life for himself, working towards a promotion. Then there she is, the girl he never forgot. She’s most definitely trouble but maybe he needs a little trouble in his life!
Penelope has spent the last ten years moving from one job to another, living life day to day. She never forgot Darryl and that kiss they shared. But she never expected to see him again and here he was. They only have a few days. She’s leaving again the day after Christmas. They can enjoy this time together and then she’ll move on, because that’s what she does. Or, can he convince her that this is where she belongs, in River Rock with him?
“She only got one shot at this crazy thing called life. Maybe it was time to stop running and find that thing that made her happy.”
This was fairly short, sexy and sweet. These two were destined to find each other again and I loved that they finally got their chance. There were several editing errors that bothered me some but I still enjoyed the story.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Darryl Wilson and Penelope Carter first met when she was seventeen and he was a couple years older, working at River Rock’s Wilderness Camp as counselors. There was an immediate spark there and they shared a kiss that was something neither of them would ever forget. But then Penelope mysteriously left the camp. Now, ten years later, Darryl is a police officer in River Rock. It’s what he always wanted to do. He’s divorced and trying to make a life for himself, working towards a promotion. Then there she is, the girl he never forgot. She’s most definitely trouble but maybe he needs a little trouble in his life!
Penelope has spent the last ten years moving from one job to another, living life day to day. She never forgot Darryl and that kiss they shared. But she never expected to see him again and here he was. They only have a few days. She’s leaving again the day after Christmas. They can enjoy this time together and then she’ll move on, because that’s what she does. Or, can he convince her that this is where she belongs, in River Rock with him?
“She only got one shot at this crazy thing called life. Maybe it was time to stop running and find that thing that made her happy.”
This was fairly short, sexy and sweet. These two were destined to find each other again and I loved that they finally got their chance. There were several editing errors that bothered me some but I still enjoyed the story.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
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January 6, 2023
RATING: 3/3.5 stars to Meet Me Under the Mistletoe ★ ★ ★
From what I understand, Meet Me Under the Mistletoe is a crossroads novelette set in the same locale of River Rock, where the author has already paired off and coupled up supporting characters in a preceding series. This little seasonal in-between both overlaps and bridges two of her series' together - one already in the works and one with a new set of hopefuls to fall in love. Unlike most reviewers this is a Stacey Kennedy beginner for me, and I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised. I wanted something romance themed with end-of-year energy and this was fit for a wonderful purpose. It's a lovely little festive romance about a flame that never got to burn, and after a missed opportunity that didn't have its chance, the season of giving is open to spreading out a second one for one who enforces the law and one who breaches it with a public performance of misconduct. And she hasn't even worn in her stay yet. Not known for her becoming behaviour, Penelope's back in the small town she's once routinely spent her summers in. She's no Grinch and she's no buddy the Elf but this jolly time of year is one best circumvented for the emotional complication it brings with it. It's a time where family ties are heightened, for better or worse. It doesn't appeal to a better-behaved Penelope, and that's where her teen crush (now law-abiding cop) finds her, buoyed on a few too many shots in her system, belting out a known Christmas tune and skating like a champ in inappropriate footwear. It's been ten years and Darryl finds Penelope at the centre of attention, of his attention, and just like that, he can't stop staring all over again.
The chemistry is still very much alive and kicking, and neither have forgotten the camp kiss that left a lasting impression, but never one to settle, Penelope's life is one long road trip from A-Z without pause, a temporary stop until her life resumes. But having never really stopped long enough to still and watch the snow fall, she finds herself forced to, enjoying the family time with her cousins and reconnecting intimately with Darryl. And here she is to behave herself into the good graces of her cousins, hoping to soften the blow that usually comes with her entrance. Even though Darryl's fairly hopeful to put distance between himself and her propensity for trouble, and not wanting to jeopardise one opportunity with another, he's easily the quickest to want more and make Penelope see that history doesn't have to remain a moment in time. That new chances and new homes are all around her. She, on the other hand, is ready to run as soon as the bells stop ringing. And time spent with her forces him to confront his own error in misreading her the way most do.
Going into this I expected something Christmas-themed (naturally) and fairly light-hearted, but it's also tender-hearted, pulls at the lasting effects of a broken home and angles into some real-life meaning over home and familial complication. As a displaced daughter of a failed marriage, Penelope's never felt particularly wanted or seen and I appreciated the given space for the humanness in how she was portrayed. We humans don't come pristinely packaged and harder times usually come in the form of 'happier' times. There's the difficulty of being an outsider, especially to her own family, and while it's something Penelope rarely gives the time of day, it hits home every time she remembers home. There's an often sizeable emphasis on perfection when the holidays roll around and the stories that come armed with a smidge more than merry inflection by favouring the hummaness over the convivial merrymaking are some of my favourites. Though, this does do both. Darryl's an all-round easy to warm to hero, and like Penelope says, he's one of the good ones. He's also a very gorgeous cop, who I'm sure wears a Santa outfit with the might of a man in authority. I liked the attitude he had about his previous marriage. And with his ex wife, he's very respectful and accepting of what had happened between them. Like I said, good guy right here. It had heart, which was really lovely to see. This is very 'opposites attract' in nature but it plays well in attracting the chemistry despite the quickie time frame and lack of a real history. The grammar does feel clunky in places I have to admit, and the given blurb sports a technical error because I'm certain Darryl was 20 when their first kiss was shared, and with the mini difference in age, Penelope would have been 17. It also makes for inconvenient formatting when what are supposed to be a text messages aren't italicised; there's a scene where Penelope receives and sends some texts to her cousins and it's awkward to make distinction from text to prose, so just a little note on that too.
A silver lining to this uncomfortable time of year? He comes bearing a badge, packing, law-willing but not eager to fraternise for appearances sake. But Penelope? She's irresistible, as is the second-chance attraction, so his anti-fraternisation mantra is easier spoken than procedured. There's always fun to be had with some rule-breaks though. With most short stories one can often feel that all it takes is a blink before the story is bypassed in its entirety and yet there's a bit of everything with Meet Me Under the Mistletoe. An irreverent heroine, a candid, community-bound cop, a white Christmas, a nice bit of character development and reflection, community service, belonging and home, reconnection, a snowed-in situation, acts of kindness, attraction that spirals from a moment unforgotten and to bind up the thematic ensemble, there's a curmudgeonly cat called Ebeneezer. Sweet, season-suitable and spiced with spice for the romance lovers. Seasonal timing reconnects a young crush but there's a bigger picture of belonging for a heroine who doesn't typically play well with this time of year. A second chance for a first chance that never really got to happen.
Content Warning/Listing: childhood parent separation. Parental abandonment. Some smut scenes. Some swearing. Mentions a previous heart attact. There's also a scene where both protagonists visit a pediatric ward with child cancer patients.
-----------------------------------------------
Visit my blog for more reviews: V.L. Book Reviews
T W I T T E R: @TheVicarious1
I N S T A G R A M: @Vicarious.Hearts
-----------------------------------------------
From what I understand, Meet Me Under the Mistletoe is a crossroads novelette set in the same locale of River Rock, where the author has already paired off and coupled up supporting characters in a preceding series. This little seasonal in-between both overlaps and bridges two of her series' together - one already in the works and one with a new set of hopefuls to fall in love. Unlike most reviewers this is a Stacey Kennedy beginner for me, and I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised. I wanted something romance themed with end-of-year energy and this was fit for a wonderful purpose. It's a lovely little festive romance about a flame that never got to burn, and after a missed opportunity that didn't have its chance, the season of giving is open to spreading out a second one for one who enforces the law and one who breaches it with a public performance of misconduct. And she hasn't even worn in her stay yet. Not known for her becoming behaviour, Penelope's back in the small town she's once routinely spent her summers in. She's no Grinch and she's no buddy the Elf but this jolly time of year is one best circumvented for the emotional complication it brings with it. It's a time where family ties are heightened, for better or worse. It doesn't appeal to a better-behaved Penelope, and that's where her teen crush (now law-abiding cop) finds her, buoyed on a few too many shots in her system, belting out a known Christmas tune and skating like a champ in inappropriate footwear. It's been ten years and Darryl finds Penelope at the centre of attention, of his attention, and just like that, he can't stop staring all over again.
The chemistry is still very much alive and kicking, and neither have forgotten the camp kiss that left a lasting impression, but never one to settle, Penelope's life is one long road trip from A-Z without pause, a temporary stop until her life resumes. But having never really stopped long enough to still and watch the snow fall, she finds herself forced to, enjoying the family time with her cousins and reconnecting intimately with Darryl. And here she is to behave herself into the good graces of her cousins, hoping to soften the blow that usually comes with her entrance. Even though Darryl's fairly hopeful to put distance between himself and her propensity for trouble, and not wanting to jeopardise one opportunity with another, he's easily the quickest to want more and make Penelope see that history doesn't have to remain a moment in time. That new chances and new homes are all around her. She, on the other hand, is ready to run as soon as the bells stop ringing. And time spent with her forces him to confront his own error in misreading her the way most do.
Going into this I expected something Christmas-themed (naturally) and fairly light-hearted, but it's also tender-hearted, pulls at the lasting effects of a broken home and angles into some real-life meaning over home and familial complication. As a displaced daughter of a failed marriage, Penelope's never felt particularly wanted or seen and I appreciated the given space for the humanness in how she was portrayed. We humans don't come pristinely packaged and harder times usually come in the form of 'happier' times. There's the difficulty of being an outsider, especially to her own family, and while it's something Penelope rarely gives the time of day, it hits home every time she remembers home. There's an often sizeable emphasis on perfection when the holidays roll around and the stories that come armed with a smidge more than merry inflection by favouring the hummaness over the convivial merrymaking are some of my favourites. Though, this does do both. Darryl's an all-round easy to warm to hero, and like Penelope says, he's one of the good ones. He's also a very gorgeous cop, who I'm sure wears a Santa outfit with the might of a man in authority. I liked the attitude he had about his previous marriage. And with his ex wife, he's very respectful and accepting of what had happened between them. Like I said, good guy right here. It had heart, which was really lovely to see. This is very 'opposites attract' in nature but it plays well in attracting the chemistry despite the quickie time frame and lack of a real history. The grammar does feel clunky in places I have to admit, and the given blurb sports a technical error because I'm certain Darryl was 20 when their first kiss was shared, and with the mini difference in age, Penelope would have been 17. It also makes for inconvenient formatting when what are supposed to be a text messages aren't italicised; there's a scene where Penelope receives and sends some texts to her cousins and it's awkward to make distinction from text to prose, so just a little note on that too.
A silver lining to this uncomfortable time of year? He comes bearing a badge, packing, law-willing but not eager to fraternise for appearances sake. But Penelope? She's irresistible, as is the second-chance attraction, so his anti-fraternisation mantra is easier spoken than procedured. There's always fun to be had with some rule-breaks though. With most short stories one can often feel that all it takes is a blink before the story is bypassed in its entirety and yet there's a bit of everything with Meet Me Under the Mistletoe. An irreverent heroine, a candid, community-bound cop, a white Christmas, a nice bit of character development and reflection, community service, belonging and home, reconnection, a snowed-in situation, acts of kindness, attraction that spirals from a moment unforgotten and to bind up the thematic ensemble, there's a curmudgeonly cat called Ebeneezer. Sweet, season-suitable and spiced with spice for the romance lovers. Seasonal timing reconnects a young crush but there's a bigger picture of belonging for a heroine who doesn't typically play well with this time of year. A second chance for a first chance that never really got to happen.
Content Warning/Listing: childhood parent separation. Parental abandonment. Some smut scenes. Some swearing. Mentions a previous heart attact. There's also a scene where both protagonists visit a pediatric ward with child cancer patients.
-----------------------------------------------
Visit my blog for more reviews: V.L. Book Reviews
T W I T T E R: @TheVicarious1
I N S T A G R A M: @Vicarious.Hearts
-----------------------------------------------
December 12, 2023
3.25⭐
Genre ~ holiday novella
Series ~ more info below
Setting ~ Colorado
Publication date ~ December 3, 2019
Est page Count ~ 156 (p+ 10 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 3 hours 56 minutes
Narrator ~ Kelsey Navarro
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ characters in their late 20's, cop, small town, opposites attract, good guy/bad girl, forced proximity, snowed in, second chance, minimal steamage
Another one that's been chilling on my kindle since December 2021. I was a little scared when I read the prologue because she was 17 and I am not interested in reading steamage books about kids this age, but then we time jump 10 years so it's okay.
Darryl & Penelope shared an intense kiss 10 years ago, so intense that neither forgot about it all this time....wowza that musta been quite the smooch.
Penelope does have a sad backstory, but I didn't really care for how she handled her emotions as it was on the immature side. Also, I know this is fiction, but she passes out drunk and wakes up the next day not knowing whose bed she is...if that's not bad enough there was a glass of water that said 'drink me' and 2 pills that said 'take me', ummmm you don't know where you are, but you're just going to pound it back? Girl.
Darryl was a sweet guy with a heart of gold, and has an adorable pup named Tyson that likes to put on antler ears and cheer up sick kids.
Overall, it was alright.
Series notes:
It seems to be #4 in the Kinky Spurs series and the prequel to the Three Chicks Brewery series. This is my first time reading this author, so I'm not sure if truly a standalone, however Penelope is living with her cousins, which are the TCB characters and they're not settled down yet, so I'd suggest reading this one, then that those, then head on over to the Kinky Spurs series if you so desire. But don't quote me on this because maybe the KS series is the way to go first because there was a quick mention of them in this one. So I guess basically do what you want and don't listen to me.
Narration notes:
I did not listen to this one, but am just giving the info above for reference.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ holiday novella
Series ~ more info below
Setting ~ Colorado
Publication date ~ December 3, 2019
Est page Count ~ 156 (p+ 10 chapters +e)
Audio length ~ 3 hours 56 minutes
Narrator ~ Kelsey Navarro
POV ~ dual 3rd
Featuring ~ characters in their late 20's, cop, small town, opposites attract, good guy/bad girl, forced proximity, snowed in, second chance, minimal steamage
Another one that's been chilling on my kindle since December 2021. I was a little scared when I read the prologue because she was 17 and I am not interested in reading steamage books about kids this age, but then we time jump 10 years so it's okay.
Darryl & Penelope shared an intense kiss 10 years ago, so intense that neither forgot about it all this time....wowza that musta been quite the smooch.
Penelope does have a sad backstory, but I didn't really care for how she handled her emotions as it was on the immature side. Also, I know this is fiction, but she passes out drunk and wakes up the next day not knowing whose bed she is...if that's not bad enough there was a glass of water that said 'drink me' and 2 pills that said 'take me', ummmm you don't know where you are, but you're just going to pound it back? Girl.
Darryl was a sweet guy with a heart of gold, and has an adorable pup named Tyson that likes to put on antler ears and cheer up sick kids.
Overall, it was alright.
Series notes:
It seems to be #4 in the Kinky Spurs series and the prequel to the Three Chicks Brewery series. This is my first time reading this author, so I'm not sure if truly a standalone, however Penelope is living with her cousins, which are the TCB characters and they're not settled down yet, so I'd suggest reading this one, then that those, then head on over to the Kinky Spurs series if you so desire. But don't quote me on this because maybe the KS series is the way to go first because there was a quick mention of them in this one. So I guess basically do what you want and don't listen to me.
Narration notes:
I did not listen to this one, but am just giving the info above for reference.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
December 9, 2022
I thought this was a good book to read during this season. It was a short Christmas romance.
I thought the author did a good job with the details even though it was a shorter story. The two main characters were people you could relate it and I feel like we got to know them pretty well.
I wouldn't mind reading other ones from this series, but also feel like I don't have that overwhelming feeling to go and hurry up and read them. Check your warning before reading, it does have some 18+ scenes.
One thing negative I'd say is the Epilogue didn't have anything to do with the couple and so I felt let down... Didn't leave me feeling all the good fuzzy feelings of a romance sotry.
I thought the author did a good job with the details even though it was a shorter story. The two main characters were people you could relate it and I feel like we got to know them pretty well.
I wouldn't mind reading other ones from this series, but also feel like I don't have that overwhelming feeling to go and hurry up and read them. Check your warning before reading, it does have some 18+ scenes.
One thing negative I'd say is the Epilogue didn't have anything to do with the couple and so I felt let down... Didn't leave me feeling all the good fuzzy feelings of a romance sotry.
December 1, 2022
How Kennedy was able to pack so much emotion in such a short story is amazing! I laughed, I teared up, and my heart was full of love for Penelope and Darryl.
A perfect holiday novella!
A perfect holiday novella!
January 23, 2020
The perfect segue from the Kinky Spurs series into her new series Three Chicks Brewery, Stacey nails this one right to the wall. I really wanted to see the Blackshaw brothers best friend Daryl, town police officer and the stand up, do right guy get his own book and true to her writing Stacey delivers one heck of a story bringing us Daryl and Penelope.
10 years after a scorcher of a kiss at summer camp Penelope disappears on Daryl and hasn't been seen or heard from since. Until now, when he's called to find a highly intoxicated woman skating in her high heels on the town fountain. A crowd has gathered and phones are out videoing the lovely now grown up Penelope singing and skating (quite well mind you) in her sky high heels. Penelope hates Christmas. Not a good time of year for her at all. Daryl sighs, breaking up the crowd and coaxing Pen down off the fountain. Unsure of what to do with her and not knowing she's staying at her cousins house at the brewery he takes her home and tucks her in, the perfect gentleman. He's still confused as to why she disappeared all those years ago and was never seen or heard from again, until now. He's since married and amicably divorced. Still does the right thing. Still has a thing for Penelope.
Surprisingly Penelope opens up to Daryl about where she's been and what's she's been doing and why.
Hating the holidays the way she does, her cousins coax her into one Christmas back in town with them, a place she's always loved since she was a child before she embarks on yet her next job. Slinging drinks on a cruise ship. She prefers not to stay in one place and changes jobs often. Safer that way. Her three cousins should not be more different, the oldest is judge, jury and a grump and has a young son, middle is the happy medium and the youngest is the brewmeister in the group. They're working on getting their product out to a growing population of consumers and working on new brews. All Pen is trying to do is not cause any trouble for the sisters, after she's duly reminder of that by Claire. She already feels guilty enough.
So Pen is still not done with her law breaking behavior and Daryl trying to keep things in order because he's up for a promotion he badly wants, and doesn't need anything ruffling the waters for him. He blew his last shot after his divorce. Pen is given the option of community service for the police departments Christmas programs which Daryl is the head of this year. Otherwise it's jail and a fine... Pen agrees, despite hating the holidays, the reasons unfold during the story. That said, Pen surprises the heck out of Daryl by going above and beyond at every event they are scheduled for. Meanwhile the relationship unfolds between the two and when the rubber hits the road with these two, in true Stacey Kennedy form, kindles may smoke or spontaneously combust. Yeegad the woman writes the best steam.
Daryl wants her to stay, Pen can't make any promises. Everyone loves Penelope, she's endeared the whole town to her charm and gracious manner. Despite her misgivings about herself and the endless nagging self doubt. Daryl always seems to sense when she was foundering. Damn I love that guy.
At the final event of her Christmas duties which falls on Christmas Eve, Daryl takes one more chance to get Pen to stay. Will she or won't she? The night doesn't quite go off as planned for Penelope and she does what she does best. Knocks a few back. What happens after that? Read the book. You get to see those Blackshaw brothers again, meet the women of Three Chicks Brewery and some of the other folks in town. Warm, funny, relatable characters, solid plot line, checks every box on the list.
I'll read anything that Stacey writes, she never disappoints. Stellar as always!
Another must read!
10 years after a scorcher of a kiss at summer camp Penelope disappears on Daryl and hasn't been seen or heard from since. Until now, when he's called to find a highly intoxicated woman skating in her high heels on the town fountain. A crowd has gathered and phones are out videoing the lovely now grown up Penelope singing and skating (quite well mind you) in her sky high heels. Penelope hates Christmas. Not a good time of year for her at all. Daryl sighs, breaking up the crowd and coaxing Pen down off the fountain. Unsure of what to do with her and not knowing she's staying at her cousins house at the brewery he takes her home and tucks her in, the perfect gentleman. He's still confused as to why she disappeared all those years ago and was never seen or heard from again, until now. He's since married and amicably divorced. Still does the right thing. Still has a thing for Penelope.
Surprisingly Penelope opens up to Daryl about where she's been and what's she's been doing and why.
Hating the holidays the way she does, her cousins coax her into one Christmas back in town with them, a place she's always loved since she was a child before she embarks on yet her next job. Slinging drinks on a cruise ship. She prefers not to stay in one place and changes jobs often. Safer that way. Her three cousins should not be more different, the oldest is judge, jury and a grump and has a young son, middle is the happy medium and the youngest is the brewmeister in the group. They're working on getting their product out to a growing population of consumers and working on new brews. All Pen is trying to do is not cause any trouble for the sisters, after she's duly reminder of that by Claire. She already feels guilty enough.
So Pen is still not done with her law breaking behavior and Daryl trying to keep things in order because he's up for a promotion he badly wants, and doesn't need anything ruffling the waters for him. He blew his last shot after his divorce. Pen is given the option of community service for the police departments Christmas programs which Daryl is the head of this year. Otherwise it's jail and a fine... Pen agrees, despite hating the holidays, the reasons unfold during the story. That said, Pen surprises the heck out of Daryl by going above and beyond at every event they are scheduled for. Meanwhile the relationship unfolds between the two and when the rubber hits the road with these two, in true Stacey Kennedy form, kindles may smoke or spontaneously combust. Yeegad the woman writes the best steam.
Daryl wants her to stay, Pen can't make any promises. Everyone loves Penelope, she's endeared the whole town to her charm and gracious manner. Despite her misgivings about herself and the endless nagging self doubt. Daryl always seems to sense when she was foundering. Damn I love that guy.
At the final event of her Christmas duties which falls on Christmas Eve, Daryl takes one more chance to get Pen to stay. Will she or won't she? The night doesn't quite go off as planned for Penelope and she does what she does best. Knocks a few back. What happens after that? Read the book. You get to see those Blackshaw brothers again, meet the women of Three Chicks Brewery and some of the other folks in town. Warm, funny, relatable characters, solid plot line, checks every box on the list.
I'll read anything that Stacey writes, she never disappoints. Stellar as always!
Another must read!
December 3, 2019
Stacey Kennedy cleverly intertwines the Kinky Spurs Bar (her last series) with Three Chicks Brewery (her upcoming series) and gives her fans a delicious holiday treat. Years after a somewhat forbidden kiss left them both a bit off center, two people are reunited as one is struggling to find a place she belongs and the other is working to get a promotion he lost after an incident sent him reeling.
I loved the chemistry between Darryl and Penelope, but more than that it was how they “got” one another even though they barely knew each other as teens. There was something magical about watching them fall in love even while fighting it.
Sweet yet oh so sexy, I loved Meet Me Under the Mistletoe!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I loved the chemistry between Darryl and Penelope, but more than that it was how they “got” one another even though they barely knew each other as teens. There was something magical about watching them fall in love even while fighting it.
Sweet yet oh so sexy, I loved Meet Me Under the Mistletoe!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
January 2, 2021
This was a short and fun Christmas romance!
I would love more from this couple too!!
Kelsey Navarro narrates this adorable story and does a fabulous job! This is my first story done by both the author and the narrator and I will be seeking out more!!
I would love more from this couple too!!
Kelsey Navarro narrates this adorable story and does a fabulous job! This is my first story done by both the author and the narrator and I will be seeking out more!!
December 26, 2021
short, sweet, clichey but good for a hot quick holiday read
December 4, 2022
Lots of Christmas spirit, which I loved. Story was a little blah.
December 2, 2020
This novella brings you a second chance romance, a drunken sing a long in a fountain, community service, a snowed in night of sex, and all the jingle bells are ringing!
Penelope and Daryl had a hot and heavy make out session one summer when they were at a summer camp. When Penelope disappears it leads Daryl to believe he scared her off.
When Penelope shows up years later it is drunkenly singing in a fountain. Daryl now a cop is trying not to laugh while also trying to maintain order. He needs to make a good impression to get a promotion so he decides to help her out. Community service will keep her around, they can spend time together and he can win over his boss. Problem is that means he gets to see the deeper side to Penelope and the things she has been hiding and running from for years. He is hoping they get a second chance to explore the feelings they had as teenagers.
Adorable, sexy, steamy, small town vibes, and a second chance at love and family. A great holiday read to get you into the season.
Penelope and Daryl had a hot and heavy make out session one summer when they were at a summer camp. When Penelope disappears it leads Daryl to believe he scared her off.
When Penelope shows up years later it is drunkenly singing in a fountain. Daryl now a cop is trying not to laugh while also trying to maintain order. He needs to make a good impression to get a promotion so he decides to help her out. Community service will keep her around, they can spend time together and he can win over his boss. Problem is that means he gets to see the deeper side to Penelope and the things she has been hiding and running from for years. He is hoping they get a second chance to explore the feelings they had as teenagers.
Adorable, sexy, steamy, small town vibes, and a second chance at love and family. A great holiday read to get you into the season.
November 26, 2019
***ARC Provided by the Author***
3.5 Stars
I loved the idea of this book...the wild woman and the straitlaced police officer who prides himself on being steady. The idea that not only do opposites attract, but that they have in the past and that neither of them have forgotten the other and the relationship they started 10 years ago.
I love how they balance one another. I loved that Penelope learns what it is like to feel at home and Darryl learns what it is like to take risks for what he wants. This feels like what you want from a romance, 2 characters who not only find one another, but also find a way to be better together than apart.
This romance is both sweet and hot, their chemistry works well, and while it does use Christmas as a part of the story line, I also believed that they would have gotten together in May, not just in December when there are elves and Christmas events to throw them together.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
3.5 Stars
I loved the idea of this book...the wild woman and the straitlaced police officer who prides himself on being steady. The idea that not only do opposites attract, but that they have in the past and that neither of them have forgotten the other and the relationship they started 10 years ago.
I love how they balance one another. I loved that Penelope learns what it is like to feel at home and Darryl learns what it is like to take risks for what he wants. This feels like what you want from a romance, 2 characters who not only find one another, but also find a way to be better together than apart.
This romance is both sweet and hot, their chemistry works well, and while it does use Christmas as a part of the story line, I also believed that they would have gotten together in May, not just in December when there are elves and Christmas events to throw them together.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
December 5, 2019
5 star review of Meet Me Under The Mistletoe by Stacey Kennedy
AUDIO REVIEW:
I love stories based around Christmas, it’s my most favourite holiday of the year. I also love stories based in small towns so Meet Me Under The Mistletoe is a win/win for me.
Stacey Kennedy is a new author to me although I have listened to a couple of books from the narrator by Kelsey Navarro. This was a story that pulled me in and kept me engaged right from the start with great narration which certainly enhanced my enjoyment of the story.
I loved the build up in Penelope and Darryl’s relationship as the chemistry between them intensifies. This sis a second chance at love story that is a feel good book that left me with a smile on my face and certainly got me in the mood for the holiday season.
AUDIO REVIEW:
I love stories based around Christmas, it’s my most favourite holiday of the year. I also love stories based in small towns so Meet Me Under The Mistletoe is a win/win for me.
Stacey Kennedy is a new author to me although I have listened to a couple of books from the narrator by Kelsey Navarro. This was a story that pulled me in and kept me engaged right from the start with great narration which certainly enhanced my enjoyment of the story.
I loved the build up in Penelope and Darryl’s relationship as the chemistry between them intensifies. This sis a second chance at love story that is a feel good book that left me with a smile on my face and certainly got me in the mood for the holiday season.
December 7, 2019
Audio Review: Meet Me Under the Mistletoe (A River Rock Christmas Romance) by Stacey Kennedy (Author), Kelsey Navarro (Narrator)
If sexy has a heart, count on Stacey Kennedy knowing how to pull at the strings. Meet Me Under the Mistletoe breathes heat, but it bleeds heart. One kiss rocked the foundation of two young hearts. Then reality set in and their chance was loss. When years gone by plants the seed and fate provides the fertilizer, can the present heal two hearts lost so long ago? No one gets the heart quite like Kennedy. With a sprinkle of humor, a bushel of heart and the sultry vocal of Kelsey Navarro, Meet Me Under the Mistletoe becomes an affair to remember. An experience worth having again and again.
If sexy has a heart, count on Stacey Kennedy knowing how to pull at the strings. Meet Me Under the Mistletoe breathes heat, but it bleeds heart. One kiss rocked the foundation of two young hearts. Then reality set in and their chance was loss. When years gone by plants the seed and fate provides the fertilizer, can the present heal two hearts lost so long ago? No one gets the heart quite like Kennedy. With a sprinkle of humor, a bushel of heart and the sultry vocal of Kelsey Navarro, Meet Me Under the Mistletoe becomes an affair to remember. An experience worth having again and again.
Want to read
December 7, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (12/9/2021)! 🎁
December 27, 2021
MEET ME UNDER THE MISTLETOE BY Stacey Kennedy is a A River Rock Christmas Romance. A Second-Chance at Love Romance Novella.
Officer Darryl Wilson approached the large fountain in the center of a small town of River Rock, nestled into the Colorado mountains. There she was! A woman he had not seen in 10 years. The 911 call said she was skating on the fountain in her dangerously high heels. She was drunk, but immediately saw it was the boy she had kissed 10 years ago. Darryl knew that Penelope Carter was trouble, but ended up taking her home so she could sober up. She met his bloodhound named Tyson & the cat named Ebenezer. The dog was nice, but the cat was mean as could be & hated everyone.
They reminisced about when they kissed 10 years ago, when she was 17 & he was 20. There was a misunderstanding about why she disappeared the next morning. This was a second-chance for them, even if it would be a short reunion. They had a hot time making the most of it. Penelope had dated a lot of men, but none like Darryl. He was a truly good guy. A small-town cop who lived life on the straight & narrow. The one who does the right thing. Where as, she was not a good girl. She was a fun girl. But this girl wanted this good guy as much as he wanted her. They find a happiness together and whether they can stay together is a problem. I really liked this story!
Officer Darryl Wilson approached the large fountain in the center of a small town of River Rock, nestled into the Colorado mountains. There she was! A woman he had not seen in 10 years. The 911 call said she was skating on the fountain in her dangerously high heels. She was drunk, but immediately saw it was the boy she had kissed 10 years ago. Darryl knew that Penelope Carter was trouble, but ended up taking her home so she could sober up. She met his bloodhound named Tyson & the cat named Ebenezer. The dog was nice, but the cat was mean as could be & hated everyone.
They reminisced about when they kissed 10 years ago, when she was 17 & he was 20. There was a misunderstanding about why she disappeared the next morning. This was a second-chance for them, even if it would be a short reunion. They had a hot time making the most of it. Penelope had dated a lot of men, but none like Darryl. He was a truly good guy. A small-town cop who lived life on the straight & narrow. The one who does the right thing. Where as, she was not a good girl. She was a fun girl. But this girl wanted this good guy as much as he wanted her. They find a happiness together and whether they can stay together is a problem. I really liked this story!
December 20, 2022
Sweet Couple, Sour Writing
First, the sweet: The plot was relatively solid, but the characters were where the author really excelled. They were all really likeable, and the central couple could be incredibly sweet and delightfully spicy. I think creating characters is this author’s superpower. They really impressed me.
Then, the sour: The writing was terrible. Hard-to-push-through kind of terrible. Would-have-dnf’ed-if- I-had-already-met-my-reading-goal kind of terrible. I absolutely love that indie authors are able to self-publish and share their stories with the world. I understand that this often means not being able to hire someone to proofread or edit the book. But the errors in this one were numerous enough that the author proofreading herself or using a basic grammar check software would have made a huge improvement.
Overall, I would love to see what this author could do if she played to her strengths and got some help for the areas in which she could grow.
First, the sweet: The plot was relatively solid, but the characters were where the author really excelled. They were all really likeable, and the central couple could be incredibly sweet and delightfully spicy. I think creating characters is this author’s superpower. They really impressed me.
Then, the sour: The writing was terrible. Hard-to-push-through kind of terrible. Would-have-dnf’ed-if- I-had-already-met-my-reading-goal kind of terrible. I absolutely love that indie authors are able to self-publish and share their stories with the world. I understand that this often means not being able to hire someone to proofread or edit the book. But the errors in this one were numerous enough that the author proofreading herself or using a basic grammar check software would have made a huge improvement.
Overall, I would love to see what this author could do if she played to her strengths and got some help for the areas in which she could grow.
December 13, 2019
There is nothing better than a sizzling, feel good Christmas romance, and Stacey Kennedy delivers just that! Penelope and Darryl share a kiss as teenagers. Now when Penelope comes back home to see her cousins at the Brewery, she finds herself in a little trouble, and who should pick her up? Officer Darryl! This story from start has some very humorous scenes along with a couple that has incredible chemistry. Penelope is sentenced with community service and who knew how this punishment would change their lives. This is written so full of warmth that your heart will feel full, so full of steam that your heart will palpitate and so full of love for the holiday that you will feel the spirit of giving. It's a great short romance with all the emotional tugs and passion we love to get from Stacey Kennedy.
Kelsey Navarro delivers it all to us with a fabulous performance. I love her voice and she has fast become a favorite of mine. With so many different voices, she makes it so easy to know who is speaking. She also has a knack for pulling us in and investing us in the story. I loved her portrayal of this story!
Kelsey Navarro delivers it all to us with a fabulous performance. I love her voice and she has fast become a favorite of mine. With so many different voices, she makes it so easy to know who is speaking. She also has a knack for pulling us in and investing us in the story. I loved her portrayal of this story!
December 28, 2021
A sweet and saucy Christmas themed second chance romance. Penelope and Darryl first meet when they both worked at the summer camp, she was 17 and he was 20. Penelope very suddenly disappeared from her job and Darryl always thought it was something he said that made her run.
Fast forward 10 years, and Penelope is back spending Christmas with her cousins when she and Darryl bump into each other. That attraction from those years before still burning bright. This time however as Darryl is the local cop and Penelope is up to no good so he needs to be careful he doesn't mess up the hinted at promotion.
Nice little story of them rediscovering their friendship and getting to know each other better. Sime good laughs along the way.
Fast forward 10 years, and Penelope is back spending Christmas with her cousins when she and Darryl bump into each other. That attraction from those years before still burning bright. This time however as Darryl is the local cop and Penelope is up to no good so he needs to be careful he doesn't mess up the hinted at promotion.
Nice little story of them rediscovering their friendship and getting to know each other better. Sime good laughs along the way.
January 21, 2022
Meet Me Under The Mistletoe is a fun holiday romance by Stacey Kennedy. This is a fairly quick read, perfect for those with limited reading time. Ms. Kennedy has given readers a well-written book populated with outstanding characters. Penelope and Darryl shared a kiss at the camp they were working at. The next day Penelope was gone. Fast forward ten years and drunken Penelope is skating on the town fountain and Officer Darryl is sent to put an end to the show. Penelope and Darryl's story is packed with drama, humor, angst and sizzle. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from Stacey Kennedy in the future. Meet Me Under The Mistletoe is book 4 of the Kinky Spurs Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.
April 17, 2022
I had the chance to read this for free and as this is a new author for me I wanted to give it a go.
I would say a little bit of editing was needed. Sometimes the wrong word was used or a sentence didn't make sense but that was the only thing that slowed me down.
The characters were likeable. Penelope is very relatable, the problem with some divorces is that the original child is forgotten. Not all, but some. And this is not OK. Its OK to find your own happiness but dont forget your child that had no part in it.
I really felt for Penelope.
It made me laugh, especially with Ebenezer. I do know cats exactly like him.
It was a proper feel good book, it flowed well and they were a great couple. Plus, it did not take long to read so I highly recommend.
I would say a little bit of editing was needed. Sometimes the wrong word was used or a sentence didn't make sense but that was the only thing that slowed me down.
The characters were likeable. Penelope is very relatable, the problem with some divorces is that the original child is forgotten. Not all, but some. And this is not OK. Its OK to find your own happiness but dont forget your child that had no part in it.
I really felt for Penelope.
It made me laugh, especially with Ebenezer. I do know cats exactly like him.
It was a proper feel good book, it flowed well and they were a great couple. Plus, it did not take long to read so I highly recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2022
Some parents stink!
I really !one the story, the meaning and the new for Penelope! Penelope is always running since her parents forced her between them during the divorce then all but ignoring her for Gosh knows what horrible reason! Some people should not be allowed to be parents and inflict years, sometimes a lifetime of pain and heartache on impressionable kids! Thank goodness Daryl is a good, hot and naughty character who stands his ground and doesn't let Penelope get away! Together they rekindle what started as a unforgettable kiss 10 years before Penelope's life changed & not for the better!
Hot, heat, heart & family set in a small town with a second chance romance! Good Holiday read! ✌
I really !one the story, the meaning and the new for Penelope! Penelope is always running since her parents forced her between them during the divorce then all but ignoring her for Gosh knows what horrible reason! Some people should not be allowed to be parents and inflict years, sometimes a lifetime of pain and heartache on impressionable kids! Thank goodness Daryl is a good, hot and naughty character who stands his ground and doesn't let Penelope get away! Together they rekindle what started as a unforgettable kiss 10 years before Penelope's life changed & not for the better!
Hot, heat, heart & family set in a small town with a second chance romance! Good Holiday read! ✌
December 14, 2022
Only 4*s - but for good reason!
I really enjoyed this book, but I had to reduce my starring.
There were numerous pages that were simply blank! Ironically, each was at an important part of the story.
I like a storyline that flows and pulls you along so that you don't realise it's happening.
Sadly, it was interrupted too often. Forcing me to spend the next few pages trying to ascertain what I'd missed, thus losing any connection to the story.
Then, just as I began to regain the flow, it reoccurred!
Having said that, had these enforced stops not incurred my enjoyment, I would definitely have given it 5*s.
A lovely story with my favourite ending.....a HEA ❤️
I really enjoyed this book, but I had to reduce my starring.
There were numerous pages that were simply blank! Ironically, each was at an important part of the story.
I like a storyline that flows and pulls you along so that you don't realise it's happening.
Sadly, it was interrupted too often. Forcing me to spend the next few pages trying to ascertain what I'd missed, thus losing any connection to the story.
Then, just as I began to regain the flow, it reoccurred!
Having said that, had these enforced stops not incurred my enjoyment, I would definitely have given it 5*s.
A lovely story with my favourite ending.....a HEA ❤️
January 8, 2023
Penelope stresses you out with her terrible decisions
DNF 70% through. Spice is good, but Penelope is dumber than a bag of hammers. He can do much better than her. Their chemistry is perfect but she's extremely reluctant to stay for him, and he's pretty much perfect. On the other hand, her parents are the worst people on the planet and she pines for their non existent breadcrumbs of affection, when she should just toss them like the garbage they are. That proves she's an idiot. People, no matter blood or water, you can tell who real family is. If anyone treats you like crap, drop that mofo, cause life is too short to put up with that BS.
DNF 70% through. Spice is good, but Penelope is dumber than a bag of hammers. He can do much better than her. Their chemistry is perfect but she's extremely reluctant to stay for him, and he's pretty much perfect. On the other hand, her parents are the worst people on the planet and she pines for their non existent breadcrumbs of affection, when she should just toss them like the garbage they are. That proves she's an idiot. People, no matter blood or water, you can tell who real family is. If anyone treats you like crap, drop that mofo, cause life is too short to put up with that BS.
December 19, 2024
A Steamy, Emotional, Heartwarming & Wholesome Christmas Themed Prequel
I did not expect this Christmas themed prequel to be so damn emotional and wholesome! 🥲
The relatability to Penelope (FMC) was intense especially when it came to her family and rocky relationships with them. Darryl was such a standup guy! I think I need to read more small town cop books now 😆. I'm invested in this series now and can't wait to dive into The Three Chicks Brewery! Btw, that scene at the homeless shelter and ESPECIALLY the one where Penelope and Darryl visit the children's hospital... Absolutely heart wrenching! 🥺💔😭
I did not expect this Christmas themed prequel to be so damn emotional and wholesome! 🥲
The relatability to Penelope (FMC) was intense especially when it came to her family and rocky relationships with them. Darryl was such a standup guy! I think I need to read more small town cop books now 😆. I'm invested in this series now and can't wait to dive into The Three Chicks Brewery! Btw, that scene at the homeless shelter and ESPECIALLY the one where Penelope and Darryl visit the children's hospital... Absolutely heart wrenching! 🥺💔😭
January 10, 2022
Cute! Humorous! Heart-tugging!
Wow: drunk and ice skating in high heels, Penelope has some serious issues! At this point she only does things like that when someone has hurt her. Her mom and dad hate each other and when they divorced, they created brand new families and shut Penelope out.
10 years ago Penelope and Darryl shared an explosive kiss, and the hot cop has never forgotten her. Will he be able to convince her that she is worthy of love no matter how often her insensitive parents reject her?
Wow: drunk and ice skating in high heels, Penelope has some serious issues! At this point she only does things like that when someone has hurt her. Her mom and dad hate each other and when they divorced, they created brand new families and shut Penelope out.
10 years ago Penelope and Darryl shared an explosive kiss, and the hot cop has never forgotten her. Will he be able to convince her that she is worthy of love no matter how often her insensitive parents reject her?
December 8, 2020
Overcoming the hurt of uncaring parents
They met at summer camp when Penelope was 17 years old and Darryl was 20 . They shared one passionate kiss and then she disappeared. They are reunited when she returns to the town they first met. He's now a police officer and she has been drifting from job to job over the past 10 years. Heartwarming story of overcoming past hurts, finding family, friends and rekindling their deep passion for life and each other.
They met at summer camp when Penelope was 17 years old and Darryl was 20 . They shared one passionate kiss and then she disappeared. They are reunited when she returns to the town they first met. He's now a police officer and she has been drifting from job to job over the past 10 years. Heartwarming story of overcoming past hurts, finding family, friends and rekindling their deep passion for life and each other.
August 15, 2021
Okay read
This is the first book I've read by this author and it was an okay read. There were a few places where the word usage/sentence structure could have used a little tweaking, but overall it had a good premise and decent character development, but to be honest, I bought this one when it was on sale and while I'd gladly read more if they were in KU, I don't know that I would pay full price for another one.
This is the first book I've read by this author and it was an okay read. There were a few places where the word usage/sentence structure could have used a little tweaking, but overall it had a good premise and decent character development, but to be honest, I bought this one when it was on sale and while I'd gladly read more if they were in KU, I don't know that I would pay full price for another one.
December 8, 2021
Audiobook Review:
What a great holiday listen by Stacey Kennedy. This story had a great mixture of steamy second chance romance with holiday cheer and family drama and fun comedic moments. Both leading characters were likable and I was even left interested in some of the secondary characters and would like to read their stories. Kelsey Navarro did an excellent job with the narration and made the story all the more enjoyable for me.
What a great holiday listen by Stacey Kennedy. This story had a great mixture of steamy second chance romance with holiday cheer and family drama and fun comedic moments. Both leading characters were likable and I was even left interested in some of the secondary characters and would like to read their stories. Kelsey Navarro did an excellent job with the narration and made the story all the more enjoyable for me.
January 16, 2022
Meet Me Under The Mistletoe (A River Rock Christmas Romance)
The love story of Penelope and Darryl. Penelope and Darryl meet at a summer camp when she was seventeen. For five days they found happiness then her parents sent for her. Now he a police officer and she a troublemaker. She in River Rock for Christmas and the first time she does is dance in the town fountain. Will they find love again? Great story.
The love story of Penelope and Darryl. Penelope and Darryl meet at a summer camp when she was seventeen. For five days they found happiness then her parents sent for her. Now he a police officer and she a troublemaker. She in River Rock for Christmas and the first time she does is dance in the town fountain. Will they find love again? Great story.
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