Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Pink: A Christmas Romance

Rate this book
Ethan Cooper, a high-powered corporate attorney in New York City, seemingly has it all. Drawn to the city after law school, he escaped life in his hometown of Charleston, South Carolina, and his family’s notoriety. Years later, the strained relationship with them reaches new heights when Charlotte Rose, a part-time stationery designer and mechanical engineer, enters his work life. Together, they embark upon the journey to bring a racketeering terrorist to justice, tied to a gang responsible for the death of Ethan’s wife utilizing both of their skill sets and that of friends. In the process, Christmas romance softens his heart as he is drawn to her southern charms, kindness, and warmth. With her influence upon his life, Ethan discovers he is missing the most important aspect of his life, love. Will they both heal from the profound loss of a spouse, with God’s leading, and learn to love again?

414 pages, Hardcover

Published October 5, 2021

4 people are currently reading
826 people want to read

About the author

Monica Collier

7 books81 followers
Monica Collier is an award winning Christian romantic suspense novelist. She writes heartwarming stories and compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Monica's emotional journeys are geographic, family oriented, have strong female characters, and incorporate Biblical principles in modern life. Her books have been recommended by active and retired military personnel, Pastors, professional women and several print venues. 2021 NYC Big Book Award winner for Pink: A Christmas Romance. When she's not writing she enjoys traveling and photography as much as possible.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
25 (34%)
4 stars
21 (29%)
3 stars
23 (31%)
2 stars
3 (4%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Tejomai (bible_and_books).
173 reviews36 followers
August 14, 2021
It's just a fine read but I couldn't connect with the characters ... It was a bit chaotic and not so intresting
Also , the 45 age romance didn't have much go with me, but was just fine!!

This isn't what I though it would be, having a heroine all accomplished and yeah she's an Electronic digital professional, military security services owner, a million dollar worth company owner but gives it all up to follow her passion, I actually like that part.... But all through the book, Charlotte is the smartest person and keeps solving everything .. she's a linguist, amazing cook, takes care of everyone likes drivers and assistance,carries power best, professional Gun handling , loving and teaching children chemistry in a fun way(even I am an engineering student and I very well remember my chemistry labs.. they're the worst.. it's not at all fun)
Anyways our all accomplished heroine is now solving a terrorism case!! Which no one gets clues other that her!

I like my heroines strong, witty and professional too.. but I don't know .. she's just an all accomplished women with a physical hearing aid .. I just couldn't connect or imagine such a person 😬

Coming to the Terrorism part, it was fine suspense but one could smell it easily all through the book.. there was no guessing work for my imagination

Umm.. overall if you like such aspects , then it's a Go for you.
Profile Image for Shannon.
439 reviews13 followers
June 26, 2021
Monica Collier knows how to weave an action-packed Christian romance that pulls out every emotion from the swoon worthy chemistry between Ethan Cooper and Charlotte Rose to the intense nail biting covert operation that provides readers with a brief cameo appearance of Capt. Blaine and her well-trained team.

Who says that love only comes around once in a life time? In Collier's latest novel, she reveals that sometimes the cure to a broken heart is simply a matter of finding the right person at the right time, who happens to understand those feelings--and someone who can appreciate the delicious flavors of a good bourbon and bacon.
Profile Image for Jan Romes.
Author 55 books108 followers
July 2, 2021
Pink is a well-written Christmas story with subtle miracles, romance, intrigue, emotion, and great personalities! I absolutely loved the complex main characters, Charlotte and Ethan. Their story is unique and they felt very real to me. The author had a keen way of drawing me into the scenes, as though I was right there with them as things unfolded. I would be remiss if I didn't mention the great roles the secondary characters played as well. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It touched on some sensitive subjects, that I feel the author handled very well - PTSD, panic attacks, loss, grief, divorce, and more. There was great action and surprises, and a ton of joy too! (The food descriptions had me salivating a few times as well and I'm going to have to try hot-pepper mint tea)
Profile Image for Marie.
578 reviews23 followers
September 26, 2021
Thank you in advance to author, Monica Collier, for providing an advanced review copy of the book through Kate Rock Book Tours. A positive review was definitely not required or requested in any way; all words are my own.

This is my first introduction to the author’s work, and it is an interesting introduction as well.

If you’re looking for a second-chance, (light) Christian romance, Christmas story with a terrorist plot – this could be your kind of read. It is a little lengthy at over 400 pages, and the chapters are a bit long. Right off it gave me J.A.G/NCIS vibes with a little FBI: Most Wanted mixed in. There is even a Mossad reference hidden in here.

Don’t let the cutesy and whimsical cover fool you – this is a moderately “deep” read with some potentially triggering content:

💥Domestic violence
💣Terrorism
✈️9/11 References
💔Miscarriage
💔Hysterectomy from trauma
💔Infidelity
💣Graphic mentions of deaths (Benjamin’s and Stephanie’s)
⛔Some potentially offensive references to ethnicities (spoken by non-white/Hispanic character)

Readers sensitive to these topics will likely want to be cautious when reading this book despite how lightly the author touched on it.

There are a lot of characters to keep tabs on. One of them, Captain Caroline Blaine, has appeared in other books from the author. Though this is not connected to those books and functions strictly as a standalone.

However, I do get the feeling that Charlotte has appeared in the other books given the closeness she has with Caroline. Also, a character from Kissing Hollywood is mentioned at the first part of this book as well.

The two main characters are Charlotte Rose and Ethan Cooper. The story is told primarily from Charlotte and Ethan’s POV.

Charlotte is, at times, far too much as a person; almost coming off as unrealistic. She speaks five (5) languages on top of English, she is a mechanical engineer, she seems to know a few things about computers. And, she designs stationary. She lost her husband Benjamin David (Dah-Veed; like Ziva from NCIS) in a bombing.

It is clear that PINK is some kind of nickname for her but that is almost 2/3 into the novel. At times it can seem like she is some kind of superwoman. However, the author did create a few weaknesses for the character. And, it is interesting to see Charlotte navigate these.

Ethan is in charge of a business and happens to employ Charlotte’s friend, Racheal. Though he knows Racheal’s friend as “Charlie”. He’s perhaps one of the most basic characters in the story and my favorite. Rachael is definitely a major character in this as well. Other support characters are just that – support.

Caroline is in the U.S Navy and is part of the intelligence division called ARES. It is interesting to note that in season one (1) of J.A.G there was an episode called ARES which dealt with a weapons system.

As Charlotte is visiting Rachael in New York, and looking to set up an office for her stationary business; Ethan gets word there is a lead on his wife’s murder. As it turns out, a friend and client of his has information that is essential to not just solving Stephanie’s death, but thwarting a terrorist plot. There is definitely something suspicious going on when Charlotte is viewing a building that is clearly a storage facility for chemicals. The owner doesn’t even know he owns it, and it isn’t for sale or rent.

Dānā Darbandi now fears for his life when he learns of his partner’s dealings. Ashem Ahmadi is using Darbandi’s company for obvious terrorist activity. And, it is Darbandi who is linked to Ethan. And, Darbandi agrees to help gather information to take Ahmadi down.

Between gathering everything on the group behind Stephanie’s death, Ethan and Charlotte begin a romance. Not exactly romantic settings if you ask me.

For around the first part of the book it was a sweet read made tedious by the constant use of corporate dialogue and business interactions that were unconnected to the plot.

The readers meet Ethan’s sister who is definitely going through a bad divorce which her sons know more than what she thinks.

The case turns into “alphabet” soup – DEA, FBI, Navy, Homeland Security. And, as a result, Caroline is brought in with a more substantial role.

It wasn’t until around the 69% mark that I understood the reference to “Pink”. It is actually Charlotte’s code name given to her by Caroline Blaine. And, Ethan begins to learn there is more to Charlotte than she is letting on.

The book, for me, didn’t really pick up until around chapter 14 when the suspense really got good. It doesn’t last too long though. Anyone looking for a long, drawn-out suspense will be disappointed. I loved Ethan during that part of the book and how well he handled himself. It played out like an episode of a well-written TV show.

The most interesting part is when Ethan and his sister Jane’s mother, Margaret, shows up. She’s one of those “society” types that feels “work” is beneath her and her family. She arrives in the comically titled “Godzilla Has Landed” chapter (19).

She gets the wrong impression about Charlotte (seeing her as the “help”). And, this is where the book takes a humorous turn. I have to admit that at the end of the chapter, I loved Ethan telling his mother “Now put that in your Louis Vuitton and stuff it!”.

The ending is rather predictable, but still on the cute side. As cute as it can be with Charlotte’s “problems”.

Given the overall theme and content of the book, the title and cover didn’t seem to fit that well. Had it been strictly a Christmas romance the title (and cover) might have been better suited.

Adding in the suspense, the deaths of the spouses, Charlotte’s health, as well as a terrorist plot – it didn’t have a real “happy” feel to go with the title and cover. It was also emotional reading about 9/11 10 days after the 20th anniversary.

There was enough material for perhaps two smaller separate books (even just novellas) as opposed to one huge book. I definitely would’ve read them as two books, much like the Caroline Blaine Chronicles. I enjoyed the romance, despite Charlotte’s “sad” news; and I enjoyed the suspense aspect. But, together in this book? It didn’t work as well as I hoped for. I feel like the suspense could’ve been extended a bit longer as it was wrapped rather quickly.

There was a mistake with “clip” being mistaken for magazine, and those in the military or who work with them would (or should) know the difference. At one point a clearly Muslim character is seen drinking alcohol. This is usually forbidden. It can depend on their religious observance though but should be noted.

Some things I found familiar: like Charlotte, I too have used the isopropyl alcohol trick to save and clean pens. Definitely a life saver. I also use the Parker Jotter, but a ball point version. They are great pens overall. Also, the stuffing vs. dressing. My family never did the bird trick and we actually buy Mrs. Cubbison’s dressing. Though I do like the perspective on the differences.

Despite some of the issues that I had with the book, overall, it was an entertaining read. I definitely didn’t regret reading it, and would probably re-read it in the distant future. I have STACKS of books in my TBR which is why I say that.

Though this is listed as a “Christian” book, there were only a handful of Christian related themes – prayer and references to God. This were not as integral to the story as I thought. Those who are looking for a lighter Christian themed book are sure to enjoy this. This is a clean read with depicted violence. There is no foul language or intimate acts referred to or depicted.

I definitely wouldn’t hesitate to read another book by the author. Those who enjoyed the Caroline Blaine Chronicles and Kissing Hollywood are sure to enjoy this one.
Profile Image for Carolyn Collier.
3 reviews2 followers
June 25, 2021
Be still and know that I am God. The scripture is brought to mind as I read this wonderful novel.
I was on the edge of my seat whileI traveled with Charlotte, Caroline and Ethan as justice was served. The world was left in a better place because of it. My heart was also warmed with joy as I watched true love develop between Charlotte and Ethan. Both made room in their hearts for the other’s departed spouse.

Love does come softly when we are not looking. Two Grits (girl or gent raised in the south) were brought together in New York City.

Pink has it all: strong faith, courage, excitement, suspense and romance. Charlotte Rose, Ethan Cooper, Caroline Blaine and all the other characters take you on the ride of your life. It’s the total package. I came away wanting to be more like the beautiful Charlotte who is kind to everyone, standing strong in my faith, willing to surrender and be led by the Holy Spirit where ever He would lead.

This review is posted in exchange for an advanced reader copy.
1 review
July 18, 2021
While having health issues I nearly abandoned this book based on the first few pages. After a few days I picked it back up and was hooked from the start. I was pulled into the characters feeling like I had known them forever and they were my new best friends. Monica has done it again with a beautiful love story that we can relate to especially if you have lost your spouse and found love several years later. Thank you for bringing us Charlotte, Ethan and their family and friends.
Profile Image for Sue .
2,050 reviews124 followers
October 16, 2021
When I saw the cover of this book, I was intrigued but when I read that it was a Christmas book - something that I rarely read, I decided not to read it. The intrigue of the story outweighed the Christmas aspect so I decided to take a chance and am very happy that I did.

Ethan and Charlotte are both dealing with the loss of a spouse. Even though the deaths occurred several years ago, Christmas is always a sad time. Ethan has become a workaholic to help handle his pain. He's cut himself of from family and any opportunities to love again. Charlotte is different. She has become a very giving person with lots of friends and the ability to fit in anywhere. When Ethan and Charlotte meet, there were immediate sparks between them but it wasn't until they started working together to bring a racketeering terrorist to justice, that their friendship grew into romance. Will they be able to help each other heal from the loss of a spouse and learn to love again and get their happily ever after edging? I really enjoyed seeing the changes that Ethan and Charlotte went through during this book. They really learned that Christmas is a joyous occasion and a chance to get rid of grief and find happiness with family and loved ones.

This is my first book by this author and I plan to check out some of her earlier books. It had romance, intrigue, terrorism, friendship and great main characters with Southern charm. My only problem with this book -and it is a very minor problem, is that there were too many characters who were introduced in the beginning of the book which led to lots of confusion on my part. Overall, it's a fantastic well written Christmas novel that you don't want to miss

Thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book to read and review.
Profile Image for Jenn.
341 reviews53 followers
October 5, 2021
A Christmas Romance
author: Monica Collier
Red Press Co., Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles

Monica Collier has captured the perfect shade of pink in her suspenseful, romantic Christmas novel. Although the color is soft and subtle, the layers of Pink are richly textured and deep. Charlotte and Ethan's love story is tender and emotional, yet accompanied by an intriguing thrill ride of espionage and corporate racketeering.
North Carolina native Charlotte Rose exuberates elegance in her signature pink attire and love for stationery design. She also wears the impressive title of President for Rose Aerospace Defense. New York City is where she meets Ethan Cooper, a powerful attorney from South Carolina. Both have wounds from loss, with Charlotte suffering physical and emotional symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Ethan has painful memories that hinder his enjoyment of the upcoming holidays. As Christmas approaches, healing begins.
Collier deserves credit for a unique, complex plot that takes her many main and side characters through heart-pounding crime drama, while also revealing their personal stories of pain, vulnerability, strength, and faith. I found Charlotte and Ethan to both be intelligent, humorous, and of good character. The descriptions of Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's events delivered the warmth of traditions and family ties. I am left with beautiful visual memories from Collier's expressive detail in atmosphere, food and drink, decor, place, emotions, and captivating characters in Pink.
Thank you to Net Galley and Red Press Co., Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the advance reader's copy and opportunity to provide my honest review.
#Pink #NetGalley
Profile Image for Jane.
1,115 reviews62 followers
October 11, 2021
3.5 stars from me.

Thank you to the author and Bookworms Anonymous (FB) for this win.

I wasn't sure if I was going to like this book because it said it was Christian/Christmas book. I don't read holiday books usually. I think it was the title that attracted me. It wasn't over the top Christian.

I really loved the characters of Ethan and Charlotte and Rachael. Ethan was a co-partner in a law firm and he worked with Rachael who was friends with Charlotte. Ethan did not know this. It was pure coincidence that Charlotte went to NY to visit her.

Things happen besides romance, like finding justice for Ethan's late wife's killer and bringing them down. Charlotte became very involved in this with her smarts in Military Intelligence which was her family’s business. Ethan became a different person after meeting Charlotte -- not so buttoned down after the loss of his wife years ago. Charlotte also lost her husband and her hearing after a bomb in Israel, who was also grieving.

I loved Ethan's family except for his mother but she even changed for the better.
Profile Image for Vivian Payton.
132 reviews38 followers
September 20, 2021
When I originally saw the cover reveal for Monica Collier’s PINK, I fell in love with it and immediately knew I had to read it. Covers always speak to me, and so did her blurb. In fact, I read the ARC of PINK twice, and I’m so glad I did. The second time around I got even more out of it. The genre for this book is a Christian romance suspense novel. Now that also had me intrigued. I don’t think I’ve ever read this genre before. Christian, yes, romantic suspense, yes, but never the two combined. It sounded original to me which made it more intriguing. Well, let me tell you, as a first-time reader of this author and with this specific genre, I was in for a wild ride.

But before all the action takes place, let’s visit the two main characters, Charlotte Rose and Ethan Cooper. Charlotte is a mechanical engineer and part-time stationery designer as well as being called upon in special missions for the U.S. Navy. She’s the President of Rose Aerospace and Defense, a Department of Defense contractor. The U.S. Navy is her number one client. She’s attractive, extremely smart and witty, very kind, but can also be a firecracker. She’s in New York visiting her friend, Racheal, who works for Ethan, as well as looking at real estate for her stationery boutique there. Ethan is a corporate attorney who is married to his work. He dreads the holiday season as well as Christmas music as his wife was killed during this time. They are two lonely souls whose spouses were killed senselessly and tragically, and they’re brought together over bourbon and bacon. Charlotte is “the mystery bacon-loving-stationer-in pink”, and Ethan is “a well-dressed man, proper, bourbon and bacon-loving southern gentleman.”

As mentioned above, there is some pretty intense action in this novel nabbing a “racketeering terrorist”, and I felt like I was right there. I was sitting on the edge of my seat wondering what’s happening! Charlotte is one heck of a woman who knows exactly what she’s doing. “She had been sent here with a purpose greater than herself.”

As Charlotte and Ethan spend time together, they heal from their broken hearts. Charlotte tells Ethan to celebrate the holidays and honor Stephanie’s memory, not the pain. “If you don’t, that’s just letting the enemy steal your joy and peace.” Ethan’s world became “shades of grey” when his wife passed, but now these two have found love again. I loved how the author allows these characters to find the small pleasures they were missing, builds upon them slowly, and then releases their love for one another softly and gently.

Do yourself a favor and find out what a Christian romantic suspense novel is all about if you’ve never read one. PINK turns shades of grey into the colors of the rainbow which are gifts from the Divine.
Profile Image for Savannah Hendricks.
Author 30 books369 followers
January 4, 2022
Don’t allow this cover to fool you, this book has it all. A suspenseful romance that deals with health issues, 9/11, and (trigger warnings for those who’ve had miscarriages). There is nothing Charlotte Rose can’t do, and sadly I struggled with connecting to her character because of this. However, it didn't distract me enough to still get into the story. If you enjoy suspense and a nice rollercoaster climb to the top, then you’ll enjoy how this comes to head. I found Ethan to be my favorite character. If you’re looking for a light Christian read that encompasses many genres, this book is for you.
Profile Image for Lori Smith.
1 review1 follower
September 5, 2021
This is a wonderful book that keeps you in suspense as you travel through the story. I wanted to keep reading to find out what happened. Author shares the story in descriptive detail and you can imagine being there. Would read other books from this author.
Profile Image for Alisa Wagner.
Author 43 books130 followers
October 5, 2021
Monica Collier’s enchanted yuletide novel, Pink: A Christmas Romance (release date October 5, 2021), will whisk you away to a holiday in New York City where the Spirit of Christmas begins to melt away the pain of loss; allowing healing, laughter and even, love, to permeate the frozen hearts of the main characters, Ethan and Charlotte.

Charlotte Rose, a southern belle with an engineer’s wit and a stunning smile, wants to make a new life for herself away from military secrets and heartbreaking trauma. Ethan Cooper, at big city lawyer in a hand-stitched suit, has buried deep his personal tragedy, numbing his heartache with work, jaded by closure that’s eluded him.

During a late fall solo lunch, Charlotte and Ethan find themselves contently alone, but, by happenstance or fate, shift chairs to enjoy a few laughs and some bacon and bourbon together.

A glimmer of holiday hope kindles, like evening candlelight, that could easily be blown out with the winds of corruption and deceit. However, as the main characters and friends follow the clues to exposing deep-seeded fraud, Ethan and Charlotte find that risking their lives to expose evil has given them a second chance at happiness–but only if they can warm the heart of Ethan’s snobbish and difficult mother.

Monica Collier in her vivacious Christmas Romance Novel, Pink, has me ready to wear a wool pencil skirt with a cashmere sweater as I assist my newfound friends in their efforts to expose evil, while taking time to delight in Christmas traditions, as they begin to trust love once more.”
Profile Image for Jeannie Chambers.
Author 2 books68 followers
October 28, 2021
This is a page turner that brought out all kinds of emotions. While it is a ‘sweet romance,’ it’s not too sugary sweet, Collier managed to pack in plenty of emotional passages, some spirituality, kindness and southern charm as well as some big city sizzle and run-for-your life guns-and-ammo covert action.
The characters seemed straight from central casting (in a good way) as I could see this book while reading and as a feature film.
Ethan is a heartthrob and his and Charlotte’s relationship kept my heart beating faster and faster.
The descriptive settings allow to be right there with them.
Don’t take my word for it. See it…I mean read it yourself.
Profile Image for Carleene  Hibbs Reeder.
902 reviews59 followers
December 7, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book.

There are so many things that I loved about this book, so let me start there. This book is a very cute romance following Charlotte Rose and Ethan Cooper. They have a mutual friend that wants to set them up together but fate intervenes and they meet all on their own. Both our main characters have suffered tragic losses of their spouses and both are still healing from the pain of the loss as well as the trauma surrounding the way their spouses died. This was a great romance for that. I liked that is was a romance of people a little older than typical and for different reasons than we normally find. There is a grumpy/sunshine theme going on as well. This is a book that is full of food as well. It is set during the holiday season starting with Thanksgiving and moving through to the New Year. So it isn't all about Christmas.

The rest of the book fell flat for me. It felt like it was a little long at times and that there was too much put into it. Charlotte is a super genius and for me she came off as a know it all. I liked her but that part was a turn off for me. I feel like she would have been better if she had one thing she was good at and not a million things. I also got tired of some the same things being repeated. I know she had brown eyes because I read that over and over again. I know that she was a tall blond because I read that over and over again. She wore her signature color of pink and he wore his of grey. I did like the relationship between them, I thought it was very sweet and made sense for them to be together. I wish there would have been more of that and less of the terrorist/national security drama. I did not care for that part of the story.

Overall, I think it was a good book. It wasn't something I would read again. It was a clean romance though and I do appreciate that.
216 reviews13 followers
October 8, 2021
Make yourself a delicious cup of hot chocolate or pour a nice glass of bourbon and snuggle up with Pink: A Christmas Romance Novel by Monica Collier!

Charlotte is a mechanical engineer and a stationary designer with a penchant for pink, especially when it comes to her wardrobe, and an aversion to loud noises. Ethan is a high-powered corporate attorney with an affinity for bourbon and a disdain for Christmas music, especially when it’s playing before Thanksgiving. When a serendipitous encounter in New York City brings them together, they learn to let down their guards and truly live again.

Charlotte was amazing, brilliant, and kind, and Ethan was charming, intelligent, and caring. It was delightful to follow them along their journey as they explored NYC, enjoyed their holiday traditions, opened up to one another, and shared so many delicious meals. The delectable descriptions of the food and drinks made my mouth water! I’ve never had sweet potato pie, but I would try Charlotte’s in a heartbeat!

Charlotte and Ethan were so corny and I loved it, but I was pleasantly surprised that this wasn’t just a sweet romance story. Although there were tender moments, the characters experienced many emotional and serious challenges, including loss, grief, PTSD, physical impairment, and even terrorism. I was rooting for Charlotte and Ethan to embrace love while simultaneously cheering them on in their quest to take down racketeering terrorists! The suspense and action added an intriguing and exciting layer to this story!

I truly adored this beautiful novel about two good, decent people who have suffered tragedy and loss finding love again.

“Love comes when we’re not looking for it sometimes.”

*I received a gifted ARC from the author through Kate Rock Book Tours. Thank you! All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Debbie Rozier.
1,365 reviews90 followers
October 16, 2021
The cover says this book is a Christmas Romance novel but this book has way more to it than just a holiday romance!

First of all before I talk about the book, I just want everyone to know I want to be the main character, Charlotte Rose. She is confident, kind, honest, brave, and full of faith. She is also brilliant and is like a female MacGyver making gadgets to scramble signals and light gas logs during a snow storm.

Back to the more than romance part. This book crosses genres and has plenty of action and suspense. We have terrorists, gang members, assassins, and crooked NYC cops so don’t let that sweet pink cover fool you.

I don’t want to say too much but the title is perfect and I love the way the title color word is cleverly used throughout the read.

Finally, Charlotte and Ethan (who is our other main character) have both lost spouses tragically. I love the way that the book has the open communication between the two main characters about the love and loss they felt for their spouses.

About the Book

Charlotte Rose is the President of a company that is a defense contractor but is ready to let her brother take over and take her stationary design company storefront.

When she goes to New York City to visit her friend Racheal and look for property to open her business, she meets Racheal’s boss, lawyer Ethan Cooper.

Charlotte and Ethan become involved in an operation to take down a few bad guys including the man who murdered Ethan’s wife.

Charlotte and Ethan both find there may be a place in their hearts for new love after loss.
Profile Image for Denise Marie.
Author 1 book25 followers
March 15, 2022
Pink: A Christmas Romance by Monica Collier

This sweet holiday romance took me on a journey that was quite unique and unexpected.

By looking at the cover with its feeling of nostalgia and its soft colors, it leads you to believe you'll be experiencing a wonderfully peaceful stroll through the snow covered streets, a romantic evening in front of a crackling fire, and romance that will touch the heart with its cozy and ever present feeling with the magic of love during the holidays. Pink is not that story - its much more...

With mystery, suspenseful situations, plenty of action, romantic sparks and loss, Pink is a story that I enjoyed during this special time of year along with the added elements of faith, hope and yes, humor that tied it all together.

The characters are written as strong and convincing, and as the layers begin to fall away, most human~ each with their own uniqueness, and a heartbeat all their own.

I do have to say, certain aspects of the story gave way to bit of distraction and a touch of confusion for me early on, but as a whole, I found it to be a good read due to the descriptive settings and its blending of genres that led to a story filled with emotion.

I thank the author for my personal copy of Pink, a story that was most surprising.

4 Stars

#Pink
#MonicaCollier
#RedPressCo

Wild Sage Book Blog
Profile Image for Sarah.
2,071 reviews
September 30, 2021
This looks like just a light and fluffy romance but there are other works at play!

Charlotte goes to New York to visit with her friend Rachael and to scout out a possible location for her stationary shop. She meets Ethan (who Rachael had hoped to introduce them first) when Rachael can't get out of meetings. Charlotte and Ethan find a mutual friendship through the loss of each other's spouses. Then Charlotte uncovers (while looking at spaces to rent) inadvertently a possible terrorist cell at play.

I thought the book was a little bit longer than it maybe could have been. Charlotte is very capable and smart but at times maybe seemed too smart and put together. Maybe it's because she's well established in her military career and in her 40s but I wish I had seen more vulnerability in her like I felt we saw on Ethan.

The romance is a very slow burn and when they get together it's very sweet and closed door type of romance.
279 reviews6 followers
October 22, 2021
New release from Monica Collier, and although it's labeled as a Christmas book, I think it's more of a romance and suspense, with Christmas providing the background. High power attorney Ethan Cooper lives in NYC, but has family roots in Charleston, NC. Charlotte Rose is a part-time stationery designer who also works for her family's business in Franklin, NC, which provides technical support to the military and others. When Charlotte travels to NYC to scope out a potential location for her stationery shop, she meets Ethan through her friend Rachael, who works for Ethan's firm. When a client comes to the firm with troubling news, they all join forces to uncover a dangerous racketeering gang. This is an enjoyable read, with the plot moving along at a good pace. I do wish the author had included notes at the back, detailing how she knew so much about the intelligence and technical parts of the story - they were fascinating! Thanks to the author for a copy of this book!
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
990 reviews22 followers
October 11, 2021
Head to New York City with Charlotte "Pink" Rose as she navigates her next phase of life during the holiday season! I love the idea of the holidays in NYC although I have only been one time but Monica Collier captured the magic of it. I was immediately immersed into Charlotte's, Rachel's and Ethan's lives! This was not your typical holiday romance as these three embark on an investigation and find themselves in some suspenseful situations. There were many moments that also had me giggling such as the bacon scene. I loved this book and am sad to be leaving them as it feels like I am saying "goodbye" to friends. This book came at just the right time to get myself in the mood for the holidays!

Thank you to Monica Collier and KateRockBookTours for an advance copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Sidney.
210 reviews8 followers
July 25, 2021
I revived an ARC of this copy for an honest review. Pink was a cute romance novel laced with a terriorism threat in NYC. The storyline was constantly moving with a lot of characters which sometimes made it hard to keep in mind who was who. Since there was so much going on, I would have liked a little more background info. on certain people and situations (I believe this is a follow up book so I would suggest reading the first ones).

I enjoyed Charlotte and Ethan’s relationship throughout the novel. It was nice to see them overcome their grief together. There’s a lot of character development for the main characters as well as some other ones which was great! If you enjoy military novels, I think you would enjoy this one!
65 reviews
August 15, 2021
There is a lot to like about Pink but, for me, the story did not do justice to the quality of the characters. Pink is primarily a romance with some elements of espionage intrigue thrown in.

Charlotte and Ethan both lost spouses in tragic circumstances. Neither high-powered professional is looking for romance, but fall for each other at first meeting. Most of the book focuses on their romance but there is not much depth to their story. The author, Monica Collier, tries to use the national intrigue in which they become involved to provide the suspense element in their relationship. However, that part of the book just doesn’t work well. It is not well enough developed and is resolved pretty quickly and routinely.

Still, it is an enjoyable read with a happy ending.
Profile Image for Our_readingjourney.
592 reviews8 followers
October 8, 2021
Pink is a Christmas Christian second chance romance.
I loved the blurb but as I started reading there were so many characters that I got confused and some parts felt boring and somewhere there was too much unnecessary description.
This book had a great female main character who was the hero of the book in the true sense .
On a trip to New York she is called in to help assist solve a crime which had connection to terrorism!! Though this part got easily sorted without too much drama and twists !!
The romance between the two main characters could hv been a little more highlighted.

T/w - Grief

3.5⭐

Thank you Netgalley ,author and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review
Profile Image for Cheryl.
6,625 reviews238 followers
October 19, 2021
This is a charming, sweet read. It did give me some holiday vibes. If anything else, it sure made me hungry with all the food that Charlotte was making. There is no "rubbery bacon" to be found in this book...crispy bacon all the way!

Charlotte and Ethan hit it off right away. They engaged with each other nicely. It was good that they did not share an "instalove". Not that I have anything against instalove but I just felt like it would not have worked or been as believable if Ethan and Charlotte had hit it off right away. Speaking of the romance, I thought that Ethan and Charlotte did share good chemistry.

While, I might not have loved this book, I did like it. I would read another book by this author.
Profile Image for tre be.
1,033 reviews130 followers
December 17, 2021
2.5 ⭐️

I saw this simple pretty pink cover and fell in love! I had to read it. Turns out it’s a Christian Romantic Suspense! Ok, ok, I like that!

The story was good. Ethan and Charlotte are widows, and meet during Charlotte’s New York visit to scout locations for her business. They had an instant connection over yummy sounding Southern foods. But, I’m sorry Ethan, I’m from the south and sugar 𝑑𝑜𝑒𝑠 go in cornbread (not grits tho 🤣)

It was very Hallmark-ish, without the steam, which is fine. I love sweet romantic movies I can watch with my family!

I liked the family and take it slow romantic aspects, but the “suspense” fell short. I liked the Thanksgiving dinner scene. I feel like there were some cozy, wintry vibes, but the Christmas feel was missing
Profile Image for Carol.
683 reviews22 followers
January 1, 2022
PINK is not a Hallmark Christmas story. It is so much more. Charlotte is a strong female character. She is smart, knows several languages, and is a mechanical Engineer. She goes to NY to visit her friend Racheal and look for a place to rent for her stationary shop.

Ethan is a high powered corporate attorney and Racheal's boss. A chance meeting at a restaurant brings Charlotte and Ethan together. They bond over the loss of their spouses. Both were killed by terrorists. Chstlottes husband Benjamin was killed in Isreal and Ethan's in New York.

One of Ethan's clients comes to him in fear his partner is hiding money and involved with a terrorist. With Charlotte's help in deciphering papers written in Farsi, they work with the Police to capture the terrorist that killed Ethans wife.
Profile Image for Kate Dorman.
142 reviews14 followers
July 27, 2021
I was drawn into Pink by Monica Collier based on the description of the story. However, once I started reading it was very difficult for me to finish. The story occurs during the holiday season in New York City. I did enjoy reading how Charlotte and Ethan overcame their losses, but the writing was wordy which made it difficult for me to want to finish. I did enjoy the character development that took place.

I recommend this to anyone looking for a sweet, holiday read that touches on topics of overcoming loss.

Wouldn't read this again but was happy to have had the opportunity to read it prior to its release in October.
Profile Image for Shannon.
439 reviews13 followers
October 25, 2021
Monica Collier knows how to weave an action-packed Christian romance that pulls out every emotion from the swoon worthy chemistry between Ethan Cooper and Charlotte Rose to the intense nail biting covert operation that provide readers with a brief cameo appearance of Capt. Blaine and her well-trained team.

Who says that love only comes around once in a life time? In Collier's latest novel, she reveals that sometimes the cure to a broken heart is simply a matter of finding the right person at the right time, who happens to understand those feelings--and someone who can appreciate the delicious flavors of a good bourbon and bacon.
Profile Image for Jamie Rutland.
Author 8 books718 followers
September 7, 2021
Oh my goodness! Monica Collier has written another wonderful book! I went through so many emotions reading this. No, it is not about "young love"...it is about "true love" and the path to finding it. Along with characters that I could relate to, she also covers many social and medical issues that often get overlooked in fiction writing. I enjoyed every minute of this book and I would recommend it to everyone. It was one that I was still thinking about days after I finished it. THAT is the sign of a wonderful read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.