Christmas Wishes and Cowboy Kisses Collection

by Christine Sterling, Liz Isaacson, Shanna Hatfield

Curl up with a cowboy this Christmas!
Ring in the holiday season with 23 heartwarming sweet contemporary romances from USA Today and Top 100 Kindle Unlimited All-Star bestselling authors!

Discover second chance romance, love at first sight, small-town Christmas cheer, swoony single dads, enemies to lovers, snowed-in with the cowboy, and many more stories featuring the cowboy next door. Fall in love with the hunky heroes of this limited-edition Christmas cowboy romance collection.

CHRISTMAS WISHES & COWBOY KISSES features brand new clean and wholesome romances by:

USA Today Bestselling Author Liz Isaacson
USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield
USA Today Bestselling Author Lacy Williams
USA Today Bestselling Author Carolyne Aarsen
USA Today Bestselling Author Melissa McClone
USA Today Bestselling Author Kit Morgan
USA Today Bestselling Author Laura Ashwood
Natalie Dean
Terri Lorah
Cynthia Woolf
Kathleen Ball
Macie St. James
Christina Butrum
Terri Grace
April Murdock
Hannah Jo Abbott
Amelia C. Adams
Josephine Blake
Heather Blanton
Catie Cahill
Parker J. Cole
RL Ashly
Christine Sterling

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Clean Romance, Contemporary Romance, Family, Anthologies, Contemporary

1990 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 25, 2022

About the author

USA TODAY bestselling author Christine Sterling loves immersing her readers in the small towns she’s created. Her inspirational stories feature humor, redemption, and romance, with themes of friendship, forgiveness, and fighting for the love you want.

She’s the author of over eighty romances, including the reader favorites, First Families of Flat River, and The Flat River Matchmaker series. She loves to create tight-knit families with strong family values, and you’ll often find that her characters cross over in many of her stories. Her readers describe her characters as old friends and her settings as places they would love to visit.

An empty nester, she lives with her husband and a menagerie of animals on a Pennsylvania farm. When she’s not writing, she can be found drinking tea, being judged by her cat, eating snacks, or napping.

Sign up for her newsletter and get a free book at www. flatrivernebraska. com

Reviews

[ItaPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love anthologies, they give the chance to know more authors, to have a sample of their writing and to also discover their previous works.

Christmas and Cowboys stories are my favourite tropes and their combination was a great and enjoyable experience.

The Christmas Tree Cowboy by Melissa McClone tells the sweet journey of Lyne and Cody.

After the fatal accident that killed Cody's parents he had to take care of the family's ranch and his little brothers. He had the help of a couple of collaborators, but when they asked some free time to spend Christmas with their kids and grandkids he couldn't deny it, so he looked for a new temporary housekeeper right away. Lyne arrived at the Rocking CT few weeks before Christmas and during her stay she fell in love with this chaotic family.
The author skillfully wrote the festive atmosphere, the characters kindness and love for each other.

I had a very good time in thie company of this book.

Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

[Kathy Heare Watts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Christmas Cowboy Billionaire by Cynthia Woolf
A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE

The story is a clean contemporary tale that will begin in New York City with Kay Donovan, an accountant, deciding to testify against her boss, Vincent ‘Vinnie’ Rizzo. It is after the death of her best friend, Julie, from drugs laced with fentanyl that has her deciding to do what is right. But Vinnie is out on bail immediately, which means her life is in danger. Her handler, Paul Morel, a U.S. Marshall, will contact his friend, Ryan Evers, in Montana to hide out until the trial.

The story will have life and death danger, as Ryan and Kaylie Smith, her new name, must stay vigilant in case of trouble—which comes their way. The story has the good, the bad, and the ugly of people. Two people will be brought together during a trying time, but they have a way of healing one another. The one thing that neither Ryan nor Kayli counted on happening was developing feelings for one another.

Kaylie: You’ll never get away with this, Vinnie. I’m your Waterloo.
Vinnie: Waterloo? What are you talking about? What’s a Waterloo?
Kaylie: You’re the most uneducated man I think I’ve ever known.
Vinnie: You shut up. One more word, and you won’t make it out of this car before we set it on fire.

Ryan: I’m here, Kaylie, and the police are here, too, along with an ambulance.
Kaylie: You came for me.
Ryan: Always.
Kaylie: I don’t think I can take any more of this, Ryan. I’ve discovered I don’t like being shot.

A Christmas Cowboy with a Joy-Filled Heart by Kathleen Ball
WISHING FOR A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE

I loved this second-chance romance between childhood sweethearts Joe Douglas and Iris Collins. Joe and Iris were also ranching neighbors, and everyone knew they cared for one another. But that doesn’t mean that people didn’t interfere in their relationship.

Joe’s dream was to be a singer in a band, and when it is time to leave and do that, he is warned to stay away from Iris—that it would be best to cut all ties with her, change his phone number, and don’t look back. When he does come to town or even call home to his brother, Mark, he is fed lies.
With a call from the bank that the family ranch has gone into foreclosure, it will have Joe driving in a Christmas blizzard to return home to try and save what his parents worked so hard for. But, before he can make it home, he crashes and is rescued by none other than Iris.

The story has secrets, lies, and being apart from those he loved. Joe has come back and is at the Collins ranch. Many things have changed, her father is gone, and the ranch is hanging on by a thread. Joe will meet the child, Carrie, that Iris had while he was gone, and she is a charming little girl that Joe takes to quickly. Six years later, and Joe still has feelings for Iris, but will she feel the same?

I loved the chemistry between Joe and Iris and how Carrie adds so much to this tale. While dealing with a blizzard, the three of them make the best of the situation. Things are going well between them, even with mishaps—and then Mark shows up.

The story is a clean contemporary western with a delightful cast of characters (well, most of them) and shows that even Christmas has miracles for adults. Best of all, the story does have the coveted happily ever after ending.

[Elaine Coghlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas Wishes and Cowboy Kisses:
My reviews are for two books.
Candy Canes & Cowboys is another great book from Macie st James. I have read some of her books and the more read the more I enjoy her writing style.
Candy Canes and Cowboys has a great storyline, the character work was fantastic and the book had a smooth flow to it. This was another great addition to the series and kept me entertained from beginning to end. The author has given us characters that we can care about. The story pulls you in and never lets go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.-I have also purchased the book :)

Christmas in Woodford Creek by Christina Butrum.
We are back in Woodford Creek for another fabulous time at the Dixon Ranch. we have Mama Dixon, and Aunt Fran, making an appearance. Elizabeth first from her divorce with her daughter Ellie headed over to Woodford Creek to stay with Kayla. Can the magic of Christmas work its way into Elizabeth's heart? Can the new cowboy up at Dixon Ranch find his HEA? Will Elizabeth and Ellie stay in Woodford Creek?
Christina has become one of my favorite authors her writing goes beyond words, The stories are written so well that they leave you believing that it's real. I was given a copy of Christina's story for my honest review.
I will be adding to this review once I have read the others in the book.

[Loraine · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a lengthy book of novellas with 20 in the collection, so I will be reading it piecemeal between other Christmas books. I want to focus this review on one particular novella that I really enjoyed.

Rating: 4
A Forgotten Heart by Heather Blanton

Burning Dress Ranch has recently been restored yet maintains the rustic feel that it has had for many, many years. Right now it is waiting for its new owners to arrive, but Arizona "Zona" Glover who is hiding from her wild and crime committing family and ex-husband decides it might be just the place to hide out as she tries to get her life on track after landing in prison due to one of the crimes her family pinned on her. But little does she know the town parson, Duke Rhinehart, is also the caretaker for the ranch. Will sparks fly or will Zona be unable to become the Christian woman she is meant to be?

Well written and realistic, this novella was a delightful Christmas read. I loved Zona's feistiness and strength, yet at the same time she was warmhearted and caring. She wanted to change herself from what she had been with her family and become a new person. Duke was exactly the right person to see the good in Zona and help her into a new path for her life. I was disappointed when the story came to an end, but was delighted to see the other books that could lead me to more about the characters. Great idea to satisfy a reader who didn't want this story to end.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is for Candy Canes and Cowboys by Macie St. James
This is a sweet and clean romance with strong characters in Poppy and Christian. They have an instant connection when she arrives at his ranch to scout for a TV movie production company. His ranch has fallen on hard times and he hopes to have them choose it for their productions. Along the way they grow close and fall in love. It's a short story, moves quickly and smoothly and is an enjoyable read.

This review is for A Christmas Cowboy With A Joy Filled Heart by Kathleen Ball
This is a second chance Christmas romance with strong characters and an interesting storyline. The author brings high school sweethearts Joe and Iris back together when she rescues him after he crashes in a blizzard. She does a great job building their story and packs a ton of emotions as secrets are brought out. They realize the chemistry is still there as they deal with being stranded together during the storm. It's well written, moves quickly and smoothly and is a great Christmas romance.


I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

When it comes to holiday reading, one can always be assured to find enjoyment in a Western romance. Whether it is taking gingerbread to a grumpy cowboy or going undercover in the witness protection program, there is always something for everyone. I think one of the reasons that I enjoy this type of novel is that the heroes are protective, the females are generally resourceful and there is no place for artifice or suave sophistication. I have read most of the novellas in this collection and have enjoyed every one. I received a copy of this anthology as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Mary Willard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Best story of all was Her Christmas Cowboy Billionaire, great sorry line, edge of your seat with a happy ending. Special mention to my other faves The Cowboy’s Christmas Bride, Christmas in Woodford Creek, Candy Canes and Cowboys, and Let it Snow Cowboy. Some are first of series that I’ll be looking into. Gotta say, some I didn’t get past the first page. One is logged through. You decide. Most have excellent characters and don’t forget to have a hanky handy for those Cheistmassy tear jerkers.

[Delbora · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't like anthologies but this is a fantastic literary book!! I enjoyed each story included by the various authors! I only slept periodically determined to get through this book and then I was so disappointed when I found I had finished it!! Kudos to all of the authors!!!

[Cali Jewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Could not put down this awesome collection of small-town heartwarming holiday goodness. Adored each emotionally thrilling and action-packed journey filled with witty and engaging charters, some with heart racing twists and all with undeniable passion. Highly entertaining collection.

[Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun, enjoyable winter holiday romance that will sweep you off your feet. You love getting to know the characters and feel like you've known them for years. a great addition to this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jeanie Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving it so much. Naturally started with Shanna Hatfield's novella followed by Melissa McClone but this anthology is going to cost me way too much because I am now addicted to even more authors! Awesome collections.

[Paula Genereau · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved tge story by Christina Butrum. She's such a good author and knows how to make you fall in love with the words in her stories. One of my favorite stories by her.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gift of Gingerbread [Shiloh Ridge Ranch in Three Rivers bk 0.5] Liz Isaacson
I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Zona Glover lives on the family ranch with her mother. She has a new rather surly neighbor on the next door ranch – Duke Rinehart. As they become friends they learn each other’s quirks, but Duke has a secret that could make a difference. The plot of this book includes past mistakes, people who have changed, and love. A great read that fills in some information not in the rest of the series.
Taming Christmas – Shanna Harfield
Bull rider Huck is only concerned about Bull Riding and the championship until he meets Mara who is only concerned about her career and job advancement. The only thing is they can’t forget about each other, and each time they meet the feeling grows. A Heartwarming book.
The Cowboy’s Last Mistletoe Kiss – Lacy Williams
Chef Cora works at the local restaurant, and inherited a ranch, but she must pay off the mortgage quickly. Neighbor and friend, Wit was once her boyfriend, and after their breakup left the area as a freelance photographer. He’s back at his twin brother’s request to cover for his brother’s vacation. Wit comes up with the idea for a pop up Christmas tree Farm in order to pay off the mortgage. An uplifting story.
The Cowboy’s Christmas Surprise – Carolyne Aarsen
Asher Chastain’s father has requested he come home for Christmas. His brother’s widow, Brielle and her young son are home but not his father who he learns has end stage cancer. Brielle had been engaged to Asher prior to marrying his brother. An interesting book full of secrets and hard topics. A great read.
The Christmas Tree Cowboy – Melissa McClone
Lyne Braum is working on a ranch after her father, step mother and step siblings left town with no forwarding address. Her current boss asked her to work for a friend over Christmas. Cody Tennyson owns the ranch where she will be working, but she had met him years ago on the rodeo circuit and he didn’t remember her. She finds she likes the ranch and the family she’s helping. A tender hearted book.
Mistletoe Rodeo – Kit Morgan
Buck Jensen is babysitting for his sister’s children when he breaks his leg. Mara Pierce, a nurse and good friend of Buck’s sister steps in to help take care of Buck and the children. The children put mistletoe all over the house in hopes of getting the two of them together, but their past relationship is a hindrance. An uplifting book.
Blame it on Mistletoe – Laura Ashwood
Hope Callahan is unjustly fired from her job just before her best friend’s wedding. She hasn’t been in Mistletoe since her parents deaths. Luke McBride runs the family ranch, but needs help because the ranch is in trouble. Hope is able to help put together a business plan for changes to the ranch so Luke is able to obtain a loan. A touching story.
Christmas at Miller Ranch – Natalie Dean
James Touhey had been an occupational therapy patient of Katrine but hadn’t seen her in some time when he and his nieces and nephew encountered her son. They ended up on several outings together and the children got along great. As their relationship progressed, both of them grew and helped the other. A great story!
A Cowboy for Christmas – Terri Lorah
Isabel Roosevelt returns to Pistol Ridge after Calvin’s father died. His will left them with a task to complete in order to receive the inheritance. They had to find the descendants of his ancestors who had jointly owned a resort and right a mistake. Isabel is now an interior designer and has ideas to bring the resort back to its former glory. A heartwarming story.
The Cowboy and Mrs. Claus – Christine Sterling
Dr. Clara Honeycomb and her grandfather dressed up as Santa and Mrs. Claus and visited the hospital. Dylan Knight had his daughter through the Christmas holiday. After she was in an accident, they encountered the doctor who treated her stuck in a snowbank and rescued her. Because of the snowstorm, she stayed at Dylan’s ranch a few days and the two became friends. An uplifting Christmas story.
Her Christmas Cowboy Billionaire – Cynthia Woolf
Kaylie Smith was in the WitSac program and being protected by billionaire Ryan Evers, former Navy Seal and CIA operative. She was working as his housekeeper and cook and hiding from her former boss who was a drug lord. She was scheduled to testify against him at his trial. Kaylie finds she really likes the ranch rather than the city, and especially her boss. An intriguing book.
A Christmas Cowboy with a Joy Filled Heart – Kathleen Ball
Joe Douglas has just left the music scene and found out his brother is losing their family ranch. He’s driving back home when he encounters a snow storm and gets stuck in a snow bank near the ranch belonging to his former girlfriend, Iris Collins. She comes to his rescue and he ends up staying with her during the storm and power outage. A touching story about families, past mistakes, and making amends.
Candy Canes and Cowboys – Macie St. James
Poppy Webster is a scout looking for a place for Sugar Cookie Productions to film their Christmas movies. She comes across Canyon Creek Ranch owned by Christian Snow. The place isn’t in the best of shape, but Christian convinces her to stay the weekend and she helps him spruce things up and they form an attachment. He needs the money from the filming to save his ranch from foreclosure. An uplifting story by Macie St. James.
Christmas in Woodford Creek – Christina Butrum
Recently divorced and without a job, Elizabeth Baker and her young daughter go to visit a friend in Woodford Creek for Christmas. There she meets Kip Jacobs, a ranch hand at a neighboring ranch. As the holidays progress, she begins to fall for the cowboy and decides to stay in the area. A story about second chances.
The Cowboy’s Christmas Bride – Terri Grace
When Barbara Milton’s fiancé’s family rejects her and she finds him with someone else, she goes to live with her Aunt. While there, she meets rancher Abner Randolph and ends up marrying him. His mother thinks he married beneath himself, and treats her badly. This story is one of redemption and restoration.
A Christmas Kiss for the Cowboy – April Murdock
Felicity Duncan has had a crush on Jack Taylor for years, and followed his rodeo career. When she is matched with him at her cousin’s wedding, they hit it off and she ends up staying for Christmas so they can figure out if a relationship will work between them. A story about choices and working together.
The Cowboy’s Christmas Promise – Hannah Jo Abbott
Amelia Jarrett and Riley Kennemer had broken up two years ago, but when she falls from her horse and hits her head, he is the person she wants to see. Her parents convince him to go along with her to keep her calm, but he has reservations and doesn’t want to be hurt again. A heartwarming story of second chances and making choices.
Cowboy Claus – Amelia C. Adams
When Jeff Gardner agrees to fill in as Santa for his uncle who is in the hospital, he didn’t know he’d be working with Kelli Moore. She isn’t too happy that he doesn’t show up until the last minute. As they work together, and she sees he can handle the children, they become closer. A heartwarming book about mistaken ideas and acceptance.
Let It Snow, Cowboy – Josephine Blake
Lucy Bennett has a seasonal items store, and on the way home one evening, she finds Daniel Moore passed out on the sidewalk. She gives him a ride to her house for the night, and the next day he takes her out to repay her. She had a crush on him in High School, but isn’t interested in dating a drunk. As he shows her he isn’t a drunk, they got to know each other and like what they see. An uplifting book.
A Forgotten Heart – Heather Blanton
Fresh out of prison and running away from her family to avoid more crime, she learns a historic ranch house will be vacant over Christmas so she moves in claiming to be the photographer from Architecture Digest. The ranch caretaker, Nathan Reeves, the local pastor confronts her and allows her to stay. As they become acquainted, they fall for each other but she doesn’t think she deserves him. Their story mirrors the history of the ranch and she is accepted by the community. A great story about acceptance and forgiveness.
A Bent Creek Christmas – Harker Brothers Ranch bk 1 - Catie Cahill
Gabe Creason hasn’t been back to his hometown in years, but is sent there to get the owner of a particular piece of property to sell it to his company. The owner of the property is none other than Marybeth Noble, daughter of the neighboring family who sent his father to prison. He finds as he interacts with her that he can’t make her sign the papers, and that he’s falling for her. She had a crush on him in school, and it’s resurfacing. An engaging book with great personal interactions among the characters. Well worth the read.
A Holly Jolly Cowboy – Parker J. Cole
Julian Caldwell is a business executive who goes to a ranch for a couple weeks to be a cowboy since he’s always wanted to be one. Lorissa Rhinehart left her job as an interior designer to run her family horse ranch when her father had health problems. The ranch is in trouble and medical bills are mounting so she decides to invite rich executives to come pretend to be cowboys for a few weeks. While Julian is there, several things happen to make things on the ranch worse, and he helps her find the cause because he cares for her. A touching story about love and overcoming the odds.
Harvey’s Christmas Catastrophe – R.L. Ashly
Zella Stone just moved to Aberdare, Colorado and is welcomed by Liam Henry’s friendly bull named Harvey who caused damage to her house and restaurant. She has a Vegetarian restaurant across the street from Liam’s son’s Steakhouse restaurant which sets off burger wars between the two. Liam and Zella work together on a joint float for the Christmas parade, and other events. An uplifting Christmas story featuring acceptance of other’s views and working together.

[T Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it,
Really good Christmas reads.
such Adorable couples.
I'm not a big Christmas theme reader but this was an enjoyable read!

[Sherrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not normally read many contemporary books, however this one is an exception. These stories are heart warming, dealing with real issues, and all about love. You can pick up this book and be assured you will be entertained fully. Such a joy to read!

[Cecly Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enjoyable read from the pen of Marcie St James. Once more we were treated to wonderful characters and a well-woven plot that takes the reader into the true meaning of Christmas, infusing the narrative with joy and happiness, the hallmarks of the season.

[Sandra Sorola · Rating 5 out of 5]

So far I have read Kathleen Ball's story, Christine Sterling's story, Parker J. Cole's story and Terri Lorah's story. I have to say I am loving this collection. Each story is different and each story is packed with emotion! You are going to love this collection!

[Peni · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please see individual stories for review.

[Tonya Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredible Christmas story. Taming Christmas by Shanna Hatfield is such an inspiring Rodeo Christmas book.
It truly put me in the spirit of Christmas. Huck and Mara stole my heart and wrapped it up in a beautiful wrapped package.
Shanna truly has a gift of writing such romantic books that stand the test of time.

[Margie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun and romance filled collection. I can admit I have added several books to my TBR list and am looking forward to the start of several new series. The stories are short enough to be able to read one or two of them when your time is short or you can just start at the beginning and read straight through. There is plenty of romance, humor and surprises for everyone.

THE GIFT OF GINGERBREAD (Liz Isaacson) – Having read the Shiloh Ridge Ranch series it was good to get Arizona and Duke’s story. Forgiveness is a wonderful thing and the hardest to do is to forgive ourselves.
TAMING CHRISTMAS (Shana Hatfield) – I love rodeo cowboys and Huck and Mara won my heart. I will now read the rodeo series Shana Hatfield has. I love her characters and story lines.
THE COWBOY’S LAST MISTLETOE KISS (Lacy Williams) – Some loves are just meant to be. Ten years is a long time to be apart and have instant re-ignition. Wit might have fooled Cora at first into thinking he was his twin but the sparks couldn’t be hid. I enjoyed this story enough that I borrowed His Small Town Girl and plan to visit Sutter’s Hollow again.
A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS SURPRISE (Carolyn Aarsen) – A wonderful story of betrayal and forgiveness. Charles is hard to understand and only his terminal illness has him reaching out. Made me think about the true meaning of Christmas.
THE CHRISTMAS TREE COWBOY (Melissa McClone) – I enjoyed this story. Lyne has had a hard life, but things have been better with her job at the Bar V5. Then she is asked to help out a friend of her boss. She is brought face to face with the cowboy who had broken her 16 year old heart. Lesson that all is not what it seems.
MISTLETOE RODEO (Kit Morgan) – Who how dangerous and wonderful a pink convertible could be. A rekindled romance, a broken leg, humor, two precocious little girls, lots of mistletoe, all unite to make a fun story. Oh, add in a want-to-be girlfriend. This is an enjoyable story.
BLAME IT ON THE MISTLETOE (Laura Ashwood) – Hope’s holiday season starts by being unjustly fired. Then helping to plan her best friend’s wedding send her back to Mistletoe for the first time in over a decade. Not only does she have the skills and education to pull of Nicole’s wedding in 5 weeks but also the skills to help save the McBride ranch. Can Luke accept she is not the same as his former fiancée? I enjoyed this story.
CHRISTMAS AT MILLER RANCH (Natalie Dean) - Ok I’m still getting my mind around rolling, cutting, baking and icing half a dozen batches of gingerbread cookies. Katrine and James were both going to have problems adjusting to the change in their roles. I love the Miller family and they are exactly who Katrine and Remy need.
A COWBOY FOR CHRISTMAS (Terri Lorah) - A new to me author but I am looking forward to the upcoming series. Calvin’s father may have wanted to right a long past wrong, but I have to wonder if he also hoped to reunite Calvin and Isabel. Pride makes poor companionship.
THE COWBOY AND MRS. CLAUS (Christine Sterling) – Even in this short story, Christine Sterling does her usual masterful job of drawing you into the story and giving you strong characters. I look forward to learning more about the Knights next year.
HER CHRISTMAS COWBOY BILLIONAIRE (Cynthia Woolf) – I always look forward to a Cynthia Woolf book. I know there will be excitement, danger and heart topping action, even in this short story. As strong as her male characters are, she never makes her female characters weak. She even manages to sneak in a few surprises.
A CHRISTMAS COWBOY WITH A JOY FILLED HEART (Kathleen Ball) – There is nothing much worse for a romance than well-intentioned and at times mal-intentioned interference. Joe and Iris had some of both, at least I’m going to try to credit her father with good intentions since he’s no longer around to defend himself. I love all the attention Joe is able to show for Carrie and Iris. Good story.
CANDY CANES AND COWBOYS (Macie St. James) – Macie St. James makes living in a really small town very appealing. Poppy holds the keys to Christian being able to save his family ranch and his happily ever after. I’ve already borrowed Book 1.
CHRISTMAS IN WOODFORD CREEK (Christina Butrum) – I enjoyed this story. Christina Butrum weaves a good story with romance and humor. Divorce is hard on everyone especially young children. Ellie is a sweet little girl and quickly captures everyone’s heart. Kip and Elizabeth have to work a bit harder.
THE COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS BRIDE (Terri Grace) – I enjoyed this story of a family coming together. First Abner had to understand what Genesis 2:24 means when it stays to leave your father and mother. He almost loses Barbara by failing to value her. He has a hard lesson to learn.
A CHRISTMAS KISS FOR THE COWBOY (April Murdock) – I have enjoyed all the books in the Duncan family series and this one contains April Murdock’s signature romance, humor, family values and just plain fun. I look forward to seeing what she has next for us.
THE COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS PROMISE (Hannah Jo Abbott) – Hannah Jo Abbott gives us a story of second chances. The story has romance, humor and a few twists. I look forward to reading the series set in Shelby Springs.
COWBOY CLAUS (Amelia C. Adams) – A wonderful second chance romance and a do-over with a chance of doing it right. Will Jeff get it right this time? Even though short a fun story.
LET IT SNOW, COWBOY (Josephine Blake) - Josephine Blake gives us a story that shows the importance of what we speak, the power in words. I loved this sweet story.
A FORGOTTEN HEART (Heather Blanton) – Darcy just needs a break, well, she also needs Jesus but that will be Nathan’s job. I enjoyed this story.
A BENT CREEK CHRISTMAS (Catie Cahill) – A good start to a new series. This author has a way of capturing your attention and keeping it. Everyone needs a little Christmas cheer.
A HOLLY JOLLY COWBOY (Parker J. Cole) – I always enjoy a Parker J. Cole story. Although written from a particular ethnic point of view she proves that people are more alike than some realize. Change the character descriptions and the rest of the story could still be the same. This was a fun story with a few surprises.
HARVEY’S CHRISTMAS CASTASTROPHE (R. L. Ashly) – A fun story. Imagine a bull as a matchmaker for an unlikely pair. I am looking forward to the rest of the stories in 2023.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Gift of Gingerbread
Liz Isaacson
This is a sweet book about love and forgiveness. Duke’s family and Arizona or ‘Zona’ had been close at one time. I was glad that Duke came back to his family home after being gone for so long. Duke had some issues about his family that he had to come to terms with. I think Duke fell a little in love with Arizona when she brought him some cookies to welcome him. It was nice to see Duke coming back to the Lord. Duke had a secret that was eating at him and was afraid Arizona would not want anything to do with him. Forgiveness is a strong healer. I encourage you to read the book.

Taming Christmas
Shanna Hatfield

The Cowboy’s Last Mistletoe Kiss
Lacy Williams

The Cowboy’s Christmas Surprise
Carolyne Aarsen


The Christmas Tree Cowboy
Melissa McClone


Mistletoe Rodeo
Kit Morgan


Blame it on Mistletoe
Laura Ashwood
This was a sweet romance story. Hope had lost her parents in a road accident in Mistletoe, MN on Christmas Eve when she was 15. Since then she lived in her older sister’s basement in Chicago. I was happy to see that Hope and her sister were so close. I was so mad when her boss fired her in Chicago especially since he didn’t believe what she said. It was a God send that her childhood best friend was going to be married on Christmas Eve in Mistletoe, and asked Hope to come out now to help her get ready since she was so organized. Luke was her best friend’s brother who Hope had a crush on when she was younger. I was glad Luke had broken up with his fiancé a while ago after I heard how she was. Hope loved helping Luke to plan on turning their ranch into a destination ranch. I was wonderful watching the two have so much fun. Then outside forces came into play. I enjoyed this book and encourage you to read it.

Christmas at Miller Ranch
Natalie Dean


A Cowboy for Christmas
Terri Lorah

The Cowboy and Mrs. Clause
Christine Sterling


Her Christmas Cowboy Billionaire
Cynthia Woolf
Ms. Woolf is one of my favorite writers. Kay worked for Rizzo who was a mobster. She was heartbroken when she found out that her best friend died from a drug she had bought from one of Rizzo’s guys. Kay is ready to testify against him to put him in prison. She goes to Montana on Ryan Evers (who is a billionaire) and with a new name of Kaylie Smith. I was so glad Ryan was an ex seal and ex CIA agent who was able to protect her. I enjoyed watching the two fall in love. Something terrible happens that kept me on the edge of my seat. I strongly encourage you to read this book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

A Christmas Cowboy with a Joy Filled Heart
Kathleen Ball


Candy Canes and Cowboys
Marcie St. James

Christmas in Woodford Creek
Christina Butrum


The Cowboy’s Christmas Bride
Terri Grace


A Christmas Kiss for the Cowboy
April Murdock


The Cowboy’s Christmas Promise
Hannah Jo Abbott


Cowboy Clause
Amelia C Adams


Let is Snow Cowboy
Josephine Blake


A Forgotten Heart
Heather Blanton


A Bent Creek Christmas
Catie Cahill


A Holly Jolly Cowboy
Parker J Cole


Harvey’s Christmas Catastrophe
RL Ashly

This anthology has so many sweet books in it. I didn’t have time to read them all, but encourage you to get this anthology. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Jan Niblock · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are 23 stories in this anthology and I have only read 13 so far. I will get to the others at a later date but need to stop for now. Reading this was like watching the Hallmark Holiday movies, so sweet and fun to read.

The Gift of Gingerbread -- Liz Isaacson
Totally enjoyed reading more of the Glover family. I think Arizona’s story was really a good one. I don’t think the accepting of Duke would have worked as well if Bear had not had fallen in love himself. But this story is full of repentance, forgiveness and just plain love.

Taming Christmas -- Shanna Hatfield
What a fun story and how it is easy to make a bad first impression but recover from it. Huck and Mara are so different and yet there is a connection. I really liked how the story started with their lives together and then you get the back story on how they ended up together.

The Cowboy’s Last Mistletoe Kiss -- Lacy Williams
Funny how no matter how far you travel, if your heart is at home, you will end up there. That was what I loved about this story because it was exactly what happened to Wit and Cora.

The Cowboy’s Christmas Surprise -- Carolyne Aarsen
I really enjoyed this story and it certainly shows what happens when people interfere where they do not belong. Asher and Brielle spent many years living with anger that they should not have had to do. But in this case, guilt might make things turn out better. It was a fast read that kept me from putting the book down.

The Christmas Tree Cowboy -- Melissa McClone
Lyne was called and treated like Cinderella by her own family. Her Fairy Godmother was not a woman but came in the form of 5 men and boys. What a heartwarming story and well worth reading.

Mistletoe Rodeo -- Kit Morgan
A fun story of 2 ex-lovers and 2 nieces that have decided to become matchmakers. Mistletoe plays a big part in this story and it was a fun one to read.

Blaine it on Mistletoe -- Laura Ashwood
A cute story that restores your faith in mankind.

Christmas at Miller Ranch -- Natalie Dean
Interesting story and it shows that even when the worse can happen to you it is not the end. I really liked Katrine and James’s story. I guess there is more of the backstory somewhere else, but it did not take away from this story.

A Cowboy for Christmas -- Terri Lorah
Calvin and Isabel’s story is a bit different but, in a way, the same as others in this anthology. What I totally enjoyed was the fact that the story was part mystery.

The Cowboy and Mrs. Claus -- Christine Sterling
Who would have thought a visit to the ER would bring about such a sweet story and happy ending.

Her Christmas Cowboy Billionaire -- Cynthia Woolf
Kay (Kaylie) had a great job in NY until she didn’t and found herself being the cook and housekeeper to Ryan in Montana. This story was fast paced and it truly shows what corruption does when those corrupt people have power.

A Christmas Cowboy with a Joy Filled Heart -- Kathleen Ball
A story about what happens when people lie but those who were told the lie do not bother to fact check it. This is a similar theme to another story but it has different twists and loved the ending.

Candy Canes and Cowboys -- Marie St. James
A sweet story and I love all that Christmas themes are entwined especially in the names.

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

I love a good Christmas anthology by authors that I enjoy throughout the year (or I should say, years). Christmas Wishes and Cowboy Kisses is one that you may want to consider this Christmas season. I didn’t find one single story that I didn’t enjoy. Of course, I loved some more than others but I certainly was entertained by each and every one of these stories.

For the sake of space and review commitments, let me tell you a bit about two of these stories with the hope that you’ll go check them all out soon.

—♥— Candy Canes and Cowboys by Marcie St. James —♥—

I loved this series starter for the Lights, Camera, Christmas! series. Poppy is out searching for the perfect location for a movie production and comes across a very rundown ranch. When the owner, Christian, shows their attraction is obvious even though Christian has become somewhat hermit-like since his wife’s death. What follows is a sweet Christmas romance full of possibilities and second chances – and the fun of watching two people fall in love. It’s a quick read, but a completely enjoyable one.

—♥— Christmas Cowboy’s Joy-Filled Heart by Kathleen Ball —♥—

This story is a bit bitter-sweet but eventually, there will be a wonderful happily ever after for Joe and Iris. There was a time when they were a couple with a future ahead of them but they were also young… young enough that Iris’ father was able to separate them for years. Now that Joe is back home he’s discovered that Iris is still here – with her young daughter. Joe has questions, but he also is hoping to bring the woman he never stopped loving back into his life forever. Another quick read with lovable characters (for the most part) and a couple that really does obviously belong together.

If you love a good Christmas Romance but don’t have a lot of time to spare then this anthology would be perfect as you can dive in for a quick read and come back for more later.

*I received an e-ARC of each novella from the author or author’s team via Booksprout. The opinions expressed in this review are my own -good, bad, or indifferent.*

[Stox4story · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christian Gets His Second Chance in Candy Canes and Cowboys


After that kiss things would never be the same …

… “When she pulled away, he would swear he saw tears in her eyes, but she didn’t allow him to get a good look. Instead, she rushed around him and out the door.” …


Life had not been kind to Christian Snow. The only father he ever really knew died in a car crash and not that long after, his mother died too. He’s sure a broken heart contributed to her death. And if that wasn’t bad enough, Christian’s young wife died of an undetected heart issue three years earlier.

It’s no wonder the ranch he and his two brothers inherited was run down. The two brothers took off and left everything on Christian’s shoulders. His plumbing business was his bread and butter but didn’t provide enough to maintain the ranch, the place where all childhood memories were made, where he brought his wife after saying ‘I Do’, the place he lives today. And now it’s very likely he’s going to lose it as the bank is calling.

But maybe, just maybe, he’ll get a miracle, an early Christmas present. A Hollywood film company is looking for a ranch to shoot their Christmas movies and the ranch is being considered. But there’s competition and Christian’s ranch needs a lot of help. No way it would be chosen in this current state.

Then help comes in the name of Poppy. She’s there to take pictures for the film company. I won’t say it’s love at first sight but it sure is attraction at first sight. She decides to stick around and spruce the ranch up to make it ‘picture perfect’. And the rest is history, or should I say the rest is the future since this is the prequel to this Christmas romance series. Sugar Cookie Productions wants Snowy Canyon Ranch as the setting for their movies. Soooo, the ranch got it’s miracle.

Looks like love is in the air, on camera and behind the scenes. Poppy gets to go to the ranch as liaison. And speaking of Poppy and Christian, there’s a lot to work out but if you like HEA endings, you’ll like this.

[Amanda Marlowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Christmas Cowboy With a Joy Filled Heart - Kathleen Ball
Joe has had enough of life on the road touring, he's come home, but the weather is atrocious and he drives into a snowbank. Who should rescue him but his first love, Iris, who's now a single mother, who is the father?
Joe had wanted to stay with Iris but her father made him leave.
Will Iris understand? Will Joe get a second chance?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A great Christmas read.

Her Christmas Cowboy Billionaire Cynthia Woolf
Kay has gone into witness protection after giving the police details of her boss' drug dealing etc, she was his accountant. She's sent to Montana as a cook on Ryan's ranch. She has feelings for him but doesn't want to accept them as she doesn't know what's going to happen after the case. Ryan also has feelings for her. Then her boss, Vinnie, finds out where she is. Is she safe? Will he kill her? Will he kill Ryan?
A great romantic suspense from Cynthia

The Gift of Gingerbread Liz Isaacson
Arizona lives with her mother on the family ranch. She trains the horses and helps out where needed.
Duke has come back home, to the ranch next door, to help his father out, he's been away a long time. He has a secret which he needs to share with Zona, but he's worried that dhell break up with him, or look at him differently.
Another good read in the series from Liz

Taming Christmas Shanna Hatfield
Huck and Mara meet at a rodeo, but Huck has a head injury and his friend put vodka in his drink, and his medicine and alcohol don't mix well. Weeks later they meet again and go for coffee and lunch, even though Mara thinks she should be saying no.
They spend time together but when the rodeo ends they go their separate ways.
Will they meet again?

The Cowboy's Last Mistletoe Kiss Lacy Williams
Coral and Si are good friends, they've known each other years. But it was Wit, Si's twin, and Cora who were a couple through school. Now Wit is back home after years away, they meet up on the ranch, and Cora wonders why she has feelings for Si!
A great read.

Candy Canes and Cowboys Macie St. James
Poppy is scouting for locations for Sugar Cookie Productions
Christian lives in the family ranch, but runs a plumbing company. He's just existing since his wife died. He loves the house though and would like to keep the bank at bay.
Poppy and Christian titivate the house and barn, and Poppy takes lots of photos, sending them to her boss.
Back at work she's missing Christian, even though they haven't known each other long.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another great read from Macie
5 stars

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally enjoy Christmas anthologies, like the Xmas Wishes & Cowboy Kisses collection, because they are a collection of Christmas romances all it one place, reminding me of the magic of holidays. Also, the stories are short enough so you can read one or two of them whenever you have time and it introduces me to new authors and new series. There is plenty of romance, humor and surprises for everyone within the stories.

So far I have only read The Xmas Tree Cowboy by Melissa McClone, a sweet story about Cody and Lyne, and second chances. Lyne has had a hard life, with a with a a father and stepmother who treated her as if she was Cinderella; taking care of feeding her “parents”, step-siblings, and half-siblings, cleaning the house, paying rent to live with them and for at least half the cost of food and utilities. Then her family moved away without bothering to tell her where they were going, leaving her homeless. It was a good thing her job at the Bar V5 included room and board in the bunkhouse for employees. Her job at the Bar V5 was a godsend, giving her the family she always wanted and feeling appreciated. After the death of their parents, Cody was tasked with raising his siblings and taking care of the ranch left to them. When asked to help out a friend of her boss, Lyne knows she can’t say no. It is there she is comes face to face with the cowboy who had broken her 16 year old heart; except Cody does not recognize or remember her. Lyne was helping Cody get through the holidays, as their housekeeper, as a favor, but she turned his house back into a home. Family is everything to Cody and while he's attracted to Lyne, he can't bring himself to make a move toward more than friendship. Thank goodness Cody’s family has more sense than him; pushing into making the right decision. This story is full of fun, family, memories and much more. I look forward to reading more of the stories with this collection.

I received a complimentary copy of only this story, but have purchased the book with the entire collection and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

* This review is for Candy Canes & Cowboys by Macie St. James

Reader’s Notes:

– this is connected to Macie’s Lights, Camera, Christmas! series, but can be read as a stand-alone

– this is told from Poppy & Christian’s points of view

– Christian is dealing with the loss of his wife (past event)

Review:

I knew going into the story that it’d be a novella, but I still wanted more! The ending jumped a little to give us a bit into their future which was nice but I was hoping for a little bit more before the ending of the main story. (This is why I removed a star)

I loved the small town of Corbin and how much Poppy loved it (after realizing just how small town it was 😂). I loved that Christian didn’t resign himself to losing the ranch and quickly grabbed hold of the chance he was given to try and reclaim it. I loved that Christian helped Poppy get settled when it was clear that she didn’t realize she wouldn’t have a place to stay that wasn’t an hour away. And I loved that Poppy wanted to help Christian spruce up the ranch for him to get a better chance. 😍

Summary:

Poppy is a location scout sent to take pictures of a few locations for a round of upcoming Christmas movies to be filmed at. When she gets to the last location, Poppy doesn’t think that it has any chance of being chosen. But when she meets the owner, she hopes that against all odds it will be and that she’ll be able to come back to see him again.

Christian is unfortunately very close to having his childhood ranch foreclosed and no one but him cares about it. Until he meets a beautiful woman scouting his home for a production company. When he tells her about his troubles and let’s her see a side to him he thought was locked away when his wife passed, they come up with a plan to fix up the place before she submits the photos to give his home a better shot. But what if after all that Christian’s ranch isn’t chosen? He might just lose the woman he is falling for and his home in one felled swoop…

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun short complete story by Macie St James is the Prequel to the Lights, Camera , Christmas Series. This book is also one of the books in the Christmas Wishes and Cowboy Kisses: A Sweet Contemporary Western Romance Collection. Te Christmas Wishes and Cowboy Kisses is a wonderful collection of short stories by a great group of authors. This is the only book in the series that I have read so far.

Candy Canes and Cowboys:

Christian Snow is on the verge of losing his family's ranch if something doesn't change. When he gets the opportunity to possibly have his ranch chosen for a film production company to make a series of Christmas movies, he will do whatever it takes to get chosen. If his ranch gets chosen it could be just the thing to turn it around.

Christian's life could also use something to make it turn around. Every since his wife Melissa suddenly passed away three years before, he's been lost. Poppy Webster the location scout for the state came to take pictures of his ranch. She stirred something inside him that he thought was dead. Could he get her to stay around for a short while to get to know her?

Poppy Webster is new at her job as a location scout. She has to take pictures of two ranches for the state film commission. One of the two ranches will be chosen as the site for a series of Christmas movies. When she sees Snowy Canyon Ranch, it is slightly run down but has great potential. She also feels drawn to it's owner Christian Snow. So when he asks for a weekend to help spruce up the ranch before she submits her pictures, she not only agrees but works along side him.

This story really sets the tone of the series as well as introducing two of the characters. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an add on:
Candy Canes And Cowboys by Macie St. James is just one of the fine stories you will find in Christmas Wishes and Cowboy Kisses: A Sweet Contemporary Western Romance Collection
Poppy and Christian.
Oh my what a charming tale this was the characters were awesome and no villains in this one either. I loved the town folk but the hero and heroine were just outstanding. It is a book you can read anytime you want to bring a smile to your face. It is all about a Christmas miracle in summer. Confused you trust me just read the book you will understand. This is one book that is great for all ages. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.


I can’t wait until I can read the whole collection.
The Christmas Cowboy with a Joy Filled Heart by Kathleen Ball is just one of the books offered in this collection. There are some of the best authors around included in the collection if their stories are as great as Ms. Ball you are in for a treat. Ms. Ball's book was such a lovely book it is all about a man who decided that he must give up what he was doing and go a different path. Along the way he finds out he may lose the family home. When trying to go home and see what he could do he has an accident but then something unexpected happens. This is very well written and not a very long read that will bring a smile to you face and joy in your heart. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.

A Holly Jolly Cowboy Parker J Coles I think this is the last update I will need to make. This was my senior moment where I did not realize had three arc all in the same collection. I will tell you if the others stories are like these three you are in for a special treat!
A sweet story.
All he wanted was to live like a cowboy for a few weeks and all she wanted was to somehow get the ranch out of the red. One look and he knew she was the one it took her a bit longer. It was a sweet love story with a great cast of characters and a villain that was a surprise. The ending was awesome it is such a wonderful story for the holiday season I loved it. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gift of Gingerbread. More of the Glover’s! This is Arizona and Duke’s story and you will love it! If you haven’t read the other stories about the Glover’s from Shiloh Ridge Ranch you need to read them all. Once again, Liz Isaacson delivers a clean, inspirational love story with cowboys and great family interactions!

A Forgotten Heart. Darcy is just looking for a warm place to stay off the radar until the weather clears. Nathan is just checking on things at the estate where he is caretaker. There attraction is mutual, totally unexpected and eerily like a one-hundred year old love story. You will love this sweet inspirational love story by Heather Blanton!

Taming Christmas. Love books with Cowboys! Huck and Mara look back at how they met. Neither was looking for love or to settle down. But when God has a plan it just happens! You will feel you are there experiencing the rodeo and the sights of Las Vegas. Don’t miss this sweet, clean, Christmas romance from Shanna Hatfield!

A Christmas Cowboy’s Joy Filled Heart. You will love this second chance Christmas Romance! Joe and Iris were childhood sweethearts that were manipulated and torn apart by family. Add in a snow storm, Christmas, and the sweetest little girl ever and you have a great heartwarming Christmas read! Kathleen Ball makes you feel like you are there! You will love this story!.

I'm sure all of the selections in this book are wonderful. These are reviews on the ones I have read so far! All by wonderful authors!