by Adrianne James

This was a story that surprised me once I got started reading. I did not jump into it but kind of eased in and found myself liking the characters for being normal, more or less. There was not an instant love connection it took them a few weeks to think they might be in love. There were some problems with things like word usage and some missing information, but nothing that was so bad it took away from the story itself. The characters were complex enough to keep you interested in them and willing to commit to what was going on.

Noel Jamison is a painter who travels the world painting landscapes for clients willing to send her to exotic locations. But the one thing she does to keep her grounded is return home for the holidays each year for an extended stay. On Thanksgiving day her Uncle plans on frying the turkey but decides to so it inside the garage, a fire ensues. Dean Evans is a fire fighter who has recently been transferred to the Mistletoe fire department because of a tragedy in his past that makes it hard for him to work in a larger city. While Noel loves the holidays Dean dislikes them but they both want to avoid relationships at any cost.

Nice tone with just the right bit of heat and holiday spirit. It has a sweet quality while it maintains a bit of edge for those who want a little spice. I think it is a really good holiday story for anyone.