I’ve got another holiday related collection for you, this time instead of holiday short stories its holiday romance novellas. The Season for Love is a collection of three Shannon Stacey works all tied (loosely) around the holiday season.
In another review of Ms. Stacey’s works I’ve commended her ability to ground her characters in the real world, while still letting them play in Romance Novel Land ™. That is still true, and perhaps why when looking for something to download onto my nook before flying home for Christmas I chose this collection to go along with the two novellas by Diana Peterfreund. These are no Milan, but they are enjoyable stories that I happily read in two sittings.
So what about the stories themselves?
Holiday Sparks explores the Romance Novel Land ™ standard of a short term fling that turns into love from both sides. Added in is the fun balance of boy from high school getting a chance with the girl of his dreams. He’s going to rewire her parents’ house which leads to extended time together. Two very likeable and relatable leads, not the strongest of stories, but a good read.
Mistletoe and Margaritas was probably my favorite of the bunch. Claire is a widow who has a strong friendship with her husband’s best friend Justin. He’s had more than friendly feelings for her for many, many years. This story explores what happens when it’s time to possibly move beyond friendship.
Snowbound with the CEO is burdened with the worst title, and the shakiest back story. The CEO in question, Adrian Blackstone, is stuck at a hotel with his executive assistant, Rachel Carter, whom he finds distractingly attractive, both in body and personality. Luckily for him she feels the same. This story really got going when these two had to figure out if they could possibly continue to work together after their weekend in the mountains.
If you are in the mood for a little light, holiday themed contemporary romantic reads, these might hit the spot for you.