Cherie Colyer's Blog, page 21

Kris's Kringles by Linda Bleser

 

Today's chookie romance is Kriss Kringles by Linda Bleser. 


Blurb
Christmas hasn't been the same since Kris Miller's beloved grandmother passed. Every year, she made him a special batch of cookies she named Kris's Kringles. So when he discovers the local cookie contest will publish the winning entry, it seems the perfect legacy to honor her. Unfortunately, there's no record of the secret Kringle recipe.
Single mom, Sophie Lawson's new catering business is barely making ends meet. The opportunity to recreate Kris's grandmother's recipe from memory is almost as tempting as he is. She agrees to help on one condition--he'll have to bake them himself. She has her own entry and desperately needs the cash prize. But when they begin this friendly rivalry, they never expect their growing attraction to include consequences.
Get your copyAmazon  | Barnes & Noble



Peek between the pages
"Pizza's here," Sophie's father shouted. He opened the front door and Sophie peeked into the living room. Her jaw dropped when she saw Kris in the doorway balancing two pizza boxes. "Hope you don't mind," he said. "I saw the delivery man in the driveway and took this off his hands. Took care of the bill too, if that's okay." Sophie's father clapped him on the back. "I like this guy."

"Come on in," Marilyn called. "Sophie's told me you'll be working together to develop a prize-winning cookie."

"I hope so," he said. "Where do you want this?"

"On the countertop," Sophie said, leading him into the kitchen. Kris set the pizza box on the counter then took a look at the various packages of flour, sugar and baking ingredients lined up on the other side. "Are you sure I gave you enough money for all this?"

"Plenty," she said, then reached for a package shoved behind a bag of confectioner's sugar. "I had a little left over and bought you this." She held out a black apron with red lips on the bib and the saying Kiss the Cook across the front."

Kris gave her an incredulous look. "You expect me to wear this?"

"Every good cook needs an apron." He wagged an eyebrow.

"And if I do, will you…?"

She grinned. "Don't push your luck. It was the only one they had."


Stop back by to discover more cookie romances.

Snowdrop Cookie Wishes by Laura Strickland

 

Wishes can come true in Snowdrop Cookie Wishes by Laura Strickland. 

Snowdrop Cookie Wishes is a beautifully written story, filled with hope. Lisse is selfless, thoughtful, and caring, and her act of kindness is just what her neighbors need to bring joy to a town hit hard by disease. It’s a 5-star historical novella perfect for a quiet winter afternoon or evening.

About the book
It's been a difficult year in Lissi Johansen's sixteenth-century Danish village. As Christmas approaches, she longs for holidays past when her parents visited their neighbors, distributing cookies and good wishes to all. She hopes to bake a single batch of her mama's Snowdrop Cookies and tuck a gift of magic wishes inside. But she will need help to make the miracle come true.
Miller Ole Andersen is barely hanging on after the loss of his wife and child to the plague. When Lissi begs him for a measure of flour, he's won over by her warmth and generous spirit. He never suspects the events that follow will teach him about the limitless capacity of the heart, or that wishes given away can sometimes be the most magical of all.
Read it todayAmazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Goodreads  |  Bookbub



Peek between the pages
He leaned against the edge of the table. “It is good to bring some light into our lives now, at the darkest time.”

He did not mean the winter. She nodded. “As I say, I will not be able to make as many cookies as Mama and Papa did, not enough for everyone in the village. But I am hoping, one perhaps for each household. I hope that may spread some joy. I suppose it is foolish, after all.”

“No, Mistress Johansen, it is not.” He smiled, and his grave face momentarily shone. “You bake your magic in there. It is what we need.”

“Thank you. Thank you for helping me. I will make sure your Hanne gets a cookie.”

He nodded and quickly turned for the door. Were those tears Lissi caught in his eyes?

Linzer Tarts and Broken Hearts by Carol Henry

 

Today I'm excited to spotlight this tasty treat Linzer Tarts & Broken Hearts by Carol Henry. 

Blurb
Christmas Cookie baking isn’t the only thing that’s heating up in the kitchen. Amber Talbot’s daughter, Beth, has invited her new best friend, Joanna, to bake Christmas cookies this year. Officer Jace Gunderson, single dad, insists on checking out the family first. From there, thanks to the two inseparable first graders, Amber and Jace’s lives intertwine over the holidays where they, too, become inseparable. But Amber doesn’t need another lawman in her life. Her first husband was killed in the line of duty. Can Jace win her over, despite her reluctance to commit to their fledgling relationship? Or will Amber reject his advances and ruin everyone’s Christmas?
Grab your copy today!Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Goodreads  |  Bookbub


Peek between the pages
“You know, Mr. Gundersen, I’m beginning to feel as if I’m being interrogated. I’m familiar with how you lawmen work, even if they aren’t in uniform. I was married to one, you know. I’m sure you’ve already done a preliminary check, and know a lot about me already.”

“No, ma’am, just curious. I thought you looked familiar, and then remembered seeing you looking out the window, and meeting you when I was on call at a domestic a couple weeks ago. Wondered how you managed to go from that neighborhood to this place.”

“Well, now you know. Anything else you’d like me to clear up for you?”

He couldn’t help but grin at her. She had gumption, turning the tables on him.

They both sipped cider, looked over at their daughters in an uncomfortable silence. Until she turned to him with a raised eyebrow and looked directly at him with those green eyes, that sparkled.

“So, tell me, Mr. Gundersen…”

“Jace.”

“Jace. Where is Mrs. Gundersen?

Come back tomorrow to discover more books!

Coconut Macaroon Scandal by Virginia Barlow

Cozy up with today's spotlighted book, Coconut Macaroon Scandal by Virginia Barlow.


Blurb
When Emma Davis is summoned to her hometown on negligence charges her world turns upside down. She faces losing everything she worked so hard for, her bakery and her inheritance. She's met all the conditions of the will but one--a fiancé. Jilted and mistrustful, Emma cannot face her family alone. When Gran's ghost recommends a particular customer for the job, Emma closes her eyes and proposes.
Sebastian Lewis agrees without hesitation. He's had his eye on this beauty for some time. She has qualities none of the women in his past possess. Determined to make their engagement real, Sebastian follows her home until an emergency calls him away.
Emma's past and insecurities rise as her life and future are threatened.
Grab your copyAmazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Goodreads  |  Bookbub



Peek between the pages
“I’m going to give you a proper kiss now,” he warned, “for practice.” His gaze searched hers. “Most couples know each other intimately by this point in their relationship. Since we are new together, I suggest we kiss and touch as much as possible the next two weeks. This way, we’ll be natural together.” Emma’s knees weakened. She nodded and waited. Sebastian placed a hand on her waist and drew her forward until their bodies touched. Emma’s stomach twisted. He was a head taller. She stared at the V-neck of his T-shirt trying not to think about how warm he was. His cologne enveloped her. Emma dragged in the scent and closed her eyes. God, he smelled good.

“Emma.” His deep voice vibrated by her ear.

She opened her eyes when he laced their fingers together. Her body trembled against him. She lifted her chin and met his gaze. His emerald eyes stared into her soul as his lips descended. They were warm, firm, and searching. Desire coiled in her stomach. It had been ages since a man touched her. She pressed against him. He tasted like coffee and cream. His arms wrapped around her and pulled her close. Emma’s knees gave out at the same moment. God, he felt good. She wound her arms around his neck and kissed him back. He stilled. And then his hand was at the back of her head angling her so he could deepen the kiss. His tongue swept inside her mouth and stroked along hers. Emma moaned. Heat spiraled through her. She opened her mouth for more.



Bookmark this page and return often to discover more great reads!

Merry Little Wishing Spritz by Cherie Colyer

 

Up today is my witty paranormal romance, Merry Little Wishing Spritz. 

What readers had to say...
Merry Little Wishing Spritz made me smile, grin, giggle and thoroughly entertained me. ~ Long and Short Reviews
A perfect holiday romance that will make you laugh, smile, and perhaps even swoon. ~Sydney Winward, author
A warm and enchanting holiday romance… Just perfect for curling up by the fire with a cup of hot chocolate, and maybe a cookie or two! ~ Laura Strickland, author
I finished reading Merry Little Wishing Spritz and I wanted to read it again and again... It’s going on my annual holiday reads list. Highly recommend! ~ N.N. Light


Blurb
Modern-day witch Cassie Moore’s cozy life turns upside down when her friend foresees the wrecking ball that threatens to destroy Cassie’s home and workplace. But Cassie isn’t giving up without a fight. She casts a well-intended spell meant to save her apartment and her job. But magic is unpredictable, especially when her friend casts a little charm of her own that has Cassie lusting after the man she desperately wants to despise.
Jack Quinn has had his eyes on Lakeside Books for years, and he couldn’t be happier the owner is finally ready to sell. He has big plans for the cozy waterfront property, but he didn’t expect to care about the store or its employees. And he never imagined he’d be drawn to a certain brown-eyed saleswoman.
As if by magic.
Read it todayAmazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Apple  |  Goodreads  | Bookbub



Peek between the pages
​​“He’s convincing,” one of the women who worked there whispered. “And sexy. Where’d you find him?”

It was the darn suit. The sleeves strained against muscle when he lifted gifts and the pants practically drew the eye to his thighs when he squatted to talk to the smaller children. It fit too perfectly. Maybe Peyton had spelled it to adjust to the wearer?

“He found us.”

“Well, you’re a lucky woman—”

“Oh, he and I aren’t together.”

“Really? The two of you keep sneaking glances at each other.”

If we did, it was only because we were working together. “I assure you, we’re not a couple.”

“Hum, well then.” She eyed Jack. “If I wasn’t married…” She cackled. Actually cackled! “Don’t just stand there, girl.” She nudged me. “Bring him a bottle of water.”

It was the least I could do. I grabbed a bottle and rejoined Jack.

“I thought Santa might be thirsty.”

“Ho ho ho! Thank you.” Jack grabbed my hand along with the water and twirled me around once. Heart racing and a bit off-balanced I bumped into him. His free hand settled on my waist. “You’re lucky you’re not dressed as Mrs. Clause,” he whispered.

His eyes twinkled. My breath caught. “Why’s that?”He glanced up. I followed his gaze to the mistletoe hanging from the ceiling.



Stop back regularly to discover more holiday novellas in The Wild Rose Press' Christmas Cookie series.

Macaroons by Moonlight by Annette Miller

 

We continue our 25 Days of Christmas with Macaroons by Moonlight by Annette. This novella is such a fun holiday romance filled with the magic of Christmas. It’s the perfect book to usher in the holiday spirit. Check out my full review on Goodreads.

Blurb
When Joanna Robillard’s car breaks down in front of the Heavenly Bites cookie shop, it’s just another part of the string of bad luck since she started her trip west. Her money’s almost gone, now she needs repairs and a place to stay. When the owner of the shop comes out, she’s struck by his resemblance to the tall elves in fantasy movies.
Davin Mines owns the shop where Joanna’s car breaks down. He offers her a temporary job to help her earn money to get her car fixed. But the longer she’s there, the more he thinks she belongs with him. However, he has his own magical secret to fulfill the promise of the holiday season.
Read it today
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads | Bookbub

Peek between the pages:
Joanna picked up her fork and poked at the crust. “Can we stop all the discussions about me before I get even more depressed? I’ve made a complete mess of my life.”

“Not true,” Davin said. “After all, you got to meet me.”

She glanced up and smiled at the twinkle in his eyes. “You’re quite full of yourself, aren’t you?”

“Nope. I only speak the truth.” He frowned. “Unless you don’t care for my company.”

A laugh escaped her before she could stop it. “I do care for your company. You and Isaac and Ms. Warner have all been very kind to me. I didn’t think nice people existed anymore.”

“They do. You just have to look a little harder to find them these days.”

Joanna gazed into his eyes. When she first met him, they looked ice blue. Now, the color looked more like the blue shadows the sun would cast on snow. Her heart did another little dance. Maybe Davin Mines was an elf and had cast a spell over her. Magic was the most logical explanation for the rush of blood to her head and the butterflies in her stomach.



Come back tomorrow to discover more Christmas novellas.

Magic and Midnight Mint Bars by Iona Morrison

 

Magic & Midnight Mint Bars by Iona Morrison has just the right amount of holiday spirit, friendship, romance, and hope. If you're in the mood for an inspirational story you won't be disappointed with this one. You can read my full review on Goodread.

Blurb 
Months after a bitter divorce, Sally Mansfield is spending Christmas with her best friends at the Blue Iris Inn. Fifty pounds thinner than the last time they were together, she is excited for her friends to see the change. She might still be wounded, her self-esteem at rock bottom, but Sally is determined to have a fun holiday with her friends.
Read it today!
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads | Bookbub


Peek between the pages
A recent broken engagement brought Chad Bennett back to Blue Cove. Intrigued by Sally, he is interested in learning more, but she remains a closed book and truthfully so is he. Is it possible with the help of a little Christmas magic, a winsome sprite named Elida, some chocolate goodness, and friends, two lonely souls can find friendship and the possibility of a lot more over the holidays?

Snippet: “You may as well open your eyes, sweetie, and stop rubbing them because I’m not going anywhere soon. I’ve come in response to your request.” The light seemed to pulsate from the creature as she spoke.

“I didn’t ask you to come. I made no request.” Sally lifted the cover to her chin as she sat up.

“Humor me.” Her small foot tapped against the footboard as she hovered in the air. “Did I not hear you ask for a little magic for your life?” She looked directly at Sally. “That would be me. I’m your answer.”



More Christmas Cookie novellas to come, so be sure to stop back by!

Snickerdoodle Snowmen by Sarita Leone

 

Snickerdoodle Snowmen is a delicious, cozy holiday romance and Sarita Leone has a wonderfully descriptive writing style that brings the scenes alive. You can read my full review on Goodreads.


Blurb
Baker Kris Kringles sends snickerdoodles from North Pole, Alaska, across the globe, spreading holiday cheer like confetti. But she has a secret not dusted with sugar, and an incentive to speak with a slick journalist that isn't half-baked.
Reporter Santos Kloss hates Christmas. How could he not, with a name that makes him the butt of endless holiday jokes? He's got one last assignment to complete before he can begin a new chapter in his life, so he grits his teeth, grabs a parka, and heads to Christmas central.
Both expect the interview to be a snap, but a snowstorm, insistent sisters, and a little holiday magic have very different ideas!
Get your copyAmazon  |  Barnes & Noble


Peek between the pages
“You’re the newspaper man, aren’t you?”

Santos stopped the mug an inch from his lips and looked over the rim into the woman’s eyes. They were green—not merely hazel or a watered-down soda-bottle shade, but vibrantly colored, like the office parrot’s feathers. Polly, the newspaper mascot, looked like a beauty but swore like a sailor, courtesy of the newsmen who got their kicks from teaching the bird to talk. He’d even added some colorful Italian phrases to their feathered friend’s vocabulary.

She stared at him with those piercing eyes so long and hard that his heart began to pound. He wondered if she read right into the truth of him. It sure felt that way. As if despite his nonchalant entrance, small talk, and even observing her figure, she realized he wasn’t some fellow off the street, in for a coffee and cookies. He resisted the urge to pull his jacket closed.

Great. Precisely what he didn’t need. A dame with a brain, a killer attribute that never failed to stir something deep within him.

The stirring hadn’t ever proved deep enough to keep a woman, so he tried to steer clear of romantic involvements. But damn, it felt as if she reached into his soul with those incredible eyes.

Santos lifted his shoulders, then let them drop. He took a long swallow of joe before setting the mug on the counter. “Guilty as charged. I’m from the New York Daily, here to do a story on some cookies that I’m told are made in this shop and sent to crazy, obsessed Christmas fanatics all over the world.”

The minute he said it he realized he’d stuck his foot in his mouth. Pretty far down his throat, too.


There are more Christmas Cookie Romances to choose from, so be sure to stop back often. 

Red Velvet Crinkles and Christmas Sprinkles by Maria Imbalzano

 Today's spotlight is Red Velvet Crinkles and Christmas Sprinkles by Maria Imbalzano, a cozy holiday novella.

Blurb 
Competitive, work-obsessed Bella Simonetti has just been fired from her high-paying job at a Manhattan law firm. At an all-time low, she returns home and helps her parents at their small-town gift shop, but the business is failing and may not make it past the Christmas holidays.
Successful landscape architect Dean Jackson is like a son to Bella's parents. But he's a persistent annoyance to her—he seems to have forgotten his unforgivable blunder thirteen years earlier.
When Bella transforms her parents' gift shop into a cookie cottage, Dean's generosity and magnetic smile are hard to resist, and those feelings of unrequited adolescent love come rushing back. But can Bella let go of the past and accept Dean for the man he is today?
Grab your copy Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Goodreads  |  Bookbub


Peek between the pages
She ignored the little voice in her head encouraging her to come clean. Especially since she planned to live in her parents’ house until she could find a job. Maybe she’d share at dinner tonight. After a bottle of wine.

The back door squeaked open and a gust of air blew in before the door was firmly closed. “Good morning, Barb. Clive.”

The guest came in and gave her mom a kiss on the cheek before slapping her dad on the back. Bella’s mouth flew open as she watched the scene, a tiny gasp escaping.

Dean Jackson! What is he doing here?

“Honey, you remember Dean don’t you?” Her mom’s smile grew much bigger than it had been all morning. “Your brother’s friend from high school?”

“Of…of course I do.” Bella buttoned the top button of her pajamas before her hand flew up to assure her messy bun was still on top of her head. Fire flamed her face as she puzzled out the reason for his presence at seven-thirty a.m. on a Wednesday morning. Or any time, for that matter.

“Dean’s been like another son to us,” her dad beamed. “Ever since your brother took that job in Boston, he’s helped us do whatever needs to be done around here or at the store. And he’s my golf buddy.”

Dean’s gaze zeroed in on her, and her thoughts fuzzed. She would have loved to slink upstairs, but no way was she going to get out of this chair sporting flannel pajamas and bunny slippers. Was nothing sacred around here?


Stop back regularly to discover more holiday novellas in The Wild Rose Press' Christmas Cookie series.

The Nutcracker Nibble Case by Jeanne Kern

Today I'm spotlighting The Nutcracker Nibble Case by Jeanne Kern, a holiday mystery just right for curling up with by the fire. 


About the book
Police Chief Julia Dunnigan tries to crack a locked room murder—the toughest case of her career—and the closed heart of Lieutenant Phil Riley who resents that she took the job he wanted.
Read it todayAmazon | Barnes & Noble
Peek between the pages
“It can’t be suicide because—no weapon. It can’t be murder because—locked room. So somebody or everybody knows something he’s not telling.”

“It’s always the wife. Like I said.” Riley glared around the room, demanding confirmation.

“Thank you, Lieutenant Riley. But we do have to have some proof.”


Be sure to stop back regularly to discover more holiday novellas in The Wild Rose Press' Christmas Cookie series.