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Operation Romance #1
Operation Mistletoe
Victoria Spencer hates Christmas.
For the last ten years, disaster has struck on Christmas Eve, leaving Tori dreading the holidays. When she’s assigned to cover the light displays for her newspaper, she’s determined to spend as little time on the article as possible. Especially once she realizes she’s to feature frat boy Gabe “The Babe” Robertson, her former college crush.
Gabe Robertson is a different man than he was in college. Every December, he transforms his acreage into a winter wonderland designed to celebrate the birth of Christ and share God’s love with the community. He also uses the lights to raise money for Operation Mistletoe, an organization that sends Christmas to troops stationed overseas.
Unable to set aside her prejudice, Tori looks for ulterior motives in Gabe’s actions and determines to dig deeper. Will her investigations destroy any chance of a Merry Christmas?
For the last ten years, disaster has struck on Christmas Eve, leaving Tori dreading the holidays. When she’s assigned to cover the light displays for her newspaper, she’s determined to spend as little time on the article as possible. Especially once she realizes she’s to feature frat boy Gabe “The Babe” Robertson, her former college crush.
Gabe Robertson is a different man than he was in college. Every December, he transforms his acreage into a winter wonderland designed to celebrate the birth of Christ and share God’s love with the community. He also uses the lights to raise money for Operation Mistletoe, an organization that sends Christmas to troops stationed overseas.
Unable to set aside her prejudice, Tori looks for ulterior motives in Gabe’s actions and determines to dig deeper. Will her investigations destroy any chance of a Merry Christmas?
112 pages, ebook
First published December 1, 2015
132 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Maddrey
69 books252 followersUSA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Maddrey is a semi-reformed computer geek and homeschooling mother of two who lives in the suburbs of Washington D.C. When she isn’t writing, Elizabeth is a voracious consumer of books. She loves to write about Christians who struggle through their lives, dealing with sin and receiving God’s grace on their way to their own romantic happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
November 28, 2021
My third re-read and it's just as sweet and encouraging and Christmas infusing as the first time.
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This is my first Elizabeth Maddrey book and I'm so glad I have another one waiting on my TBR pile! I don't know how I missed this author but I intend to play a serious game of catch-up now that I've 'discovered' her!
A Christmas story with a Scroogy twist. Victoria isn't a fan of Christmas. Gabe is an over-the-top, out-of-the-box celebrator. Victoria isn't impressed. She's looking for an angle and Gabe's got one -- Jesus. Love the way the author incorporates the true meaning of Christmas into this story. Love Gabe's enthusiasm. His servant's heart. The way he lives his beliefs. But Victoria's certain there's something fishy going on and she plans to uncover the truth.
This is a shorter read, but it packs an emotional wallop along with a zing of Christmas cheer and holiday romance.
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This is my first Elizabeth Maddrey book and I'm so glad I have another one waiting on my TBR pile! I don't know how I missed this author but I intend to play a serious game of catch-up now that I've 'discovered' her!
A Christmas story with a Scroogy twist. Victoria isn't a fan of Christmas. Gabe is an over-the-top, out-of-the-box celebrator. Victoria isn't impressed. She's looking for an angle and Gabe's got one -- Jesus. Love the way the author incorporates the true meaning of Christmas into this story. Love Gabe's enthusiasm. His servant's heart. The way he lives his beliefs. But Victoria's certain there's something fishy going on and she plans to uncover the truth.
This is a shorter read, but it packs an emotional wallop along with a zing of Christmas cheer and holiday romance.
January 31, 2016
Maddrey has hit her stride. Her novella length faith-based romances hold the right amount of tension, testimony, and resolution. Her characters are likable, believable, and given the length quite developed. Recommended.
December 1, 2015
Operation Mistletoe by Elizabeth Maddrey is a wonderful Christmas novella. I always love books by Elizabeth Maddrey, but this one is really special. It is more than just a warm, fuzzy, feel-good story, it is about the real meaning of Christmas.
Twenty eight year old Tori dislikes Christmas after ten disastrous ones, and is horrified when she is told to go and interview Gabe, a company director, about his Christmas lights display to raise money for Operation Mistletoe. Operation Mistletoe is a charity founded by Gabe to help bring Christmas to the forces men and women serving overseas. It is more than just gifts, it is showing them Jesus.
Operation Mistletoe has Jesus at the centre of the novel. It is not a 'preachy' read. It shows characters living out their Christian lives, that then attract others to Jesus. It is about walking the walk.
The novel deals with the theme of forgiveness, showing that it is an area that everyone struggles with. The Christian characters are all very 'real' as they not only have troubles in this area but also can struggle with controlling their temper too.
Within Operation Mistletoe the gift of hospitality is practiced as Gabe opens his home to those who would otherwise be alone.
Elizabeth Maddrey shows that as well as relatively new Christians in the novel, there are also back slidden ones. It is important to keep focussed on Jesus and to read His word daily.
If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Everyone has a past and a life before they met Jesus, and Elizabeth Maddrey demonstrates within the novel that the old life is gone, and the new is here.
An absolutely wonderful novella, and one I intend to add to my list of 'must read' Christmas stories each year.
Give yourself a treat - grab a coffee, a comfy chair and a copy of Operation Mistletoe, you'll be glad you did.
Twenty eight year old Tori dislikes Christmas after ten disastrous ones, and is horrified when she is told to go and interview Gabe, a company director, about his Christmas lights display to raise money for Operation Mistletoe. Operation Mistletoe is a charity founded by Gabe to help bring Christmas to the forces men and women serving overseas. It is more than just gifts, it is showing them Jesus.
Operation Mistletoe has Jesus at the centre of the novel. It is not a 'preachy' read. It shows characters living out their Christian lives, that then attract others to Jesus. It is about walking the walk.
The novel deals with the theme of forgiveness, showing that it is an area that everyone struggles with. The Christian characters are all very 'real' as they not only have troubles in this area but also can struggle with controlling their temper too.
Within Operation Mistletoe the gift of hospitality is practiced as Gabe opens his home to those who would otherwise be alone.
Elizabeth Maddrey shows that as well as relatively new Christians in the novel, there are also back slidden ones. It is important to keep focussed on Jesus and to read His word daily.
If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. Everyone has a past and a life before they met Jesus, and Elizabeth Maddrey demonstrates within the novel that the old life is gone, and the new is here.
An absolutely wonderful novella, and one I intend to add to my list of 'must read' Christmas stories each year.
Give yourself a treat - grab a coffee, a comfy chair and a copy of Operation Mistletoe, you'll be glad you did.
November 21, 2017
I enjoyed the story of Victoria, who is most definitely not a fan of Christmas, and Gabe, a man determined to do what he can to bring Christmas to troops stationed overseas.
Tori knew Gabe in college so when she's assigned to cover the story of his Christmas display she's less than excited. She remembers a womanizer and expects him to be the same. She's in for a surprise when she gets to know Gabe, very different and very serious about his mission, but she's still determined to find something less-than-nobel about him. Gabe gradually wins over Tori and gets her to see the true meaning of the Christmas season.
Tori knew Gabe in college so when she's assigned to cover the story of his Christmas display she's less than excited. She remembers a womanizer and expects him to be the same. She's in for a surprise when she gets to know Gabe, very different and very serious about his mission, but she's still determined to find something less-than-nobel about him. Gabe gradually wins over Tori and gets her to see the true meaning of the Christmas season.
December 1, 2015
This is a novella centered around the Christmas season that was a delightful read. I was pulled into Victoria and Gabe's stories from the first pages and enjoyed following their story to see if they could put their pasts behind them in order to see the future God had planned for them. This is another book from this author that I definitely recommend.
December 10, 2015
A delightfully wonderful Christmas Novella that was difficult to put down. It tells the real meaning of Christmas and the power Christ can have on an individual's life. This is one I will want to read over and over again.
November 30, 2015
This is a nice Christmas novella about Tori who has always had bad Christmases and Gabe who loves Christmas and celebrates it to the extreme.
I loved seeing them interact and how it shows the true meaning of Christmas.
I look forward to more by this author
I loved seeing them interact and how it shows the true meaning of Christmas.
I look forward to more by this author
December 2, 2015
A Christmas season novella of Victoria's and Gabe's stories. I enjoyed following their story. They needed to put their pasts behind them in order to see the future God had for them. I definitely recommend this book and author.
December 14, 2019
Gabe and Tori’s story
I very much enjoyed this book! First of all, it is so important for people to understand that Jesus Christ is the true reason for Christmas. I think it’s hard to be able to grasp how to be completely humble. I think Gabe thought at first that being humble was not wanting anyone to know the way he was helping people. Jesus does tell us to do things in secret, but there are times when He chooses something different. My heart went out to Tori. I feel sad when I find people who feel like Christmas has a “curse” on it. I’m glad Jesus is greater than all that. I plan to read Rick’s story next, but I totally am anxious to see if Jake has a story, too. Very well done!!!
I very much enjoyed this book! First of all, it is so important for people to understand that Jesus Christ is the true reason for Christmas. I think it’s hard to be able to grasp how to be completely humble. I think Gabe thought at first that being humble was not wanting anyone to know the way he was helping people. Jesus does tell us to do things in secret, but there are times when He chooses something different. My heart went out to Tori. I feel sad when I find people who feel like Christmas has a “curse” on it. I’m glad Jesus is greater than all that. I plan to read Rick’s story next, but I totally am anxious to see if Jake has a story, too. Very well done!!!
February 22, 2023
Journalist, Tori, has had disastrous Christmases for many years and now tries to skip the whole season. When she is assigned an article on a local Christmas light show, she has no choice but to interview the owner who claims to pay for the light show himself and give away any money received. Tori does not believe the owner, Gabe, has changed since she knew him in college and sets out to tell the truth about him. I enjoyed this audio book which I received through the author but would have preferred another reader. This is my honest opinion.
December 3, 2021
ebook
She’s a reporter on a small town newspaper just waiting for the bid story to get out of there. She gets assigned to do a light show for Christmas that’s donations all profits to a military support group. She hates Christmas and begs off the job but it’s do or die. She does the story and Mets a guy she used to know but he’s so different she thinks he a phony or conning people. But time proves her wrong
She’s a reporter on a small town newspaper just waiting for the bid story to get out of there. She gets assigned to do a light show for Christmas that’s donations all profits to a military support group. She hates Christmas and begs off the job but it’s do or die. She does the story and Mets a guy she used to know but he’s so different she thinks he a phony or conning people. But time proves her wrong
January 26, 2022
Christmas Story
I rarely pay attention to seasonal books (I read it when it catches my eye) so re-reading this not long after the Christmas season has me seeing it through different eyes. Christmas has always been about family, I can't imagine not feeling welcome with mine, or not enjoying the season. Victoria (Tori) has a different perspective than I have ever considered. I enjoyed getting to know her and Gabe.
I rarely pay attention to seasonal books (I read it when it catches my eye) so re-reading this not long after the Christmas season has me seeing it through different eyes. Christmas has always been about family, I can't imagine not feeling welcome with mine, or not enjoying the season. Victoria (Tori) has a different perspective than I have ever considered. I enjoyed getting to know her and Gabe.
July 13, 2022
Operation Mistletoe
Tori is skeptical of Christmas. She has had something bad happen on Christmas Eve for the last 10 years. When her boss assigns her to write a "fluff" piece she's not happy. She can't do a happy Christmas story.
Gabe does a light show every year to raise money for military members overseas during the holidays. Can Gabe convince Tori that Christmas is to be celebrated ?
Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Tori is skeptical of Christmas. She has had something bad happen on Christmas Eve for the last 10 years. When her boss assigns her to write a "fluff" piece she's not happy. She can't do a happy Christmas story.
Gabe does a light show every year to raise money for military members overseas during the holidays. Can Gabe convince Tori that Christmas is to be celebrated ?
Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
December 9, 2021
This is a wonderful Christmas story that I couldn't put down until I had finished reading it. Funny how the 2 main characters went to college together and he didn't remember her at first. She was pretty skeptical of him, remembering how he was in college. But he has totally changed and found Christ, lives his faith in his actions.
December 28, 2025
Operation mistletoe
Heartwarming story of love, change and forgiveness. Tori thought she knew all about Gabe and didn't want to see that he had changed since college. He didn't recognize her at first. I liked how they were able to move past who they were and find friendship and more. Sweet, inspiring story.
Heartwarming story of love, change and forgiveness. Tori thought she knew all about Gabe and didn't want to see that he had changed since college. He didn't recognize her at first. I liked how they were able to move past who they were and find friendship and more. Sweet, inspiring story.
December 29, 2025
This was rather a fun read. I did feel the “instant love” was a bit strange. At that point we don’t even know if Tori is a Christian and they’d had one good interaction after starting off on the wrong foot. I did get rather annoyed at Gabe and his reaction to his Christmas gift. But things all worked out in the end.
And I would like to go visit his Christmas Lights display!
And I would like to go visit his Christmas Lights display!
December 29, 2025
Love Ms. Maddery’s books. This one is a great start to a series. Gabe and Tori have history together but each of them has changed since then. A bit of a reversal of personalities for both. Always enjoy when a relationship with Jesus is the focus and relying on prayer is a thread throughout the storyline.
July 26, 2019
For the last ten years, disaster has struck on Christmas Eve, leaving Tori dreading the holidays. When she’s assigned to cover the light displays for her newspaper, she’s determined to spend as little time on the article as possible.
December 12, 2019
Definitely "cozy"
The religion is very forefront and not glossed over at all. Where a lot of cozy stories touch on it and then leave it alone for a while, this book takes no breaks. So safe you can let your 8 year old read it.
The religion is very forefront and not glossed over at all. Where a lot of cozy stories touch on it and then leave it alone for a while, this book takes no breaks. So safe you can let your 8 year old read it.
December 6, 2021
It warming kind-hearted romance
I enjoyed the characters in this story. It's basically about a reformed college playboy who finds his way. While a college crush has to reconnect with him. The ups and downs of their relationship lead her to God.
I enjoyed the characters in this story. It's basically about a reformed college playboy who finds his way. While a college crush has to reconnect with him. The ups and downs of their relationship lead her to God.
December 20, 2021
More! More! More!!!
I really liked this story. It was fresh and not at all saccharine, as some faith-based novels can be. I will definitely be watching for more from this author.
I really liked this story. It was fresh and not at all saccharine, as some faith-based novels can be. I will definitely be watching for more from this author.
July 13, 2023
Cute read. I listened to an audio version and loved the voices used. Definitely gives the book a different vibe than reading it myself. The story is around Christmas time but the focus is on the two characters and not the season.
December 19, 2023
This one struck as me being like a really good Hallmark movie - no cheese, fairly simple plotline, but Christmasy and with a hero and heroine I can sympathize with. Definitely want to read more from this author.
January 1, 2026
I liked the example of a person who was changed by God trying to show others how God had changed him for the better by using what God had given him to bless others. I also liked the example of how Gabe's example lived out helped Tori see the truth and change her as a result.
July 29, 2017
Great read
A nice, quick read that I could fit into my schedule. I really enjoyed this book and Operation Fireworks and I look forward to reading the other 2 books.
A nice, quick read that I could fit into my schedule. I really enjoyed this book and Operation Fireworks and I look forward to reading the other 2 books.
August 29, 2017
LOVED this book! Quick and easy read, but with a clear message. Sweet and simple romance. This is the first book I have read by this author, and I can't wait to read more.
August 2, 2019
Great book!
Loved the Christmas setting and how the characters turned a bad situation to good! Really enjoyed it! Another great book,Elizabeth!
Loved the Christmas setting and how the characters turned a bad situation to good! Really enjoyed it! Another great book,Elizabeth!
November 29, 2019
If you only have time to read one Christian, Christmas romance this year, read Operation Mistletoe. This very special story will leave you smiling.
August 10, 2020
Refreshing to read this Christian romance. Very sweet and highly recommended.
September 9, 2016
I love to read Christmas stories and this little novella by Elizabeth Maddrey offers plenty of holiday cheer and faith points to garner my interest in the story. Victoria Spencer has had a rash of bad Christmases. From divorcing parents to broken legs, "Tori" has given up on Christmas having any redeeming qualities. She focuses on her journalist career until she's given the task of writing an uplifting article on her former college crush, Gabe Robertson. Gabe is a successful businessman and in December he likes to transform his property into a Christmas wonderland as a way to celebrate the birth of Christ with the community. Through this project Gabe supports Operation Mistletoe, an organization that gives American troops stationed overseas some Christmas joy to fill their lonely holiday. Tori, however, only sees the guy who was self-centered and self-serving in college. How does she write an article with so much prejudice clouding her judgement? Is it possible that Gabe has changed? Is it time to give Christmas another chance?
I'm not sure that Tori overcomes her fear of Christmas by the end of the book, (you'll have to read it to find out why), but it is interesting to watch her overcome her prejudice and bitterness without losing the core of her personality and professionalism. She is a capable, confident woman able to take care of herself despite the misfortunes she's faced. I enjoyed the dynamic of her personality especially when weighed against Gabe's personality, a man who has been transformed by faith. This is a good novella and I'll definitely be reading more of Elizabeth Maddrey's books.
I'm not sure that Tori overcomes her fear of Christmas by the end of the book, (you'll have to read it to find out why), but it is interesting to watch her overcome her prejudice and bitterness without losing the core of her personality and professionalism. She is a capable, confident woman able to take care of herself despite the misfortunes she's faced. I enjoyed the dynamic of her personality especially when weighed against Gabe's personality, a man who has been transformed by faith. This is a good novella and I'll definitely be reading more of Elizabeth Maddrey's books.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews