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Under the Thistle-toe
Two years post-broken heart, Mia Tate has learned how to move on. Mostly. Her B&B, the Thistle Do keeps her busy in the small Scottish-American tourist town of Aberdeen, Illinois. With a dating pool she can count on one hand, though, she's come to terms with the fact that she'll have to learn to love being alone. That is until a six-foot-five, bagpiping hottie shows up on her front step and dares to make her feel again.
As leader of the pipe band Aon Dueg, Finn MacGowan is growing tired of his life of travel. Aberdeen is just the latest stop in a whirlwind life that keeps him moving constantly. In town to work with the high school pipe band for the Christmas parade, the last thing Finn expects is to find is a woman that turns him upside down and a new calling that could change everything. All he has left to do is convince Mia that he's worth taking a second chance at love.
As leader of the pipe band Aon Dueg, Finn MacGowan is growing tired of his life of travel. Aberdeen is just the latest stop in a whirlwind life that keeps him moving constantly. In town to work with the high school pipe band for the Christmas parade, the last thing Finn expects is to find is a woman that turns him upside down and a new calling that could change everything. All he has left to do is convince Mia that he's worth taking a second chance at love.
78 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 11, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 13, 2021
Fun Christmas romance novella! Quick read, sweet escape.
November 6, 2021
I received an ARC of Under the Thistle-toe and I’m just so glad because this is just what I needed to warm my heart and have some fun.
This book tells us the story of Mia (a B&B owner) and Finn (who is leader of a pipe band). When Finn goes to Mia’s town to perform they have an instant attraction. However, Finn will be in town for long. Will it be enough time for them to fall in love and for Finn to stay for good?
This novella is fun and romantic, the dialogs made me laugh and swoon. I recommend it without any doubt!
This book tells us the story of Mia (a B&B owner) and Finn (who is leader of a pipe band). When Finn goes to Mia’s town to perform they have an instant attraction. However, Finn will be in town for long. Will it be enough time for them to fall in love and for Finn to stay for good?
This novella is fun and romantic, the dialogs made me laugh and swoon. I recommend it without any doubt!
December 13, 2021
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU / UNIVERSAL
Running into a wall of muscle at her B&B has just helped make Mia's Christmas much brighter. But will this hot Scot stick around or head back out onto the road with his pipe band after his gig is over?
Short, steamy and fun with another hot Scot and a great heroine - just the thing to liven up your holiday reading.
ARC provided by Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review.
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December 12, 2021
Absolutely beautiful love story
This was such a good book. Who wouldn't want to meet an handsome, talented Irishman. Mia worked and lived at her aunt's B and B when Finn's bagpipe group were scheduled to stay at and do the town's Christmas parade. Finn was also scheduled to teach some talented students at the local school to play with them in the parade. He had never taught so he came a few days earlier than the rest of his group. He found he enjoyed working with the kids and he was falling for Mia. Mia has had some troubles in her life so she's afraid to trust. Read how they get along. Also how her aunt gets along with the group. I think you'll enjoy it as much as I have. Written by Cindy :)
This was such a good book. Who wouldn't want to meet an handsome, talented Irishman. Mia worked and lived at her aunt's B and B when Finn's bagpipe group were scheduled to stay at and do the town's Christmas parade. Finn was also scheduled to teach some talented students at the local school to play with them in the parade. He had never taught so he came a few days earlier than the rest of his group. He found he enjoyed working with the kids and he was falling for Mia. Mia has had some troubles in her life so she's afraid to trust. Read how they get along. Also how her aunt gets along with the group. I think you'll enjoy it as much as I have. Written by Cindy :)
November 15, 2021
Under The Thistle-Toe by is a standalone romance by Mindy Mckinley. It is a heartwarming story that's sweet and low on drama, written in dual pov.
It was insta love for Mia and Finn. The connection they had was sizzling. The steamy scenes were good, well-build up, and sexy.
I love it when authors create a complete world with full characters and even a back story in such a short book, which is what Mindy Mckinley did. This was my first book by her but not my last.
Under The Thistle-toe is a quick, fun, romantic read with a bit of steam. Perfect for getting in the holiday mood.
I received an ARC from the author but am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
December 13, 2021
Forget 5 stars, I give it 10!
Wowza. Every page, every line, every word of this story was perfect. A balanced story, incredible characters, and just the right amount of steam. I loved it
Wowza. Every page, every line, every word of this story was perfect. A balanced story, incredible characters, and just the right amount of steam. I loved it
December 13, 2021
Cute
This is a super cute Christmas-instant-love story. The meet-cute involves a broken cookie and an accent *swoon*. Low drama and a HEA.
This is a super cute Christmas-instant-love story. The meet-cute involves a broken cookie and an accent *swoon*. Low drama and a HEA.
November 29, 2021
Under The Thistle-Toe is a novella by Mindy Mckinley that will get you in the holiday spirit.
Mia works hard running her Bed and Breakfast and doesn’t have much time for anything else.
Finn is in town for a short term gig and is thinking about his future.
When Finn and Mia interact the first time there is chemistry and an instant attraction. Plenty of angst, steam and heat between these two!
A great book with wonderful characters.
I requested an arc and I’m leaving my honest review.
Mia works hard running her Bed and Breakfast and doesn’t have much time for anything else.
Finn is in town for a short term gig and is thinking about his future.
When Finn and Mia interact the first time there is chemistry and an instant attraction. Plenty of angst, steam and heat between these two!
A great book with wonderful characters.
I requested an arc and I’m leaving my honest review.
November 24, 2021
I got an ARC of this book for the promise of an honest review.
I had been craving a way to bring some Christmas cheer into my life a little earlier tan usual this year, but didn't want to commit to Christmas music just yet when I saw the call for ARC readers and read the premise: Holiday steamy romance? I'm down. Bagpipes? Always. Small town B&B? Classic holiday story set up--I'm in!
Mia is on the cusp of 30, running a successful B&B with her Aunt, Nona, which will be hosting the world famous (and drop dead sexy) Scottish pipe & drum band Aon Deug for the holiday celebration in Aberdeen, IL. Finn is the lead piper of said Scottish hotties, who's been feeling less than thrilled about his globe-trotting lifestyle the last few years and feels like putting down roots might be just the thing he's looking for. Eyes meet, cookies collide with sweaters, and the rest is fate.
I love Mindy's writing style. The humor is just right, the banter is fun and flirty, the sex is steamy and passionate. The cleaning based humor was some of my favorite bits, joking about washing dishes and vacuuming as foreplay with the unique situations Mia and Finn found themselves flirting in. As the co-owner of the B&B, it made total sense that when Finn would find her in the kitchen after dinner, she would be washing dishes. I actually laughed out loud at a few of Mia's musings.
I will say, this story did identify for me that insta-love isn't a trope I jive with, personally. Someone's ability to know someone is "the one" after a few days? Not something that my brain has an easy time to believe. I know it happens for some folks in real life, but that's just not my jam. But in context for this story, it makes sense, given the short time Finn and Aon Deug are in Aberdeen (less than a week).
If you're looking for a short, sweet, and steamy holiday romance, this one will definitely scratch that itch!
I had been craving a way to bring some Christmas cheer into my life a little earlier tan usual this year, but didn't want to commit to Christmas music just yet when I saw the call for ARC readers and read the premise: Holiday steamy romance? I'm down. Bagpipes? Always. Small town B&B? Classic holiday story set up--I'm in!
Mia is on the cusp of 30, running a successful B&B with her Aunt, Nona, which will be hosting the world famous (and drop dead sexy) Scottish pipe & drum band Aon Deug for the holiday celebration in Aberdeen, IL. Finn is the lead piper of said Scottish hotties, who's been feeling less than thrilled about his globe-trotting lifestyle the last few years and feels like putting down roots might be just the thing he's looking for. Eyes meet, cookies collide with sweaters, and the rest is fate.
I love Mindy's writing style. The humor is just right, the banter is fun and flirty, the sex is steamy and passionate. The cleaning based humor was some of my favorite bits, joking about washing dishes and vacuuming as foreplay with the unique situations Mia and Finn found themselves flirting in. As the co-owner of the B&B, it made total sense that when Finn would find her in the kitchen after dinner, she would be washing dishes. I actually laughed out loud at a few of Mia's musings.
I will say, this story did identify for me that insta-love isn't a trope I jive with, personally. Someone's ability to know someone is "the one" after a few days? Not something that my brain has an easy time to believe. I know it happens for some folks in real life, but that's just not my jam. But in context for this story, it makes sense, given the short time Finn and Aon Deug are in Aberdeen (less than a week).
If you're looking for a short, sweet, and steamy holiday romance, this one will definitely scratch that itch!
December 21, 2021
I jumped at the chance to read this series, because well there are some of my favorite Authors in it as well as a few new ones that I can promise I will be reading more of. Well thought and put together. Thank you for allowing me to review these wonderful books.
Mia Tate helps her Aunt Nona run the family B&B Thistle-Toe. (Love the name) After having her heart broken Mia decided she would put all her time into the family business, who needed a man when you had your own B.O.B. Right?
Finn MacGowan the description Author Mindy McKinley is absolutely panty melting material. (Fans self) This hero has a huge heart, I was able to grasp that Finn was looking for something more, but was shocked to find it in the little town of Aberdeen, Illinois.
Under the Thistle-Toe is a fun, sexy holiday read that kept me smiling from beginning to end. Mia and Finn they were just magical. There was an added sparkle added to Under the Thistle-Toe, no spoilers here read the book to find out. *Grins*
Rated 5 Stilettos by Deb! Read More. . . https://www.romanceswithalittlekick.c...
Mia Tate helps her Aunt Nona run the family B&B Thistle-Toe. (Love the name) After having her heart broken Mia decided she would put all her time into the family business, who needed a man when you had your own B.O.B. Right?
Finn MacGowan the description Author Mindy McKinley is absolutely panty melting material. (Fans self) This hero has a huge heart, I was able to grasp that Finn was looking for something more, but was shocked to find it in the little town of Aberdeen, Illinois.
Under the Thistle-Toe is a fun, sexy holiday read that kept me smiling from beginning to end. Mia and Finn they were just magical. There was an added sparkle added to Under the Thistle-Toe, no spoilers here read the book to find out. *Grins*
Rated 5 Stilettos by Deb! Read More. . . https://www.romanceswithalittlekick.c...
December 22, 2021
Mia Tate was drawn to handsome Scottish bagpiper Finn MacGowan from the moment he arrived at the bed & breakfast she ran with her Aunt Nona, but after the beating her self-esteem took when her ex-fiance dumped her shortly before their Christmas-themed wedding, she couldn't believe that he'd be attracted to someone like her. Finn was only visiting the Scottish-themed town of Aberdeen, Illinois for a few days to perform in the local holiday parade and help out with the pipe band started by Aberdeen's high school, so she was sure that nothing could possibly come of their relationship anyway. After years of touring with his pipe band, Aon Deug, Finn was tired of the constant grind, though he didn't know what he'd do with his life if he gave up touring. The more time he spent with Mia, the more Finn realized that he was ready to put down roots and build a life with her in Aberdeen, but could he convince Mia to take a chance on love again?
"Under the Thistle-toe" was a funny, sweet story with the perfect amount of heat to it. I've never read anything by Mindy McKinley before (though I've wanted to for a while because her posts on Instagram always amuse me) and really enjoyed her sense of humor. I'm still not a fan of the insta-love trope, which was definitely in evidence here, but I will admit that Mia and Finn were cute together and had a strong, genuine connection. It was very easy for me to cheer them on to their HEA.
I very much enjoyed this story and recommend it for all fans of contemporary/holiday romance and romantic comedy. I will definitely be picking up more of Mindy McKinley's books in the future.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
"Under the Thistle-toe" was a funny, sweet story with the perfect amount of heat to it. I've never read anything by Mindy McKinley before (though I've wanted to for a while because her posts on Instagram always amuse me) and really enjoyed her sense of humor. I'm still not a fan of the insta-love trope, which was definitely in evidence here, but I will admit that Mia and Finn were cute together and had a strong, genuine connection. It was very easy for me to cheer them on to their HEA.
I very much enjoyed this story and recommend it for all fans of contemporary/holiday romance and romantic comedy. I will definitely be picking up more of Mindy McKinley's books in the future.
*Review copy provided by the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 30, 2021
Mia needs a Christmas Miracle for her broken heart and dreams.
It isn't easy to trust and believe in a future after everything she went through but Finn comes into her life like a whirlwind.
He is the hot Scottish bagpiper of the Pipe band. After roaming the world and accomplishing so much he still feels something is missing. A need to set roots.
That's when Mia knocks him of her with adorable smiles and cranberry cookies.
There is insta- love from both ends but will the Christmas miracle be enough for them to have a happily ever after??
It's a good read.
I received an ARC copy for a honest review 😊.
It isn't easy to trust and believe in a future after everything she went through but Finn comes into her life like a whirlwind.
He is the hot Scottish bagpiper of the Pipe band. After roaming the world and accomplishing so much he still feels something is missing. A need to set roots.
That's when Mia knocks him of her with adorable smiles and cranberry cookies.
There is insta- love from both ends but will the Christmas miracle be enough for them to have a happily ever after??
It's a good read.
I received an ARC copy for a honest review 😊.
December 16, 2021
Dressed to Kilt!
Such a fun & festive read! One of the books in the 12 days of Kissmas.
What a better way to mend a broken heart than a swoonworthy bagpiping hottie!
When the leader of a bagpipe band, Finn McGowan, shows up in Mia's small town to perform in the Christmas parade..he finds a woman that turns his world upside down. All he has to do is convince her that second chances are worth waiting for.
Love a Mindy McKinley story! Filled with sweet moments, holiday festivities, and sexy moments...all wrapped up in an amazing HEA!
And the one thought that kept slamming into my mind...What's under that kilt?
Such a fun & festive read! One of the books in the 12 days of Kissmas.
What a better way to mend a broken heart than a swoonworthy bagpiping hottie!
When the leader of a bagpipe band, Finn McGowan, shows up in Mia's small town to perform in the Christmas parade..he finds a woman that turns his world upside down. All he has to do is convince her that second chances are worth waiting for.
Love a Mindy McKinley story! Filled with sweet moments, holiday festivities, and sexy moments...all wrapped up in an amazing HEA!
And the one thought that kept slamming into my mind...What's under that kilt?
November 15, 2021
Fast and steamy, this novella hits all the high notes and even made me cringe at one point. I loved the relatable protagonist that works hard and deserves good things in her life—including a hottie like Finn. Mia runs a bed and breakfast, and this kilted pipe-playing Scottish platter of everything swoon-worthy gives her everything she deserves and more. I highly recommend this novella for a happy steamy short read. It serves up a great plot with good writing. -I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 6, 2021
I do believe it was love at first sight for Mia and Finn or at least attraction at first sight. Even though Finn was there on tour he couldn’t help, but fall in love with Mia. His Scottish accent didn’t hurt either where Mia was concerned. If you’re looking for a short quick read then this one is for you.
December 11, 2021
I loved this book!
Under The Thistle-toe is an InstaLove, holiday romance treat!
Finn is a hot Scottish bagpiper and Mia owns a quaint B&B, the sparks fly when he breaks her cookie ;). Trust me when I say, it’s hot!
I started and finished this book in one sitting, I’m giving it the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
Under The Thistle-toe is an InstaLove, holiday romance treat!
Finn is a hot Scottish bagpiper and Mia owns a quaint B&B, the sparks fly when he breaks her cookie ;). Trust me when I say, it’s hot!
I started and finished this book in one sitting, I’m giving it the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
December 12, 2021
Cute instalove story
This was a super cute instalove story with a smokin hot Scottish man with a kilt and a curvy heroine who knows where she wants to be in life. I enjoy the opposites attract and an aunt who knows just one and how to push her niece to step out of her comfort zone. This relationship bloomed quickly but didn’t lack any passion or details.
Great job!
This was a super cute instalove story with a smokin hot Scottish man with a kilt and a curvy heroine who knows where she wants to be in life. I enjoy the opposites attract and an aunt who knows just one and how to push her niece to step out of her comfort zone. This relationship bloomed quickly but didn’t lack any passion or details.
Great job!
December 14, 2021
4 Stars
This is Mia and Finn’s story. Mia has given up on love after all there are no prospects around her town. That is until a hottie shows up. Finn is tired of traveling. When he checks into the B&B he never expected to want the owner. She tugs on his heart like no other. Can he figure out a way to get what he wants out of life and have her too?
I recommend this book.
This is Mia and Finn’s story. Mia has given up on love after all there are no prospects around her town. That is until a hottie shows up. Finn is tired of traveling. When he checks into the B&B he never expected to want the owner. She tugs on his heart like no other. Can he figure out a way to get what he wants out of life and have her too?
I recommend this book.
December 26, 2022
I loved this story. Finn and Mia are adorable together in this instalove story. Mia is a hardworking, independent B&B owner, and Finn, the bagpipe-playing hunk, is staying for the week. This two fall instantly in love, and their story grows from there. I loved how these two complimented each other. This story gave me Christmas warm fuzzies.
November 4, 2021
Loved this book! It was nice and steamy. I could visualize Mia and Finn and believed every thought in their heads and every word they spoke. I read this book in one sitting....I just couldnt stop before I knew the ending!
November 5, 2021
Great holiday romance!
Mia and Finn meet at Mias inn and fall head over heels in love at first sight! This quick yet cute read brings you romance, love and laughter all at the same time!
If you enjoy romance i think you will absolutely adore this book!
Mia and Finn meet at Mias inn and fall head over heels in love at first sight! This quick yet cute read brings you romance, love and laughter all at the same time!
If you enjoy romance i think you will absolutely adore this book!
November 8, 2021
This heart warming holiday read was quick and sweet, with all the heat. The connection between Finn & Mia was immediate and full off sizzle. I enjoyed every moment of this book.
I received this book as an ARC, and this is my honest review.
I received this book as an ARC, and this is my honest review.
November 9, 2021
I enjoyed it so much! I could picture Mia and Finn all the way through. I've struggled with weight and selfimage my whole life, and I could relate very easily to Mia's insecurities and doubts; and this quick and fun story gave me hope of been wanted. Amazing!
February 18, 2022
Bagpipes done right
Mia is a self conscious BBW who owns a wonderful B&B. Finn is a hawt Scottish bagpipe player that is in town for the annual Christmas Eve parade and staying at the Thistle Do B&B. Sparks fly, but will a misunderstood overheard conversation destroy everything?
Mia is a self conscious BBW who owns a wonderful B&B. Finn is a hawt Scottish bagpipe player that is in town for the annual Christmas Eve parade and staying at the Thistle Do B&B. Sparks fly, but will a misunderstood overheard conversation destroy everything?
September 28, 2022
Absolutely beautiful love story
This book tells a wonderful story about love at first sight at its finest. Finn and Mia are the most beautiful couple. Their story is absolutely beautiful. So heartwarming. I loved every word. And their happy ever after ending is perfection.
This book tells a wonderful story about love at first sight at its finest. Finn and Mia are the most beautiful couple. Their story is absolutely beautiful. So heartwarming. I loved every word. And their happy ever after ending is perfection.
December 30, 2022
So cute
I started reading this to fill out my reading goal but ended up really enjoying it. I'm not the biggest fan of Insta love but you can't expect too much else from a novella. Cute holiday read and would recommend it.
I started reading this to fill out my reading goal but ended up really enjoying it. I'm not the biggest fan of Insta love but you can't expect too much else from a novella. Cute holiday read and would recommend it.
November 30, 2021
Cute, quick holiday read!! Love the multiple HEAs!!
December 11, 2021
Can something be too sexy
I’m fanning myself right now. This was hotter than hot. A great easy read. If pages could steam these would. Just what I needed.
I’m fanning myself right now. This was hotter than hot. A great easy read. If pages could steam these would. Just what I needed.
December 12, 2021
Mia owns a B&B, Finn is a Scottish bagpipe player. When Finn comes to stay at Mia’s B&B for a few days and they are instantly drawn to one another.
This novella was fun. I really liked it!
This novella was fun. I really liked it!
December 13, 2021
This was heartwarming, sweet, sexy and all kinds of feel-good. Mia and Finn are sweet together and I loved how they meet at exactly the right time.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews