Just in time for the holidays, What happens Under the Mistletoe is a delightful collection of short stories by 4 of my favorite historical romance authors.
Each story pays homage to the magic of mistletoe and how it gives those who stand under it the excuse to kiss someone they want to kiss and normally wouldn't have the opportunity to. These are all Regency era stories. Of course men and women who were not married couldn't touch each other in public, much less kiss. So, Mistletoe provided the perfect cover to steal kisses and not face censure for it!
The kiss in Sabrina Jeffries' story The Heiress and the Hothead takes place due to a case of mistaken identity. But the two kissers end up being very glad the mix up occurs. They are from two different worlds. As they story starts they are also, seemingly, on opposing sides of a hot button issue. But they can't deny the feelings their kiss evoke. Soon, despite all of the difference that should divide them, they find their mutual attraction an irresistible force. They also discover that reputations are not always fairly earned and that what lies underneath a carefully constructed facade is worth making some compromises for.
The Scottish countryside sets the scene for the two kisser's in Karen Hawkins' Twelve Kisses are are two lovers who were separated a decade ago by a miscommunication and foolish pride. One of them decides that the mistletoe provides the perfect opportunity to test the waters and uses a little subterfuge to get the kiss they have dreamed about for so many years. The plans goes awry and in the process of trying to straighten out the mess caused by it, they are forced to confront their feelings for each other and decide whether their pride is more important than their once in a lifetime love.
Candace Camp's By Any Other Name is also set in Scotland. These two don't have their first kiss under the mistletoe, but that doesn't stop these two kissers from getting into the Yultide spirit! That first kiss sparks an awareness that only grows as these two join forces to bring our heroine's brother home for Christmas. Their adventures which include midnight excursions to seedy brothels and full out pub brawls are hilarious. And when they decide that they want to be partners in every sense of the word, their kiss under the mistletoe seals the deal!
In Sweetest Regret, Meredith Duran introduces us two beautiful characters who thought they had lost at the game of hearts they played with each other when the first met two years ago. Their bittersweet reunion starts with a kiss under the mistletoe that reminds them both of what they lost. These two lovers soon realize that their entire relationship has been manipulated by someone who seeks to use them for professional gain. When they decide that their love is worth risking careers, fortune and even family for, they are unstoppable. This is a delightful story of second chances and self acceptance.
These were short but very satisfying reads. It's amazing how much our characters accomplished in these stories. These will put you in the holiday spirit and make you believe in Christmas miracles!
