Welcome to Mistletoe Mashups!
We're mashing it up and dishing it out—mashing and dishing what? Whatever the Romance Gems Authors wanted to share. It may surprise us as much as you! It might be a Giveaway...or a Christmas memory...or how our holidays have changed over the years...or who knows?
There really is a giveaway—not 1 but 2!!—at the end so leave a comment with your email addy to be entered. Giveaway open until midnight, Dec. 20. Winner to be announced Dec. 21.
By the way, all of these books featured in this post make great gifts for your reading friends. Click on the title, and you'll be whisked away to the book's Amazon webpage. Buy for yourself, or look for Buy For Others in the right sidebar and click to buy to give to a friend.
Happy Mistletoe Mashups!
Lots of Holiday Romances by Joan ReevesIs the new Chief of Police the perfect man to mend Cassie's broken heart?
Happy Holidays from Joan!
For me, Christmas starts in the summer when I begin writing the holiday stories I've contracted for the year. Often, when it's over 100 degrees F. outside, I'm in my office writing about blue northers that herald the arrival of winter in Texas.
You'll find my Christmas stories as diverse as the Romantic Thriller Dead Heat (It's a die-hard Christmas for Sabrina Snow!), the ultra-sexy Luv4Ever (free on Kindle), the Romantic Comedy Nobody's Cinderella, this year's short story Stuck on the Naughty List, and so many more holiday stories. Enjoy all the little stories you'll find below!
Today, Tomorrow, Always by Peggy JaegerCan a simple affair with an end date be just the thing to brighten their lives?
Happy Holidays from Peggy!
I'd always wanted ROCK'EM SOC'EM Robots as a kid and had put it on my Santa list for 4 years. Never got it because Mom told me Santa only gives girl presents to girls and that was a "boy" present.
Fast forward 35 years, and I'm telling this story around the dinner table at my in-laws on Christmas Eve.
The next morning, under the tree was a big box with my name on it and "Sorry this took so long, Love Santa" written on the tag. It was ROCK'EM SOC'EM Robots! After hearing the story, Hubby ran to KIDS'R US and bought it for me. Love that man so so so much!
Not So blue Christmas by Bonnie EdwardsTake one Christmas grouch. Add one vivacious widow…And you get a second chance at love.
Happy Holidays from Bonnie!
The season has changed for me many times since my typical childhood. We moved across country and for years, holidays were just the four of us. Two parents and two children.
Now, we've got grandsons, and wonderful in-laws. We all share the holidays, taking turns and enjoying the mayhem of six little boys between 3 and 7.
Brede by Connie Vines!Trouble is something hard-edged rancher, Brede Kristensen, knows all about. What he hadn't bargained for was the woman he’d vowed to protect finding a way into the lonely corners of his heart.
Happy Holidays from Connie
Christmas has changed for me as my sons are grown men, and I am enjoying my role as Grammie.
Love, laughter, baking cookies, and sharing stories passed down through generations. Merry Christmas!
A Groovy Christmas is a heartwarming Christmas tale like no other.
Happy Holidays from Jan!
My 12 year old grandson found out about Santa Claus this year. A little magic has gone out of Christmas for him. I remember how exciting Christmas morning was for me as a child and for my own children when I played Santa.
One year my daughter got a saddle from Santa. Not the horse, but at least a saddle. Without little children in the house, Christmas morning is not as magical. However, I still love buying gifts for the grandchildren. It’s fun to see them open a package with a book in it, sit there under the tree, and start reading it. That’s still a bit of magic.
When a serial killer strikes too close to home can forbidden love blossom?
Although the Avalanche Killer has been caught, Remy Colton fears the criminal’s shadow still looms over Roaring Springs. And falling for his brother’s ex, Vanessa Fisher, definitely doesn’t help matters. But when someone begins to target Vanessa, Remy vows to protect her at all costs! Even if that means nailing down a ruthless threat—once and for all.
Happy Holidays from Karen Whiddon!
Christmas has changed for me a lot over the years. Once, we had a large family gathering and meal. Usually on Christmas Eve.
Now, with both my parents gone, it's shrunk down to just my immediate family. We still have a meal, though we go out on Christmas Eve now. And we still celebrate, even though we miss those who aren't with us.
An injured Marine, an introverted loner, two orphaned children needing a home. Can they create a perfectly imperfect family?
Happy Holidays from Kari!
When my children were young and all at home, we used to make decorating a family event. We'd all go out to pick out the tree. My husband would cut the bottom and put it in the base, then drag it in the house.
I'd put all the lights on. And my children got to add all the ornaments. Many of them were ones they'd made in school or scouts. I also had all the ones my mother had gotten over the years, plus her grandmother's. Many of which were over a hundred years old.
Now my kids are grown and moved out. I live in a very small place, so don't have room for a large tree. I put out a few things, but mostly I enjoy going to my daughter's where her children have decorated the tree. I get to see their joy now in the whole process.
A romantic suspense holiday novella featuring Christmas trees, baking cookies, gifts, child abductions and religious cults. You know, light and fluffy, but don't worry, there is a HEA and NO cliffhanger!
Happy Holidays from Satin!
Fifteen years ago, my husband and I got married on December 18th. Ever since then, the holiday season has taken on extra special meaning. This year, we'll be celebrating our anniversary with an extended weekend in Montreal. Because we don't have kids, our Christmas mornings tend to be quiet. About mid-morning, we usually go to my sister's house to watch our niece and nephew open presents, then come back to enjoy a nice meal at home.
The MacLellan sisters have vowed to never get married. But that was before their beloved Gran sent them an enchanted heirloom wedding dress.
Happy Holidays from Lucinda!
When my girls were small Christmas was a busy time for us all. With the hustle and bustle of family meals, gifts, all the cooking and traveling to see other relatives we were exhausted at the end of the holiday season. Sometimes I think we needed a nice long vacation after our holiday vacation.
Fast forward twenty years: Now I use the market to get relief in the kitchen, who says dinner rolls have to be homemade? When my family comes for Christmas Eve we don't exchange gifts. We actually just enjoy a nice dinner where everyone has brought something to share. We eat off paper plates and sit and talk over coffee and dessert. It is a more relaxed an enjoyable evening for us all.
Someday when my girls have children I'm sure we'll be back into the crazy swing. But for now I'm cherishing each special holiday with the ones I love.
Three Regency novellas, including Christmas at Farley Manor, Best Novella of 2011.
Happy Holidays from Cheryl!
With children now grown, Christmas has drastically changed for us. Typically -- but not always -- our Christmas gift to our adult kids is a family trip at Christmas, which is a time when both our sons can more easily get away from demanding jobs.
We've spent three Christmases in Europe in the last five years. It sure takes the stress out of shopping! Buying for guys is soooo hard.
See why readers are falling in love with the Mason brothers in 19th century Arizona, as each brother meets that special woman destined to be his bride. Contains a "not-for-sale" prequel to this popular sweet western historical series.
Happy Holidays from Kathleen!
With no little ones in the house, Christmas is all about time together, a leisurely champagne brunch, a walk on the beach, and making dinner together. This year we are having fondue.
Somewhere in there gifts are exchanged, but there is far less emphasis on that aspect of the day. I treasure these times outside of our busy lives and hope my adult children always consider “Mom’s House” the place to spend Christmas.
She’s looking to escape her man troubles. Instead, she finds the man of her dreams. There’s only one problem – he’s dead.
Happy Holidays from Kathryn!
When our daughter was young, we put away the fancy glass ornaments, opting for sturdier, kid-friendly decorations. We wanted her to enjoy trimming the Christmas tree as much as we did. Fast forward to her being older.
Themed trees came into being, and our girl took an active part in creating a special tree each year. That part remains. This year’s tree theme is “woodland creatures/rustic cabin,” and it’s stunning! However, we’ve reverted to unbreakable ornaments again, because… PUPPY!
Forbidden kisses with the sheriff weren't a part of the schoolteacher's plans, but Alice Parker can't help herself. When handsome Conner Lonnigan betrays her, she refuses to forgive him, but he won't give up and will do anything to win her heart back.
Happy Holidays from Kara!
I love Christmas. Mostly because we get to spend time with extended family. However, I've discovered that I'm in a transition period. My oldest daughter is in college. I'm jumping the gun, I know, but I'm looking ahead and seeing a future where I'm the grandparent and the big party happens at my house.
Can you hear my knees knocking? No? They are, and I feel like I need to start thinking about this so I can be as prepared as possible. A little early? Yes. But...well...I think my OCD self won't let me not draft strategy. So, Merry Christmas and I think I'm going to start looking for a maid!
There’s work to be done in Christmas Town. Your favorite Harlequin Heartwarming authors are rebuilding a carousel in time for Christmas.
Happy Holidays from Liz!
I always think Christmas will be different. Each year, I plan to spend less, organize better, say no more often, and have a relaxing holiday.
However, when the season rolls around, I’m right back in the stores, my office is a maze of wrapping paper and misplaced rolls of cellophane tape, and the word no doesn’t have a place in my vocabulary.
So, what hasn’t changed is that the holiday’s never relaxing. What has changed is that I’m good with it—at the end of the day, it’s just the way I like it.
When he steals his enemy's bride out of vengeance, what will happen when they fall in love? Highland Destiny: Not even time itself can keep them apart.
Happy Holidays from Laura!
Christmas has changed a lot over the past couple years. I've had children grow to teenagers, and a baby grow into a big kid. It's crazy to see how even the simple act of buying Christmas presents changes. Teens no longer want toys, and the little one wants what the teens get, even if she is only 6.
We try to do a couple service projects during Winter Break to show the kids that Christmas is not about gifts, and this is new, because as the kids get older, I don't want them to become spoiled brats.
We keep our celebrations simple now. We enjoy good food, good friends, and good family, but we try not to be extravagant. We're aiming this year for a happy and joyful Christmas that stays simple.
Two stories from USA Today Bestselling author Karen Kelley that will have you laughing out loud one minute, and fanning yourself the next. Deemed "Romances Rising Funny Girl" by NYT bestselling author Sharon Sala.
Happy Holidays from Karen!
Here's a decorating tip for our Readers. Don’t try to do everything by yourself.
Bring the whole family in, turn off all cell devices, put on Christmas music, and reminisce about Christmas past. While everyone helps decorate cookies or make candy or decorate the house, they'll also be making memories of Christmas present to share in the future.
Mistletoe Mashups Giveaway #1
For a free copy of Snowflakes & Christmas Kisses, leave a comment about anything holiday related, along with your email address.
This box set includes Just One Look, a rollicking romantic comedy by Joan Reeves.
Open until midnight Dec. 20. Winner announced Dec. 21.
Mistletoe Mashups Giveaway #2
For a free copy of Love, Christmas 1: the Songs of your Heart, leave a comment about anything holiday related, along with your email address.
But Wait, There's More
Of course, there's more. There's CANDY CANE KISSES, our December Rafflecopter!
Remember to enter CANDY CANE KISSES. For all the details, visit our Monthly Giveaway page. Or, go straight to the ENTRY FORM.
All these Christmas books, so very cool!
ReplyDeleteI loved the books, and I loved reading each author's remarks.
DeleteMy holiday list is growing! I absolutely love the title and cover of your book! It sounds so good. Can't wait to read it and many more!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Karen.
DeleteI love this post! Like Karen says, the list is growing...
ReplyDeleteAnd growing and growing... My TBR looks like a digital Leaning Tower of Pisa.
DeleteWe are certainly a prolific gaggle of writers!
ReplyDeleteHey, I wonder what the collective noun for a bunch of writers would be? A gaggle of geese, a murder of crows, a pride of lions, and so on. I suggest we call a group of writers, a SCRIBBLE OF WRITERS.
DeleteWonderful to read about other families' Christmas celebrations.
ReplyDeleteYes, so many great stories.
DeleteI enjoy reading Christmas books anytime of the year! tWarner419@aol.com
ReplyDeleteHey, you're my favorite kind of reader! I'm like that too. I don't care if a book is set at Christmas, and it's July, or it's set in August, and I'm reading it in January. Thanks for entering the giveaway.
DeleteYou guys are always so interesting! Loved reading a little tidbit about everyone.
ReplyDeleteMe too, Laura.
Deletefun holiday books
ReplyDeletebn100candg at hotmail dot com
Thanks. Hope you found some you like. Thanks for entering the giveaway.
DeleteLOVE reading about our Gems and all their great books!
ReplyDeleteI did too as I formatted this post.
DeleteLove reading all genres of books deborahdumm(at)yahoo(dot)com
ReplyDeleteGlad you stopped by, Deborah. We are a group of 24 authors, and we write every sub-genre of romance from suspense to sweet. Bet you'll find some books and authors you'll love. Thanks for entering my giveaway. Happy Holidays!
DeleteI love reading Christmas books through out the year. Thank you for sharing. Chevygirl901@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteGlad you stopped by. I too read books with Christmas settings throughout the year—and write them too. Bet you'll find some books and authors you'll love. Thanks for entering my giveaway. Happy Holidays!
DeleteThank you for sharing all these great books!
ReplyDeletemsredk at aol dot com
My pleasure! Love recommending good books—especially romance. Thanks for entering my giveaway. Happy Holidays!
DeleteI've finished shopping but, I still have to do wrapping. How do I get started??
ReplyDeletelkish77123 at gmail dot com
By reading great blog posts on Romance Gems and shopping for books, of course. Seriously, you're asking the wrong person. I have not yet begun to shop!! Thanks for entering my Giveaway. Be sure and enter our Raffecopter too.
DeleteTwo giveaways, two comments, right?? I hope you all have a great holiday season and stay healthy. Did you get your flu shots yet?
ReplyDeletelkish77123 at gmail dot com
No, only one was needed, but I appreciate this second comment too. It shows you're a conscientious woman who takes care of the details. I hope you have a great holiday too. After a long absence, I started working out again 2 days ago, and I'm so stiff and sore I can hardly move! *LOL* Happy Holidays, Linda Kish!
DeleteThanks for being patient with my announcing winners. Like many of you, I've been drowning in Holiday Frenzy. To randomly select the winners, I used https://miniwebtool.com/random-name-picker/. The winner of SNOWFLAKES AND CHRISTMAS KISSES is tWarner419 and the winner of LOVE, CHRISTMAS 1 is msredk. Congratulations, Readers! Your Amazon Gift Card for your respective box sets is on its way to your Inbox. Happy Reading and Happy Holidays!
ReplyDelete