Like It’s Christmas by Diana A. Hicks with giveaway
Like It’s Christmas
Diana A. Hicks
(Winterstorm Village, #1)
Publication date: October 29th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Historical, Romance
At Winterstorm Village, a record-breaking blizzard always ends in a wedding before the season is over. This year promises to bring the mother of all snowstorms, and the residents couldn’t be more excited to see who’s next to tie the knot…
Rhett Parker hates Christmas. When the Mayor of Winterstorm has an unfortunate accident and ends up in a coma, Rhett is left hanging with the proverbial Santa Gift Bag. To make matters worse, the only one who can help him save their money-making tourist season is his office nemesis, Ms. Christmas cheer in a bottle, Parker Cruz.
Parker Cruz, the Mayor’s daughter, is determined to save Christmas now that her dad isn’t there to make it all happen. The only person standing in her way is the town’s Scrooge, the newly appointed Mayor, Rhett Parker.
She’s willing to do whatever it takes to make good on her promise to her dad. So, when a series of unlucky events strike, and the residents start talking about canceling Christmas, Parker does the unthinkable. She agrees to a fake date with her new boss.
Love is always in the air during the holidays at Winterstorm Village. So what if this year it’s all pretend? Or is it?
Excerpt
“Do you need a ride?” Bria placed her hand on my shoulder.
“No. I’ll walk. But thanks.”
“Are you sure?” Rowena asked. “It’s freezing out there.”
“I’ll be fine. Go on.” I waved them good-bye.
As soon as they left, I got on my phone and texted Dad to confirm our dinner tonight. He promptly replied with an enthusiastic yes, an exclamation point, and a string of emotes—see no evil monkey, christmas tree, champagne bottle, and dancing guy. I chuckled at the screen, and finished the last of my espresso martini.
Rhett and Thor had already left when I ambled out of the bar, which put me in an even better mood. I was ready to not see Rhett for the next three weeks. And now, thanks to my besties, I had a solid plan to make this Christmas the best ever.
I strolled down Main Street, smiling every time a flurry brushed my cheek. In the next few days, the entire town’s square would be turned into a winter wonderland. I wanted all the wreaths, garlands and twinkling lights hung and firmly secured before the big storm came through. As I continued down the sidewalk, I made a mental list of what all needed to be done. Maybe Mrs. Dankworth would agree to donate swag to decorate the street lamp posts.
“Are you insane?” Rhett’s deep voice made me stop in my tracks.
When I turned around, I stepped off the curb and lost my balance. “Whoa.” My ankle twisted sideways. For a whole beat, I started to fall face first on a pile of black ice. But before I hit the ground, Rhett yanked me toward him like I weighed nothing.
“It’s freezing out here. What are you doing out and about?”
“What are you doing out and about?” I shot back then pushed against his chest to free myself.
“I was about to get in my car and drive away.” He glared at me then winced, as if what he had to say next pained him. “I’m taking you home.”
“In your dreams. I’m half a mile away.” I made to walk around him.
“Get in the car, Cruz.” His voice boomed in the empty street. “Now.”
I rolled my eyes at him. He had no right to get so bossy with me. For one, we were not in the office. And two, he wasn’t my boss. I worked for the Mayor, my dad. Rhett’s smug smile and high-handedness could bite me.
“Good night, Rhett.”
“Cruz.” He gripped my elbow, and for a split second his eyes softened. “Don’t put yourself in danger just to spite me. It’s cold and slippery out there.”
Author Bio:
Diana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of steamy romantic suspense and science-fiction romance.
When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.
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