AUTHOR: JoAnn Durgin
DATE: 2012
PUBLISHER: Pelican Ventures, LLC
STARS: *****
Jacob Marston, Starlight, Iowa's hometown hero, made a long-ago promise to the Lord: he won't kiss a woman until he knows she's "the one." Now at age twenty-eight, the rugged firefighter questions if it'll ever happen. Then, he meets his best friend's sister, Julia Sinclair, and Jake believes he's found the woman of his dreams. But she's promised to another.
When Julia makes an unexpected confession on Christmas Day, Jake shares his secret with her, and it looks as though happily-ever-after will make a holiday appearance. But what will she think when she discovers his vow?
Somehow, everyone in the tiny town of Starlight suddenly learns Jake’s secret, and he's instantly transformed from town hero to laughingstock. Did Julia reveal his secret? Can Jake forget the humiliation and find his way under the mistletoe to share a forever kiss with Julia?
Do you believe in love at first sight? Author JoAnn Durgin does, and her stories are convincing me. In this sweet Christmas novella, Jake is a wonderful hero, a firefighter who loves his family ties and hometown. His awkwardness around women made me smile and fall in love with him a little. When he sees Julia for the first time in many years, the pull is irresistible – until Jake finds out that Julia is already engaged.
Faith plays a big part of this story, both in the lives of the hero and heroine, but also in how the fine folks of Starlight, Iowa, interact and care for one another. This story does not preach, but it shows beautifully how faith in God leads to hearts opening. In this case, two hearts in particular.
I loved this story and look forward to reading the rest of this three-part series. The characters are realistic and likable, and the bits of humor sprinkled into the story make it a joy to read. Meet Me Under The Mistletoe earns five stars.