Jill Kelly is thankful for all of her blessings, including her co-ownership of the bookstore in Dogwood Creek, Tennessee with bestie Cara Peyton. Bookstore renovations bring Cara’s fiancé and soon-to-be brother-in-law Luke to the bookstore. Jill’s had a secret crush on Luke ever since she’d danced with him at his engagement party. Even after his relationship ended, Jill maintained a distance from him, despite hints from the well-meaning Dogwood Creek Matchmakers. She’d been burned before by a man on the rebound.
Luke Bridger’s completely over his former fiancée, as they had mutually called off their wedding and remained friendly. Helping his brother around the bookstore, he finds himself spending time with Jill Kelly, whom he’s had a secret crush on for months. Unfortunately, she believes he’s on the rebound from his broken engagement and keeps her distance.
When his ex appears to begin stalking them with friendship and smiles, Luke fears Jill will be pushed even further from his life. Their faith, the Matchmakers and a hint of holiday magic may be needed for them to turn their crushes to candy this Christmas.
Small town charm and rediscovered dreams are always in season in Dogwood Creek, Tennessee.
Julie’s Review:
First, Christmas Crush is the final installment in the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers series, a multi-author project featuring Robin Bayne, JoAnn Durgin, Dawn Kinzer, Lisa Prysock, Lori Soard, and me. It was an honor to be part of this series and collaborate with such talented authors.
Now, speaking strictly as a reader, Christmas Crush is the perfect bow tied around the entire series. Robin not only tells a sweet romance featuring Jill and Luke, but also gives readers one last glimpse of the beloved Dogwood Creek couples. What a delightful surprise.
As for Jill and Luke’s story, this was the definition of a comfort read. Robin weaves a relatable journey between Jill, hesitant after heartbreak, and Luke, recovering from a broken engagement. The attraction between them is undeniable, but something always seems to dampen the sparks. Either Jill pulls back, or Luke’s ex unexpectedly reappears.
Of course, the Dogwood Creek Matchmakers know exactly what they’re doing. With a little encouragement, it’s a joy to watch Jill and Luke’s friendship deepen as Christmas Eve and Luke’s brother’s wedding draw near.
Whether you read Christmas Crush as a standalone novella or as the grand finale to the series, you’ll find a heartwarming romance filled with hope, healing, and the charm readers have come to love in Dogwood Creek. I definitely recommend.
