Series: Virgin River, #8 & #12
Publisher: Harlequin Mira
Released: October 28, 2014
Source: Review copy from NetGalley

Together for the first time in one volume, two classic holiday stories — plus a bonus novella! — from #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr.

‘Tis the season for family, friendship and the thrill of a holiday romance…

UNDER THE CHRISTMAS TREE

With snow falling over the redwood forests, secluded Virgin River is the ideal place to spend the holidays. Each year, the close-knit community gathers in the town square to decorate and light a massive tree. Carols are sung, hot chocolate is shared—and a surprise left under the Christmas tree is about to bring two special people together!

MIDNIGHT CONFESSIONS

Holiday kisses don’t end with Christmas—there’s still the New Year’s Eve party at Jack’s Bar to attend. Locals and newcomers alike find themselves eager for that special countdown…and that midnight kiss.

So join us in Virgin River this year, where Robyn Carr’s trademark humor, warmth and sincerity will have you celebrating the festive season in your favorite mountain town.the festive season in your favorite mountain town.

I always enjoy visiting the cozy mountain town of Virgin River, my favorite fictional place. ‘TIS THE SEASON is a compilation of two holiday stories from the series. If you’re new to the Virgin River series, I might not recommend jumping in with this book. But if you’re a regular, you’ll enjoy catching up with favorite characters and meeting some new ones.

Under the Christmas Tree: An abandoned box of newborn puppies brings Nate, the hot, young town veterinarian, together with a softhearted salon owner named Annie. Annie was recently burned by a real loser, and she doesn’t think guys like Nate, who used to date young Southern Cal beauties, would be interested in her. Luckily, they had the squirmy little puppies to keep bringing them together. I think Annie’s obsession with the puppies was a bit excessive, but overall this was a sweet, cozy Christmas romance. 3 Stars.

Midnight Confessions: Of the two Virgin River stories, this was my favorite. Nate’s niece, Sunny, is visiting for the holidays, and he takes her to the annual New Year’s Eve party at Jack’s bar. Yikes, Sunny has some major emotional baggage and wants to stay far away from men. Drew, a med student, is smitten with Sunny, even though she’s cold, cold, cold. He’s determined to use his charm to chip away Sunny’s icy exterior. I enjoyed this couple’s romance, and wondered if they ever got their own full-length book! 4 Stars.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.